Amateur (ages 19 and up)We arrived just before sunrise after a long flight from California followed by a long drive from Newark airport. Before tumbling into bed, I went down to our dock to take in the beloved lake view and was astounding by the beauty that the rising sun cast over the water. The reflection of the sky in the water filled my soul. Lake Otsego connects me to the place where my husband grew up, to where I learned to be a physician, to where the love for my husband's family started. We were engaged in Cooperstown, and we now have two amazing daughters who treasure the happiness that Lake Otsego brings to our family - early morning yoga on the dock, fishing, kayaking, swimming, wakeboarding and tubing, and just gazing at the tranquil beauty that surrounds us, that brings us back to what is important in this world that is endlessly racing around us. As I stood there that morning, tired and ready to sleep, I felt the morning serenity reflected all around me - I felt renewed and filled with a sense of peace and happiness. I will always come back to this special place.

ProfessionalThis photo shows the opening of the new Susquehanna basin water trail. Brent Baysinger proudly holds his paddle up as the first one to cross through the ribbon. This picture shows how our area has changed, and provides us with an opportunity to reflect on life here in Otsego county.

ProfessionalIn the late spring, the iris emerges along the shore of the lake capturing a serene feeling across the water. The tranquil reflection in this image perfectly represents the calming demeanor of Otsego lake.

Youth (ages 8-18)As I was standing on the lce way back in February I couldn't help but think about how pretty the lake was. Now as I reflect on that moment I realize that Otsego lake is beautiful all year round wether your swimming or kayaking in the summer or skiing in the winter. There are endless things to do on Otsego lake and I am extremely grateful for everyone who helps keep our lake beautiful and clean all year long.

Youth (ages 8-18)Peacfull evening at the lake shore, reflected in the calmness of the water as I watched the sun go down

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Early mornings when Otsego Lake is glimmer-glass still are my favorite summer moments. Before children and grandchildren arise, I go out kayaking on this beautiful Lake as the sun rises on a new day. The peaceful calm and beauty allow a sweet time of reflection and a sense of connectedness with the past. I am filled with joy and gratitude for God's bountiful blessings. I am also thankful for all the efforts Scotty Baker and the OLA have made to preserve this pristine Lake.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The Glimmerglass stillness of a summer evening such as this feeds my soul and allows sweet reflections on the incredible beauty of God\'s creation and a timeless connection to the past. This photo captures a double reflection...the western sunset reflected off the eastern sky and then onto the Lake. I am very thankful for all who, like Scotty Baker and the OLA, have worked diligently to maintain the pristine nature of our Lake home where generations of our family have experienced great joy and renewal.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Reflections on this photo tell of sailboat racers enjoying Glimmerglass - despite their being very little wind. The beauty of the lake transcends all else.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)One of my favorite times of the day for a walk down to the lake is sunset -- as the sun sinks over the horizon, the light slowly fades, like a window shade being drawn on the day. There is a peace in knowing that generations of my family have experienced the same sunset over nearly 200 years, and a responsibility to ensure future generations are able to experience it unchanged as well.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This image captures the enchanting twilight on Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, NY, featuring the historic Otesaga Hotel, illuminated against the backdrop of a tranquil evening sky.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Reflects on the Intermingling of organic shapes of winter with the shapes formed around the sleeping buoys of summer recreation on Otsego Lake

