The contest encourages visitors to pictureamerica.usatoday.com to submit their images that “capture the essence of the country and best represent it for international travelers.” Three judges, Mick Cochran, director of photography for USA TODAY; David Griffin, director of photography for National Geographic magazine and Bob Krist, independent travel photographer and three-time winner of the Society of American Travel Writers “Travel Photographer of the Year,” will select 10 finalists. Then USA TODAY readers will vote on the first, second and third place winners.

Image: pictureamerica.usatoday.com (screenshot)

Each of the three winners will receive a trip from Travelocity and a $500 American Express voucher credit toward airfare. The trips include a four-night stay in Las Vegas (Planet Hollywood Resort), New Orleans (Hotel Monteleone) and Orlando (Regal Sun Resort).

The contest entry period ends on May 8, 2009 with voting taking place from May 25 through June 8, 2009. The winners will be announced on June 22, 2009.

The images from the 10 finalists, including the winners, will then be used as part of Discover America’s marketing campaign promoting travel to the U.S. to international travelers.

This is an interesting campaign because it allows entrants a chance to win a great travel prize package, while also encouraging travel to the U.S. With the travel industry (like most industries) slumping right now, innovative, interactive campaigns are necessary.

Image: discoveramerica.com (screenshot)

The Discover America site profiles some of the top destinations in the country with text, videos and photos. They provide an overview of attractions, hotels, restaurants and shopping, while also offering the ability to book hotels (through Travelocity), get a deal on airfare and find a travel specialist.

Its interactive capabilities let users upload their own travel photos, as well as submit and browse stories about U.S. destinations. Another interesting part of the website is the Activity Finder, which allows you to check out attractions and activities throughout the U.S. by selecting your areas of interest, time of year of travel and other filters. Every major city in the country has an official travel and tourism site, so it makes sense for the United States as a whole to have one too.

Post from: EveryJoe

Picture America Contest

Sedona Red Rocks - Image: Flickr

According to Sedona.biz, the Sedona Chamber of Commerce is doing just that. Growing up in Phoenix, Sedona was always one of my favorite places to visit. Known for its spirituality and serenity, Sedona, Arizona is also a hot spot for hiking, horseback riding, golfing, ballooning and a multitude of other activities.

The Chamber has launched a multi-dimensional ad campaign that includes outdoor advertising in billboards, custom-newspaper wrap, direct mailing to AMEX card holders, and a newly updated website at VisitSedona.com.

The website includes information on restaurants, hotels, spas and other services. It also has links to book a room and find package deals. Additionally there is an event calendar to let you know what’s happening in the area.

Though the economy is not at its best, people will still travel. So tourism businesses will need to continue to spend in order to compete. If you are vacationing in Arizona, check out VisitSedona.com for lots of great information.

Image credit: Adamos Maximus – Flickr

Post from: EveryJoe

Sedona Chamber of Commerce Launches Tourism