Beginning like a tiny seed, a small group of photographers planted an idea that has since grown into a large, encompassing event. In 2001, they teamed up with the Hocking Hills State Park Naturalist to create a special photography event to promote the area to nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. They developed 24-hour photo contest that could draw visitors to the Hills, and also serve as
a fundraiser. The monies that would be raised would be used to build permanent wildlife viewing/photography blinds in the Park that would be free for Park visitors to enjoy. These blinds would give better viewing access of wildlife without disturbing wildlife and habitat. The first meeting of the group occurred in 2001, but it took over a year to plan and prepare this 3-day event. Over the months, more photographers joined their efforts; and they gained the support of other local Park officials, as well as that of area businesses. The third weekend in 2002 kicked off Shoot the Hills Photography Weekend in the Hocking Hills State Park; and it has reoccurred annually since. A lesser-known fact is that this core group of photographers was approached later that inaugural year by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Hocking Hills State Park officials to form what is now the Friends of the Hocking Hills State Park. Yes, the seedling idea of a few has grown to become an impressive and branching steward of these great Hocking Hills!