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Changing weather is always interesting to observe and the lake enhances this by allowing one to see far into the distance.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)A clear early morning kayaking on the still lake. No one else in sight and the mist lifting.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Otsego Lake can be enjoyed both day and night, year around, and by every age of visitor. The minimal light pollution seen on Otsego Lake makes for a great back drop for nighttime photography and astrophotography. This makes it possible to observe a clear view of the Milky Way.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Otsego Lake is home to many different species of animals including several verities of ducks, both in migration and year around. These ducks rely on clean water to provide them food, safety and overall good health. Many duck species frequent Otsego Lake to raise their young included the Hooded Merganser seen here in immature form.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)It was 5:15 am ..the clouds were breaking. Looking out our picture window, dawn was breaking… then with a stunning array of gorgeous colors, came this wonderful show of Mother Nature. One of the most radiantly lovely thousand moods of our lake….,The quiet expanse of soft color on the lake, just lightly reflecting the incredible, deep, glowing hues above it — showcases this most beautiful scene. Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Youth (ages 8-18)In early fall, caught up in the back-to-school bustle, I hopped on my bike and sped down the street. I hadn't realized how quickly my leaf project due date had arrived. I eagerly rushed down Pioneer Street, hoping to find the leaves I needed at Lakefront. Carelessly, I tossed my bike in the middle of the walkway, as no one was around. As I scanned the leaves, I looked up and realized what I was missing. I was so focused on the leaves that I almost missed the beautiful ombre sunset reflected on Otsego Lake. After I saw it, I sat down on a rock and stared at the sleeping lion, my hands growing numb in the cold. The real lesson is: Life moves pretty fast. Sometimes we need to slow down, reflect, and admire the world around us, or we could miss it.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This view seems to embody the expressed intent of the contest effort. The arrow represents a cultural component of the first people who came here , the native Americans. They respected the lake and its gifts and from then to now we continue to appreciate its beauty and bounty. For generations many have found the lake to be a source of strength and calm, fun and frolic, memories and friendships. The arrow also symbolizes the direction forward into the future. In 2022 we encountered harmful algal blooms and realized our lake was vulnerable, even fragile. Just like generations before us we went into action to learn how we could protect her for generations to come. The trees and the sleeping lion represent the conservation approaches we take to ensure we find ways to keep her safe. Few lakes have such a pristine shoreline. The beauty of the lake, the calmness of the mirrored waters, the billowy clouds and the lush habitat fill all our senses. We must protect her for the futire. Onward!!!

ProfessionalThe simplest pleasures of life on the lake are timeless, yet tangible. Cleansing. Inspirational. They offer a reset. A moment to reflect. To truly strip our experience back to losing ourselves in this moment. Generation to generation, decade to decade, families have sought adventure here, found solace, and a deep connection to the water, casting lines and reeling in lifelong memories.

ProfessionalI am interested to submit this photo for “Reflections” at a time that its important to start reflecting on alternatives to this visual and emotional spectacle. Environmentally friendly fireworks do exist. They have a clean-burning nitrogen-based fuel that create little smoke. I hope to spark (excuse the pun) discussion on maintaining the beauty of our pristine body of water and how me might continue conservation efforts year round without compromising the unquestionable appeal of this vibrant annual tradition.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)It's a thrill to be able to get out on the frozen lake and change one's perspective. Seeing Kingfisher floating above the ice is a reminder of the timeless nature of our beautiful landscape.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Out rowing with our women's master's quad training on an early fall evening with the moon rising in the south. Our lake is "home water" for Otsego Area rowing and rowers of all ages (9 to 89) and abilities create community, get strong and experience the pure joy that is moving a boat though the water in a single, double or quadruple shell. We are so lucky!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Empty marina waiting for summer

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Duck family crossing quiet lake during autumn sunset.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection. Quiet time to reflect on various family memories of Otsego Lake

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection. Reflecting on Mother Nature’s Beauty on Otsego Lake.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Our beautiful lake that sparkled in sunshine earlier is now reflecting the grays as an impending storm approaches and the dark line is defined in a reflection just south of Five Mike Point. People are now home, boats are now moored, and the ominous dark cloud lne defines another of the thousand moods of Otsego Lake. Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The solitary boat reflects the interaction between the natural beauty of Otsego Lake and enjoyment it provides to thousands of visitors year after year

