Grand prize winner Jaidyn Backus was drawn to take the photo when she saw the rock stack at Salt Creek. “I loved seeing how they made the rocks balance so flawlessly.”

Grand prize winner Jaidyn Backus was drawn to take the photo when she saw the rock stack at Salt Creek. “I loved seeing how they made the rocks balance so flawlessly.”

Local Talent Featured in Proudly PNW Calendar from First Fed

Each year, First Fed holds a photo contest to select stunning images for our next year’s calendar. The contest is open to anyone who loves taking photos, from amateur to professional.

Whether or not they submit a photo, community members can participate by voting on their favorite entries. The photo with the most votes at the close of the contest automatically becomes our “fan favorite” winner.

Proudly PNW

First Fed is proudly Pacific Northwest, just like the customers and communities we serve. Our annual calendar celebrates life in the PNW, from the incredible landscapes to classic landmarks. This year’s new contest photo categories, like animals, boats, and road trips, all still fall under the larger theme of showcasing the region.

In addition to the highlighting the natural elements of the PNW, the calendar also creates an opportunity to celebrate local artists.

“The PNW inspires me, and I feel a sense of awe and gratitude when I’m in nature,” said Hayley Powell, whose winning photo will represent the month of February in the calendar. “I love that on any given day I can be at the ocean, on a mountain, or deep in the forest. There are endless places to explore.”

Photo credit: Hayley Powell

Photo credit: Hayley Powell

Creating a Winning Photograph

“We were amazed by the quality and variety of images this year,” said Karen Lewis, Marketing Director. “It was extremely difficult to choose just 14 out of over 1,200 entries.”

Sometimes capturing the perfect photo comes down to lucky timing, while other times photographers plan out their shots ahead of time in great detail. In either case, it takes an artistic eye to get the exposure and framing just right to elevate the moment.

Powell, a photo hobbyist from Port Angeles, was loading up a van on Hurricane Ridge when the beauty of the sunset overwhelmed her.

“I was in total awe,” recalled Powell. “Luckily I had my good camera with me that day!”

For Isaac Gautschi, a professional photographer from Sequim, his winning photo for the month of December was a combination of planning and fortunate weather. Spontaneously taking advantage of a clear night, Isaac hiked up a mountain with his friend to capture his stunning shot.

“I had my friend hold very still during a 15-second exposure in order to capture the dramatic Milky Way lights behind her,” said Gautschi. “The PNW is such a unique and beautiful place to photograph any time of day.”

Photo credit: Isaac Gautschi, www.isaacgautschi.com

Photo credit: Isaac Gautschi, www.isaacgautschi.com

Get Your Calendar

The calendars are offered for free, as they are a celebration of our natural environment and the talent in our community.

“The images bring people together,” said Lewis. “No matter what’s happening in the world, we can appreciate and celebrate the beauty and nature around us.”

The calendar will be available for pick up in First Fed branches and community locations starting on Monday, November 22, 2021. Until then, you can preview all the winning photographs online here.

First Fed is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. In 2021, First Fed was recognized as a Best Bank by Forbes magazine and a Best Workplace by Puget Sound Business Journal. Learn more about entry level roles and mid-career opportunities at ourfirstfed.com/careers

The news and editorial staff of Sound Publishing, Inc. had no role in the preparation of this post. The views and opinions expressed in this sponsored post are those of the advertiser and do not reflect those of Sound Publishing, Inc.

Sound Publishing, Inc. does not accept liability for any loss or damages caused by the use of any products, nor do we endorse any products posted in our Marketplace.

More in Local Marketplace

First Fed offers the new Washington Covenant Homeownership Program, designed to expand homeownership for certain minorities in Washington State.
More paths to homeownership than you might expect

For many, buying a home feels out of reach. High prices, down… Continue reading

Guests can indulge in a range of amenities, including a seasonal outdoor pool. Photo courtesy of Pleasant Beach Village.
Pleasant Beach Village: A hidden gem on Bainbridge Island

From curated stays to memorable meals, find it all just a ferry ride away from Seattle

If you’re 18 or older and eager to make a real difference, those interested are encouraged to contact humanresources@cityofpa.us and take the first step toward a rewarding career as a 9-1-1 dispatcher.
It’s more than a career, it’s a calling. Become a 9-1-1 dispatcher with Peninsula Communications.

Backed by experienced staff, you’ll receive extensive training to excel in a fast-paced environment.

Uniting music and cinema to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the film Birdman, Grammy-winning composer and drummer Antonio Sánchez’s live performance will be transposed in an original format featuring his improvised solo drum composition synced with the film’s screening. Photo courtesy of Field Hall.
Grammy-winning Antonio Sánchez brings Birdman Live to Field Hall

Drummer performs live score for the iconic film

Honoring veterans with compassion, Sequim Valley Funeral Chapel guides families through military honors, memorial planning, and pre-arrangements.
Clallam and Jefferson County funeral home offers compassionate support in veteran funeral planning

Funeral home shares key information for veterans and their families on funeral arrangements

Wanting to maximize your savings this year? Here are some effective ways to get started. Courtesy First Fed
Take control of your savings in the New Year

The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to reassess… Continue reading

Dr. Helena Soomer-Lincoln of Fairy Tale Dental reflects on her childhood in Soviet-era Estonia and remembers her father would say “Estonia will be independent one day.” And then, in 1991, I witnessed the revolution. I saw Russian tanks turn away. That moment gave me a sense of hope and purpose that has stayed with her. Photo courtesy of Fairy Tale Dental.
Childhood experience overseas inspires local dentist to create and share innovative dental technology

New patented technology offers game-changing alternative to dentures

The holidays can be a difficult time for those who have lost a loved one.
Grief and the holidays

Strategies to navigate the holiday season when you’ve lost a loved one

Designed especially for children 17 and younger, with a minimum balance requirement as low as $1, a First Savings account is accessible to everyone. Courtesy First Fed
A meaningful gift for your kids: First Savings Account

The holiday season is upon us – a time for joy, giving… Continue reading

Tickets for Field Hall’s Winter/Spring 2025 season, which includes a performance by the Dover Quartet, are available now. Roy Cox photo /courtesy Field Hall
Local talents and global stars to shine this season at Field Hall

Port Angeles arts event center unveils Winter/Spring 2025 program

Breaking the stigma surrounding death and planning for such life events, Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Chapel shares important details surrounding available memorial benefits for veterans and their families.
Harper Ridgeview Funeral Home offers compassionate support in veteran funeral planning

Funeral home shares key information for veterans and their families on funeral arrangements

Courtesy First Fed
Local builders expand housing in Port Angeles

Three new apartment buildings are under construction on East Melody Lane in… Continue reading