About

Admission includes 1 drink ticket & refreshments. 90%+ of proceeds to IRC.

CaptureWA is a recurring benefit photography contest, centered around story & wonder. Photographers share meaningful moments they’ve lived and captured in Washington, and selected work is exhibited in a public gallery, bringing the community together for reflection, connection, and charitable impact.

Yet CaptureWA is not just a photography contest; it tells the story about how we see ourselves and the places we call home. Those moments of "story and wonder" can become a bridge to help others find belonging and a "home" (literal or figurative) of their own.

The Vision: Beyond the Lens

Washington is full of moments that make us stop and feel something—a quiet sunrise over the Sound, the energy of a Seattle street, the resilience of hard working people we know, or a shared laugh in a crowded market. For most, these are fleeting. But for photographers, these are the moments they can capture.

As a real estate broker, my daily work is centered on the concept of "home." I see firsthand that a home is more than a transaction or even a shelter; it’s a major contributor to stability in the rest of life, and to a sense of belonging. I created CaptureWA to inspire awe in everyone involved, so that by inviting our community to share the authentic, lived stories they’ve captured across our state, everyone walks away feeling connected to themselves, to others, and to where they live.

The Mission: Connection and Reflection

The heart of CaptureWA is the belief that photography isn’t just about the image—it’s about the story behind it. Good photography isn't just something pretty to look at; it moves you. This event exists to provide a storytelling platform where:

Washington Connects: We bring together photographers of all levels and art-lovers to share and enjoy the diverse culture, people, and landscapes of our region.
Washington Reflects: Through a curated gallery of 16 finalists, we invite the community to step away from the digital noise and experience these stories in person.
Washington Gives Back: We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience awe & wonder. That's why this season, we're celebrating our home and community by helping those who are currently without one. No less than 90% of our proceeds benefit the International Rescue Committee (IRC).

From the Founder: Why This Matters

In a world that often feels divided, the experience of awe (facilitated through art) has a unique power to remind us of our shared humanity. When you submit a photo or attend our gallery this June at PublicDisplay.ART, you aren't just looking at a picture; you are contributing to a recurring cultural tradition that supports a local charity doing good work. My hope is that you leave feeling more connected to everyone and everything around you.

CaptureWA is my way of connecting my professional life with a deeper purpose: helping others find wonder and a sense of place in Washington while ensuring that the 'story' of our community is one of radical generosity.

While every CaptureWA event has the overarching theme of "Story & Wonder in Washington," to encourage reflection on the experience of the IRC's clients, this season's sub-theme is "Home & Belonging." Photographers will seek to answer some of these questions: "What does it mean for Washington to be 'home?'" "Where do I feel safe?" "In what spaces do I feel like I belong?" Then, they'll tell the story.

How to Participate

Just want to donate?

Hit the "Donate & Tickets" button at the top-right of this page, then select "I'd just like to donate" in the bottom-left corner of the pop-up screen.

Not a photographer, but want to attend the gallery exhibition?

If you don't plan to submit photos but want to attend the in-person gallery experience at PublicDisplay.Art, you can get tickets through this GiveButter campaign! Hit the "Donate & Tickets" button at the top-right of this page.

Are you a photographer with photos to submit?

Head over to tylerfreeman.kw.com/events/CaptureWA to read up on Contest Rules, Terms & Conditions, FAQs, and other things to know before you submit your photos. There, you'll find the Official Contest Entry Form. There's a suggested donation of $5 per entry (you can come back here to donate). Be sure to grab your ticket!

Who do you know?

Lastly, who do you know that would want to participate in this? Is there someone who'd be willing to donate something to a silent auction? Maybe you have a photographer friend who has been looking for more exposure. Or you have 10k+ followers on your social media account. Please spread the word!

CaptureWA Photography Contest

"Where Washington connects, reflects, and gives back"

Team Members