Amateur (ages 19 and up)A hidden treasure Brookwood gardens is a lovely peaceful place to see statues, water, flowers and that door! It was hard to choose just one shot from there.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The oldest covered bridge and the trail are a delight. I love to get it in shadow and light and it was hard to pick just one pic of the bridge.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Flew my drone over the lake to capture beautiful clouds and their reflection on the still water.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Ducks, much like the people of Otsego Lake and Cooperstown area, are highly adaptable to their environment. Be it paddling through the the lake with their webbed feet, waddling among tourists on land, or taking flight to warmer climates during winter and returning to raise their young in spring, ducks possess the ability to adapt to their changing environment to their benefit. Over the years this area has gone through major changes and has seen businesses come and go, economic developments emerge while others decline, and environmental challenges take place. As the years pass and people come and go, this area, like the adaptable duck, is able to change with the times and navigate change with grace and ease. Whether it’s the Garden Club working on the shoreline, the boaters enjoying the water, or community fireworks exhibiting joy and delight in the air, this area is much like a lucky duck, adapting to it’s environment and living life to the fullest.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Yellow has always been my favorite color and Otsego my favorite lake. My family spent time there when I was growing up. I went to camp there. Otsego reflects back to me my childhood and best memories over the years, as I have enjoyed the lake with my own son.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Reflections reveal an enchanting circle of life.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)In this image, Kingfisher Tower stands at the end of a rainbow, its reflection shimmering on the still surface of the lake as if painted in watercolor. A veil of fog softens the edges, blurring the line between sky and water, dream and memory. The photo captures more than a beautiful moment -- it reflects the spirit of this lake. Kingfisher Tower has become a symbol of permanence in a place defined by change: shifting light, rolling mist, the turning of seasons. Its mirrored image is not just a visual reflection, but a metaphor for legacy... what we pass down, preserve, and protect. This lake holds the stories of those who came before us: of stewards who kept its waters clean, of families who returned year after year, of quiet mornings when the world felt whole. The rainbow, fleeting and brilliant, reminds us that natural beauty is both fragile and precious... and that conservation is an act of love that echoes forward.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)In this photo, two young athletes row across the lake under my guidance, learning to move in sync with each other—and with nature. As they glide through still water beneath a rising rainbow, the lake becomes more than a backdrop; it becomes a teacher. Its calm demands presence, patience, and respect. This moment reflects the essence of what this place means to so many: a haven of natural beauty, a classroom without walls, and a thread connecting generations. Coaching on this lake means more than teaching technique. It’s about instilling reverence... for the water, for teamwork, and for the responsibility we share in protecting this pristine environment. The reflection of the rainbow on the surface mirrors the legacy we hope to leave behind: one of care, connection, and continuity. These rowers may not realize it yet, but they are now part of that legacy.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)One photo taken with a iphone in the winter and the other with a DGI drone, showing calm lake and beautiful clouds

Amateur (ages 19 and up)My Great Grandfather, Robert Otis Brigham of Boston somehow met and married Florence Vesta Stewart of Springfield Center. He was smitten by Vesta, her family, Springfield and Camp life. He started building Camp Wranglehurst in the early 1900s (staying in a hotel in Richfield while the Camp was being built. The Camp still stands (renamed Viewpoint) in Springfield, on western shore, opposite Sleeping Lion and Hyde Bay. I think my grandmother, Margaret (Peg) Brigham Seaver, is the person swimming in the photo! (my Great Grandfather took the original photo, I took a photo of the photo- not sure this is a proper submission, but thought it was a good historical shot of the lake!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The “whoosh” of the balloon’s burner woke me up at 6:30 am — the lake is always extra beautiful in its early morning mists and clouds, the balloon just added to this magical landscape!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This scene kept me at the lake front for a long time as the storm clouds and mists moved across the head of the lake. It was a dramatic and beautiful display. The reflections of the hills and clouds I feel draw the viewer to the scene unfolding over the Sleeping Lion.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This photo was taken at 11 PM on a Thursday, May 23, 2024. I had arrived at my camp to attend an honorary lecture for my recently deceased father and long time Cooperstown resident David Svahn MD. The beauty of the lake at that moment made me think of my dad and how much he loved the lake. It was special to him and it remains special to me and my family.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Lake users can enhance and complement the natural beauty.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Natural beauty, conservation, and reflection are "Spot On" !!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)From the sky, Cooperstown and Glimmerglass Lake reveal their deep bond—village and water cradled together in the landscape. I had the opportunity to fly with my father and see this view from above. In that moment, I saw not just a beautiful scene, but the reflection of a relationship: between land and lake, and between generations who have cherished both. This image captures more than a town on the edge of a lake—it reflects the way Glimmerglass shapes life here. The lake is a constant, pristine presence that anchors memories, sustains nature, and connects past to future. Flying with my father, I felt the continuity of our shared appreciation for this place, his home, and the responsibility to protect it for those who come next.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The stillness of Glimmerglass as shown by the reflections of the masts belies its readiness for sailing.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)A quiet early morning on Glimmerglass with fog rollling over the hills and only the ducks using the lake

