Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit more than one entry?

Yes! You can submit up to three entries: one in each category. You cannot enter two photographs in the same category, however (i.e. two landscape photographs, even if they are both fantastic).

Where can I find a mat for my photograph? Are they expensive?

You can find mats in most Arts&Crafts stores, like Michael's or A.C. Moore or a photography store (like Sandrians in Morristown). You can also go to a store that specializes in framing, though that may cost more. Mats are not expensive; a plain 11x14 white mat at A.C. Moore or Michael's is less than five dollars. There are fancier mats that cost more, but a plain, white mat is just fine!

If I want to drop my photograph(s) off in person, when and where can I do that?

You can drop them off Monday-Friday from 9:00 to 4:30. We will start accepting photographs April 1, 2011 and the deadline for all entries is May 31, 2011. You can leave your submissions with the receptionist in the Haggerty Education Center. The Haggerty Education Center at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum is the large building adjacent to the parking lot.

How do I get to the Frelinghuysen Arboretum?

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is located at 53 East Hanover Avenue, Morris Township, NJ 07962. If using the GPS, keep in mind that some brands of GPS identify the Arboretum as being in Whippany.

From the South:

Take I-287 North to Exit 36A (Morris Ave.) Proceed east about .5 miles, past Washington Headquarters (on left). Take left fork onto Whippany Road. Turn left at second traffic light onto East Hanover Avenue. Proceed about ¼ mile, and the entrance will be on your left, across from the Morris County Library.

From the North:

Take I-287 South to Exit 36, following signs for Ridgedale Avenue. Proceed to traffic light, then turn right on Ridgedale Ave. At second traffic light, turn right onto East Hanover Avenue. Proceed about ¼ mile, and the entrance will be on your right just past the traffic light at the Morris County Library.

From Route 24

Take 24 West to Exit 1A onto Whippany Road. Stay in right lane. Turn right at the first traffic light onto East Hanover Avenue. Proceed about ¼ mile, and the entrance will be on your right just past the traffic light at the Morris County Library.

Where will the photographs be on display?

The photographs will be on display in the gallery of the Haggerty Education Center. The gallery is located on the lower level, which is accessible by stairs and by elevator. The display will be up throughout the month of July, and is open to the public (so encourage your family and friends to come see your work!)

Will I receive my photograph back when the contest is finished? When?

You will receive your photographs back once the display is taken down. They will be available for pick up at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum throughout the month of August.

Do my nature photographs have to be taken at the Arboretum or at other Morris County parks?

Absolutely not! Your photographs can be taken anywhere, as long as plants are incorporated into them. However, we would love to see our local parks in the photographs if you don't already have something else in mind. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is a beautiful place, so if you're looking for inspiration, please come visit!

The three categories for photographs in the contest are Landscape, Plants and People, and Macro. How do I know what category to submit my photograph into?

A Landscape photograph is one that incorporates a pretty large area of land which is taken from a distance. A photograph of a hillside or a field of flowers would be part of the landscape category. A close-up shot of a single tree on a mountain, or a photograph from a distance of a city would not fit into the landscape category.

The Plants and People category is meant to show people and nature together. A shot of a woman in a garden or a child climbing a tree would count in the Plants and People category. A photograph of your best friend in your living room with a vase of flowers in the background would not.

A macro photograph is a close-up shot, usually of a single object. A photograph of part of, or a whole flower, or an insect would be appropriate for the Macro category. An entire tree, or a close-up shot of your dog's nose would not.

If you have a question that isn't addressed here, please contact Katie Di Mare at kdimare@gmail.com for more information.