The City of Orlando announced on May 13 that it is seeking photographers to participate in the 2027 Historic Preservation Board Calendar and photography contest, themed “50 Years… Preserving Places that Tell Orlando’s History.” The announcement comes as the board marks its 50th year recognizing people, places, and stories important to the city’s character.
This initiative highlights efforts to celebrate and preserve sites that have shaped Orlando over time. Photographers are invited to submit images of locations at least 50 years old—generally pre-1975—that reflect Orlando’s history. There are currently 47 individual landmarks and more than 1,800 properties across six local historic districts recognized by the board for their significance in shaping the community.
Selected photographs will be featured in the annual calendar honoring half a century of preservation work. Each photographer whose image is chosen will receive a $100 honorarium sponsored by McCoy Federal Credit Union. Submissions must be labeled with a site address; those without will be disqualified. The deadline for submissions is July 6, 2026, at 5 p.m., and both digital and printed formats are accepted.
Photographs may be emailed or mailed to the Historic Preservation Office at Orlando City Hall. Winning entries will be selected through blind judging by members of the Historic Preservation Board. According to the official website, Orlando’s City Hall at 400 South Orange Avenue serves as the main hub for administrative offices and services supporting residents through governance, infrastructure, public safety, community development initiatives, and collaboration with neighborhood groups.
The city operates under a mayor-council system led by a mayor and six council members serving four-year terms according to the official website. For more information about competition guidelines or how to participate in this milestone event celebrating preservation efforts in Orlando, visit orlando.gov/calendarcontest.
