Aspiring local backcountry photographers have a chance to snap up some free stuff with two photography competitions geared to outdoor shooters.

The Backcountry Lodges of British Columbia Association (BLBCA) announced their first photo contest the BLBCA Big Ol’ B.C. Backcountry Brag Off.

Three categories of pictures are accepted: Skiing or snowboarding, hiking and wildlife and nature. There are plenty of prizes including backcountry survival gear, clothes, camera gear and more.

Submissions will be judged on ‘how much the image and accompanying tale exemplify someone’s best day in the B.C. backcountry’, the visual energy and showcasing B.C.’s adventurous spirit.

The contest is open until Feb. 15, for more information check out www.bcbackcountry.ca.

B.C. Nordic has also launched their photo contest to capture winter ‘fun on the trails’ in B.C. vying for the best 3x5’s.

The contest will run until April 9 and is as simple as shooting, uploading and voting for your favourite photos.

Prizes include a Whistler Nordic Getaway for two including spa, dinner, trail passes and accommodation, bed & breakfast retreats in B.C.’s Cariboo country and the Silver Star Mountain Weekend Warrior Nordic Ski Camp.

Photos of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and backcountry skiing or snowboarding, at one of the 16 participating B.C.

Nordic member ski areas including the Black Jack Ski Area just outside Rossland.

For more information and to enter visit www.bcnordic.com.