Kids, hit us with your best (snap)shot

The Mentor Public Library is holding a photography contest for kids from May 1 through 15; so, if you're handy with a camera (or phone,) hit us with your best shot!

Kids up to the age of 12 can compete in the contest. And, yes, you can use any device—a phone, tablet, even a camera—to take your winning snapshot.

There will be three categories: people, places and artistic.

The people category allows the photographers to focus their lenses on their friends and family and even themselves. That's right. We respect the selfie or, as it used to be called, the self-portrait.

The places category lets you share your best photos from vacation, a favorite landmark or a trip to the park. You don't necessarily have to travel too far. Sometimes, the best places are just a short walk from your home.

Finally, the artistic category embraces anything that's neither person nor place. Let your imagination run free. (And then capture it with a photo.)

Kids can compete in any category, but they can only enter one photo total in the contest. So make sure the photo you submit is your best.

Between now and May 15, bring a printed copy of your photo (no bigger than 5'' by 7'') to the children's department of Mentor Public Library's Main Branch. You'll also need to fill out a submission form.

All of your contest entries will be displayed in the children's department; and, from May 16 until the end of the month, everyone can vote on their favorites.

The top vote-getters in each of the three categories will win a prize!

So get out there and capture the world the way you see it.

Speaking of photographers, thanks to George Hodan for the use of his splendid photo.