Unbelievable Starling Spectacle Lights Up Sonoma Valley Skies—How You Can Get Your Own Shots Featured in 2025
A breathtaking starling flock dance colored Sonoma Valley’s skies—learn how to get your images in the spotlight for the next “Photo of the Week.”
- Thousands of starlings form dramatic murmurations above Sonoma Valley each spring.
- 1,500+ submissions for “Photo of the Week” broke records in 2024.
- 80% of featured photos come from local residents.
Sonoma Valley residents were treated to a jaw-dropping display this week as thousands of starlings swooped and swirled across Ramal Road. The birds’ synchronized flight patterns, known as a murmuration, painted dramatic patterns against the valley’s lush spring backdrop—an event that drew eyes upward and cameras out across the region.
If you caught this captivating moment or another stunning Sonoma Valley scene, your photo could be featured as the next “Photo of the Week” by the Sonoma Index-Tribune. The contest is quickly becoming a local tradition for both amateur and pro photographers, and 2025 is poised to break even more participation records.
Q: What Makes Starling Murmurations Such a Must-See?
Starlings migrate in huge numbers, and their aerial ballets are both a survival tactic and an art form. These murmurations confuse predators like falcons and delight nature lovers everywhere. Sonoma Valley’s wide-open landscapes create the perfect amphitheater for these starlings’ swirling performances, attracting visitors and birders from across California.
How to Capture the Perfect “Photo of the Week” Shot
- Go horizontal: Horizontal images best fill digital and print pages—vertical shots may be cropped or resized.
- Golden hour magic: Shoot just after sunrise or before sunset for stunning natural lighting.
- Include location details: Note the exact spot and a brief story behind your shot.
- Don’t forget your name: Photo credits are mandatory for every submission.
Q: Where Should You Send Your Photos?
To have your work considered, email your best Sonoma Valley photos to [email protected]. Don’t forget your caption, the photo’s location, and your name. Original horizontal images are strongly preferred. Need inspiration? Check out stunning local galleries on National Geographic or tips from the pros at Photography.com.
Why 2025 Will Be a Huge Year for Community Photo Submissions
With smartphone cameras getting smarter and more people passionate about sharing nature’s beauty, the “Photo of the Week” feature is more competitive—and more inspiring—than ever before. Expect even more community spotlights, special themes, and opportunities for shares across social media and in print. Your moment behind the lens could be the next viral sensation!
Ready to capture and share Sonoma Valley’s natural wonders? Submit your best shots today and help showcase local beauty for all of California—and beyond!
Checklist for Photo Submission:
- ✔️ Take a horizontal photo of Sonoma Valley
- ✔️ Write a short caption and exact location
- ✔️ Include your full name (for credit)
- ✔️ Email it all to [email protected]
- ✔️ Double-check for high resolution and clarity
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