The Winners of 13th Annual Photography Contest
The 13th Annual KBLA Photo Contest showcased an incredible collection of lake moments submitted by our talented KBLA members. From tranquil morning reflections to lively summer gatherings, each image beautifully captured the spirit and natural charm of life on Kahshe and Bass Lakes.
This year’s contest featured entries in five categories, including our Specialty Category for 2025: “Oh Canada.” The theme celebrated the beauty of our lakes and our shared love for Canada, with entries proudly featuring a Maple Leaf and/or the Canadian flag.
All winning images will receive a prize and be featured on the KBLA website, alongside past contest winners.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to our judges, photographers Bruce Gibson and Randy Craig, whose artistic eye and long-standing passion for lake photography continue to inspire us all.
And of course, sincere thanks to everyone who participated. Your photos tell the story of our vibrant lakeside community.
Winners of the 13th Annual KBLA Photography Contest
To see the full list and winning shots of the 2025 photo contest, click here.
Landscape
First Place: Fritz Vatter
(Judges' comments: A beautiful winter image with great composition and lighting.)
Second Place: Lauren A. Koenig
(Judges' comments: An ideal composition and lighting that captures the beauty of the
Canadian Shield, our pines and another stunning sunset.)
Third Place: Michael Crosby
(Judges' comments: Great composition that captures the beauty and calm vibes of
our lakes.)
Wildlife
First Place: Austin Ball
(Judges' comments: A great capture… at duck eye level. Nicely done. Excellent exposure and
composition.)
Second Place: Yvonne Hawke
(Judges' comments: Another great shot at the eye level of this grasshopper – perfect
lighting and composition.)
Third Place: Sandy Belovari
(Judges' comments: The theme to these winners is to get down to their level and capture
the image without disrupting them.)
Lake Life
First Place: Michael Crosby
(Judges' comments: A beautiful composition that captures the essence of our lakes … from
sunrise to sunset.)
Second Place: Julia McAulay
(Judges' comments: A great shot of many of our happy Lake Life moments … a dock, a
fishing net, a Muskoka Chair … and a relaxed pup.)
Third Place: Susan Mueller
(Judges' comments: Wonderful composition that captures the essence of family fun
along with a gorgeous sunset.)
Lake Kids
First Place: Marlene Clune
(Judges' comments: This image perfectly captures the beauty and excitement of being a
new cottager on our lakes. The subject, composition and lighting are
ideal.)
Second Place: Alison Holder
(Judges' comments: A great action shot that embraces fun lake activities for young cottagers.)
Third Place: Ryan Swirla
(Judges' comments: Excellent exposure and composition that captures the happiness of a
special moment.)
Yearly Theme (Oh Canada)
First Place: Cheryl Schinkel
(Judges' comments: A subtle Canadian flag with a background that celebrates the beauty of
our lakes this summer.)
Second Place: Dave Whittaker
(Judges' comments: A proud pooch parading the Canadian flag – Nice!)
Third Place: Terri Holden
(Judges' comments: A happy Canadian who embraces nature’s gifts.)
The 2026 KBLA Photo Contest
The 2026 KBLA Photo Contest is now open and you can enter here. Start capturing those special Kahshe and Bass Lake moments all autumn and winter long—from misty mornings to sparkling snowfalls. We can’t wait to see your creativity shine in next year’s contest.