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This image exemplifies the connection between the pristine beauty of Otsego Lake and the preservation of the abundant wildlife that depends on Glimmerglass for its survival.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)I was walking along East Lake Rd (Cty 31) and saw this beautiful site of the clouds and spring green hills reflected in the mirror of a calm Otsego Lake. I had to take a photo!!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Taken on an early morning in late October 2024. The pink dawn wakes the foliage dressed hills, that pool with navy shadows of night. Mimicking the glassy lake water they reflect in. No one but the lone duck in the centre, was yet awake. It was freezing and quiet, Otsego still as glass. Symbolizing the slow season about to befall Cooperstown, like the impending first frost and last autumn leaves. I chose the title Rural Hours, after Susan Fenimore Cooper’s nature diary. A book that has had a most profound impression on me as a writer and Cooperstown local, giving me an incredible further appreciation for the place in which we so luckily live. The pink hills and dark sketched shadows of the photo remind me the locally sold edition, and birds being a particular favorite of Susan, the duck seems fitting. This photo was taken in a deserted (rural) hour. The vista, thankfully conserved and predominately unchanged from how SFC would have seen and indeed wrote of it. A quintessential Cooperstown view, beloved by many generations.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into “Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Youth (ages 8-18)It’s more shows a self reflection though the colors of the lake and time of day

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Because it shows how even the beauty before people get mean

Amateur (ages 19 and up)I was fishing on Otsego Lake from a small kayak just off some docks a couple houses up from where I was staying. I suddenly felt my line snagged, and frustratedly pulled the line in an attempt to release it. However, the snag began to run to deeper water and I realized I had hooked into the biggest fish of my life in 3 feet of water. I fought the fish for 30 minutes before I saw it surface, a massive common carp, the biggest I had ever seen. I almost capsized my kayak pulling it into the boat and cheered with excitement when I had. As an aspiring fisheries biologist who is currently an undergraduate at SUNY Cobleskill, working with the SUNY Oneonta graduate program, I see lots of fish. I am not sure if I have seen one quite this big though, in all my years of studying.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The sky and the water at Lake Otsego constantly put on a show. The clouds over Sleeping Lion inspire awe.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)How wonderful to see my own children enjoy the place I loved as a child. The same place my parents and grandparents loved.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)My dad would get up early and go paddle on the lake when it was peaceful and calm. He loved the beauty of Lake Otsego and I love reflecting on memories with him here.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)This photo shows Sleeping Lion reflected on a blue-sky summer day on Otsego Lake. The clouds and mountain are reflected perfectly on the glassy surface of the lake. This picture captures the true beauty of Otsego Lake.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Otsego Lake is with us year-round, even in the frozen times of February when one can walk, ski, or snowshoe out on the ice. It\'s a different world.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)“To beautify the Lake”

