Are you a shutterbug with a knack for rural snapshots that capture the joy of farm living? If you have a wonderful photo and a membership to the Illinois Farm Bureau, the farm organization wants you to enter its photo contest which runs from Dec. 1, 2007 until May 1, 2008. Winners will be announced in June 2008.

"Now's the chance for members to both express their inner-artist and show their love for agriculture," says IFB Photo Services Director Ken Kashian. "Simply take a photo that captures the image and spirit of Farm Bureau in Illinois, or agriculture in general."

Prizes will be awarded in two age categories - adults 18 and over, and contestants 17 and younger. The first place winner in the contest will win $250; second place will win $150; and third place wins $100.

One entry per person is permitted. The contest requires a hard copy of the photo. No electronic files will be accepted. All photos must have been taken in the state of Illinois during 2006 through 2008. All entries must include the date the photo was taken, the location, and a brief description.

Winning photos, including honorable mentions, will be published in FarmWeek, Partners, and on the IFB website.

Employees (and immediate family members) of Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Agricultural Association affiliated companies are not eligible for the contest.

Entries must be postmarked by May 1, 2008. For an entry form and a complete list of contest rules, go to www.ilfb.org and click on Ken Kashian Photo Gallery, or call IFB Photo Services at 309-557-2293.