The results of the Kid’s-Eye View of the Park Photo Contest are in, and win or lose, the contest served its purpose well: not only did it encourage youngsters (6–17) to explore every nook and cranny of Balboa Park’s vast cultural playground, but it produced a number of stunning images that show old dogs new ways of seeing the Park’s historic buildings, flora, and fauna.

 

While I congratulate the six winners and tip my cap to the runner ups and all other participants, I would like to highlight a few submissions that a fellow diminutive creature like me can especially relate to.

 

This photo by second-place winner Emily (age 6) reminds me of how essential urban parklands are for sustaining the wide variety of critters whose habitats are dwindling. I also think I know this squirrel personally, though it’s hard to tell because they all look the same to me. 

 

 In Ryan’s (age 13) description of his photo, he points out, “when you look closely you will see a teddy bear riding on a pony.” Now if that isn’t inspiration to look for the all nuances in the beauty that surrounds us and to imagine, I don’t know what is!

 

This great shot from Leah (age 6) shows my readers what I often see when I look up as I go about my business in the Park:

 

Last but not least, Natalie (age 6) took the words right out of my mouth when she explained her photo by simply stating, “I just wanted to walk this way!”

 

Be sure to check out the contest winners page to view all the winning submissions as well as the runner ups.