Michigan is full of landscapes and summer activities that make our state one of the most picturesque and fun places in the country.

Nowhere else can you capture a snapshot of one of dozens of historic lighthouses, enjoy the water on one of more than 11,000 inland lakes, and see the sunrise and sunset on miles of breathtaking beaches.

In an effort to help highlight our state’s natural beauty and positive way of life, I am hosting an online photo contest where Southwest Michigan residents can submit their favorite photographs that were taken this summer and capture the spectacular vision of Pure Michigan.

Until 5 p.m. on Sept. 15, residents can submit their photos on my website at SenatorJohnProos.com/sen-proos-pure-michigan-summer-photo-contest.

After the submission period, finalist photos will be posted to my Facebook page, John Proos Supporters Page. Visitors on Facebook will then be able to vote for the photos they like the most.

Each finalist photo will receive one vote for each “like” it gets on Facebook and one vote for each vote it garners on a website poll.

At the end of the contest, the photo with the most votes will win and will be displayed in the Michigan Capitol.

Although the contest is limited to residents of Berrien, Cass and St. Joseph counties, eligible photos can be of any Michigan location or pastime.

Photo submissions will be limited to one picture per person and the person submitting the photo must have taken the picture. To see the complete rules or submit a photo, visit the Pure Michigan Photo Contest page.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact my office toll-free at 866-305-2121 or by email at senjproos@senate.michigan.gov.

The goal of this photo contest is to help promote our state by giving southwest Michigan residents a fun and creative opportunity to showcase what makes Michigan such an incredible place to live. I look forward to seeing the submissions.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.