ROCK FALLS, ILLINOIS (October 22, 2026) — Help us showcase the beauty, charm, and unique spirit of the Rock Falls area! We're inviting photographers of all skill levels to enter our 2027-2028 Rock Falls Area Visitor Guide Front Cover Photo Contest. Capture the scenic views, local attractions, community events, outdoor adventures, and special moments that make the Rock Falls area a wonderful place to visit and call home. The winning photograph will be featured on the cover of our upcoming Visitor Guide, showcasing our community to visitors near and far. Share your favorite view of the Rock Falls area and help us tell our story through your lens!
How to Participate:
1. Entrants must live, work or attend school in the Rock Falls/Sterling area.
2. Photos must be taken in Rock Falls or Sterling between January 2026 and December 2026.
3. Photos must be submitted by January 1, 2027. No late submissions will be allowed.
4. Submit your photo(s) electronically via this link: https://bit.ly/2027VGPhotoContest (maximum of three photos).
5. Each photo entry must include photographer's name, phone number, and e-mail address.
6. If your photo is chosen for the cover, let us know if you'd prefer to stay anonymous.
Photography Guidelines:
1. Photos must be of high-resolution quality.
2. Photo must be full color, without the use of extreme filters or editing.
3. Format must be JPEG or PNG.
Rights and Permissions:
1. Participants must have permission from any person pictured in the photo.
2. You must obtain permission from a parent in the case of minors.
3. The City of Rock Falls is not responsible for obtaining subject permissions.
4. Photos may be reproduced by the City of Rock Falls.
5. Once submitted, the entrant grants reproduction rights to the City of Rock Falls.
What we are looking for:
1. Iconic and recognizable landmarks (ex Rock River, Hennepin Canal, Rock Falls Liberty Bell, Veterans Park, RB&W District Park, etc).
2. Engaging activities and experiences (ex. community events and festivals).
3. Breathtaking natural beauty (ex parks, birds, etc).
4. Local food and drink (ex Restaurants, food trucks, etc)
5. Authentic local life and people (ex you, your neighbor, your friends, etc)
Select winning photo will receive cash prize!
To enter your photo(s), please submit using this link: https://bit.ly/2027VGPhotoContest or stop by Rock Falls Tourism office at 603 W 10th Street, Rock Falls, Illinois, weekdays 8AM-5PM.
