VBG In Bloom

2025 In Bloom Photo Contest Winners

The theme of the 2025 In Bloom Photo Contest was Garden Stories. Photographers were challenged to highlight events and people engaged in activities at the Gardens.

With the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words” in mind, the goal of the photo contest this year was to expand the stories of the Gardens.

Congratulations to the winners!

Judges Choice

Orange flowers in focus on a garden path, captured for the In Bloom Contest, with a dog on a leash and a person walking ahead, both blurred in the background.

1st Place: Alicia Barreto

Exploring the Garden

A coastal city view with buildings near the shoreline, trees in bloom, and walking trails on a hillside leading down to the ocean under a clear sky—capturing the spirit of the In Bloom Contest.

2nd Place: Vu Nguyen

Road to Heaven

A person wearing a straw hat sits on a plastic crate and paints a landscape for the In Bloom Contest, working at an easel along a dirt path in a hilly, green outdoor setting.

3rd Place: Mary Kay Kendall

The Earth Whispers in Hues

People's Choice

An adult and a small child, both wearing hats, walk hand in hand on a dirt path surrounded by greenery and stone walls on a sunny day—capturing a moment perfect for the In Bloom Contest.

1st Place: Josie Navarro

A Day with “Ama”

A person wearing a sunhat and backpack takes a photo of flowering plants in a garden full of colorful foliage for the In Bloom Contest.

2nd Place: Tracy Newman

The Photographer Becomes the Subject

Large red heart sculpture on a hillside overlooks a coastal city with blue sky and ocean in the background, capturing the vibrant spirit of the In Bloom Contest.

3rd Place (tie): Alicia Barreto

Exploring the Garden

Orange flowers in focus on a garden path, captured for the In Bloom Contest, with a dog on a leash and a person walking ahead, both blurred in the background.

3rd Place (tie): Tara Pinley

Garden Valentine

View More Winners

DONATE

Support the gardens today!

DONATE

PLANNED GIVING

Support the future of the gardens.

GIVE

MEMBERSHIP

Become a member!

JOIN TODAY