Amateur (ages 19 and up)“Reflection” as a metaphor and as a literal subject to capture in art form. My photo tries to tell both. The photo - clouds reflecting on Glimmerglass from Pegg’s Point, looking toward the north end of the lake.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)I took this photo soon after leaving work on a very cold night. Viewing the aurora Borealis (northern lights) is always a highlight for me but capturing it from the vantage point of Council Rock raised the bar for my amateur photography eyes. Always relaxing from this viewpoint on the lake and to add the beauty of color on the horizon was worth the freezing cold.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)I took this photo soon after leaving work on a very cold night. Viewing the aurora Borealis (northern lights) is always a highlight for me but capturing it from the vantage point of Council Rock raised the bar for my amateur photography eyes. Always relaxing from this viewpoint on the lake and to add the beauty of color on the horizon was worth the freezing cold.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Please tell us how your photo ties into "Reflections”, a metaphor to showcase the natural beauty of our pristine lake, document conservation efforts, and portray the intergenerational connection to this body of water. Photo entries can include landscape/scenery, people, wildlife, watercraft, conservation and do not need to show a reflection.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)After a period during which our beautiful lake withraws its glimmering reflection of the stunning landscape around it, the spell breaks as the ice fragments before disappearing for the season.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)A bald eagle is ice fishing after having broken the layer of ice to open up a hole large enough to catch its next meal. The hole also allows our beautiful lake to show a small glimpse of water surface that shows the reflection of the bird of prey and the sky, giving us a sneak peek of what is to come after the thaw...

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Taken during the first sighting of Lake Otsego from the, first impressions imparts a sense of both tranquility with a bit of mystery coming along the way. The fall weather, along with the colour, imparts a sense of terminus which is fitting for the candidate for this move symbolizes an end to an older career. However the same coloring and mist also can mean new and multiple beginnings as vague and endless as the waters of the Susquehanna.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)As I came upon this scene I was struck by its beauty and the contrast of colors. It is as it would have appeared to all; the very first visitor, on. The shadows hide any intervention by humans. The sky, landscape, water... almost eternal

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The lake acts like a mirror for the sky and clouds.

ProfessionalFollow the arrow to happy. This photo represents my happy place. The lake represents calm, beauty, nature's medicine. I come here when I need to breathe. It's a place I visit to calm my soul, to reflect on life and on how lucky we are to have a place so beautiful right in our backyard. This is my happy place!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)I took this photograph on a cold October day in 2019 when my aunt came to visit. We didn’t know how much life was going to change in 6 months, but I was so grateful to have this to remember the peace I felt that day when I was feeling overwhelmed at my job in a hospital. I could take a moment looking at how the light reflects off the water and just breathe.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Boat docks, town pier Otsego Lake, Cooperstown. Absolutely love to photograph this beautiful place we live, the lakes, nature, kayaking. Here's a beautiful photo taken recently of the boat docks Winter 2024.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)Our lake is a place of so many memories, many from our childhood. I reflect on my own joy on a hot summer day, playing and jumping off the dock at 5 mile point. My own children were captured in this scene on a gorgeous, warm September day in 2018. The lake was still warm after a long summer, and our dog enjoyed a dip too. I believe this photo ties is with the title “Reflections” because I reflect on natural innocence of childhood, connecting with nature with an unbridled freedom, finding joy in water play. I like to think of their laughter bouncing off the water, as new ideas and inventions take place. The clouds were dramatic this day and the blue of the sky mixed with clouds reflecting off the water mirror the children’s excitement and joy bouncing off the beautiful water of this lake. This lake carries so many echoes of joy and laughter from all people who enjoy it.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)We often think of Lake Otsego as a place to feel the sun and watch the beautiful sailboats, but winter is a different story. Standing on the shores of the lake with winds howling down across the water, and snow swirling around the tower, is a raw beauty that most visitors don\'t encounter. This photo was taken on a very cold day, standing at the headwaters of the lake and experiencing what Mother Nature provides. It is not only breathtaking, but it helps you appreciate the beauty of our area, despite the cold and wind. I love it!

Amateur (ages 19 and up)To me this shows the perfect "mirror" effect of the lake. It is an image that would have been able to be seen 400 years ago or yesterday. It is at the landing where the Indians came to meet. It shows how clean the water is and how stunning the clouds, but mostly it shows the integrity of keeping the lake as close to it's origins as possible and as clean as possible. There are days when there are no boats or people on the Lake and it is serene, quiet, mighty and safe. This photo makes me cry with gratitude.

Amateur (ages 19 and up)The glow of the sunset is accentuated through the dark clouds. There is a sense of tranquility despite the impending storm.