May 20, 2026
Salem, Mass.- Historic Salem, Inc. (HSI) announces that in celebration of Salem’s 400th anniversary, it will be running its first ever Historic Salem, Inc. Photo Contest, in partnership with Salem 400+. This photo contest is open to the public and will run from Friday, May 15, 2026 to Saturday, August 15, 2026. The Historic Salem Inc. Photo Contest will seek photographs which celebrate the past, present, and future of Salem, Massachusetts. Local photographers, of all ages and levels of skill, are invited to submit photos to the following categories. Participants may submit up to three photos in each:
- Salem Through Time
Juxtaposing old and new to honor preservation.
Moments where Salem’s past and present meet. Historic buildings in everyday use, modern life unfolding in
centuries-old spaces, or visual contrasts show how the city has evolved while preserving its character. - Hidden Salem
Up close and often overlooked.
Focus on architectural details, textures, and small discoveries; doorways, ironwork, inscriptions, materials,
and quiet corners can reveal Salem’s history. - Your City
What Salem means to you.
An open, interpretive theme inviting photographers to express their personal connection to Salem—whether
through people, places, memories, routines, or emotions. This category centers lived experience and
individual perspective.
A first, second, and third place from each category will be determined by a group of volunteer judges. A Grand Prize winner across all categories will also be decided. Following this selection, remaining photos will enter a People’s Choice competition on social media. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. Winning photographs will be revealed at HSI’s annual Preservation Awards and Historic House Resource Expo, which is open to the public and will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9am – 12pm at the Salem High School.
Please visit Historic Salem, Inc. / Salem 400+ Photo Contest for more information on submitting your photos.
