• Daily Life & Activities – art classes, lawn games, technology workshops
• Connection & Companionship – laughter, friendships, conversations
• Health & Well-Being – fitness classes, outdoor walks, wellness moments
• Intergenerational Moments – when youth visit COA events, shared projects
• Support Services in Action – transportation, meal programs, help desks

Photo Requirements

• Original photography — color or black & white
• Minimum: 1 images • Maximum: 5 images
• Include a title and brief caption for each image describing the moment and subject.
• Include a brief story for each image: What’s happening in the image? Why does it matter? What does it say about your COA/community?.
• Photos must depict real people and authentic moments (no stock images).
• Image files: JPEG or PNG, min 3000 px on long side.

Story Component (Optional but encouraged)

• Submit a short story (100–150 words) about one favorite photo — what it means to your COA and the people in it.

• Entry Opens: May 13, 2026
• Entry Deadline: September 4, 2026
• Finalists Announced: September 25, 2026
• Exhibition at MCOA Fall Conference: October 21–23, 2026
• Reception & Awards Ceremony: October 22, 2026

(Exact dates subject to final MCOA Fall Conference schedule.)

1. Complete the online entry form at the submission portal.
2. Upload your images with required titles and captions.
3. Provide contact information and COA affiliation (if applicable).

Entries received after the deadline will not be considered.
Mistitled or incomplete submissions may be disqualified.

Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges selected by MCOA. Photographs will be evaluated on thematic relevance, composition, visual impact, and emotional connection.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

• Best in Show
• People’s Choice (voted by conference attendees)
• Theme Honorees (one for each theme)
• Honorable Mentions

Exhibition & Display

• Selected finalists will have prints displayed in a special exhibit space at the MCOA 2026 Fall Conference.
• Winning photos will be featured in the MCOA newsletter and social media.

Selected entries will be printed and exhibited during conference sessions. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to view and celebrate photo stories that reflect the theme Focused on What Matters: Supporting Our Older Adults.

All selected photographs will be featured as part of the Massachusetts Councils on Aging (MCOA) 2026 Fall Conference Photo Exhibit and may be displayed digitally on MCOA’s website and social media platforms.

Up to three (3) winning photographs will be printed & exhibited onsite during the 2026 MCOA Fall Conference and may be included in future MCOA publications, promotional materials, and conference displays.

Ownership of all submitted images remains with the photographer. All rights and credits belong to the respective photographers.

By submitting an entry, photographers grant MCOA a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use submitted images for promotional, educational, and mission-driven purposes related to supporting older adults and Councils on Aging. This includes use in digital communications, social media, newsletters, printed materials, and conference exhibits. Photographer credit will be provided whenever images are used.

Selected winning photographs may be professionally printed for exhibition purposes.

Entrants are responsible for obtaining appropriate permissions and photo releases for individuals appearing in submitted images. By submitting, entrants affirm they have secured all necessary rights and permissions.

Massachusetts Councils on Aging (MCOA)

Photo & Media Release Form

2026 MCOA Fall Conference Photo Contest
Theme: Focused on What Matters: Supporting Our Older Adults

I hereby grant permission to the Massachusetts Councils on Aging (MCOA) and my local Council on Aging/Senior Center to photograph and/or record me (or the minor listed below) during participation in programs, services, or activities at the senior center or Council on Aging.

I understand that these photographs and/or recordings may be used for:

• The 2026 MCOA Fall Conference Photo Exhibit
• MCOA website and social media platforms
• Newsletters and printed publications
• Educational and promotional materials supporting the mission of Massachusetts Councils on Aging

I understand that:

• My participation is voluntary.
• I will not receive compensation for the use of these images.
• My name may be used in captions unless I request otherwise.
• Images will be used respectfully and in alignment with MCOA’s mission of supporting older adults.

This authorization is continuous and may be revoked in writing at any time for future use.

Participant Information

Participant Name (print): _______________________________________

Signature: _______________________________________

Date: ___________________

Phone or Email (optional): _______________________________________

If participant is unable to sign or is a minor:

Authorized Representative/Guardian Name (print): ___________________________

Relationship to Participant: _______________________________________

Signature: _______________________________________

Date: ___________________

Caption Preferences

☐ I consent to my name being used.
☐ Please use first name only.
☐ Please do not include my name.