5 Questions With The November 2024 #DryTortugas Photo Contest Winner

Meet AJ Schwarz, our November 2024 #DryTortugas Photo Contest winner. We had the chance to ask him a few questions about his experience at the Dry Tortugas National Park. Read on to learn how he captured his amazing photo!

1. When did you visit the Dry Tortugas National Park? Did you arrive by seaplane, the Yankee Freedom ferry, or another way?
I visited the Dry Tortugas September 19th 2024 with my fiance. We took the Yankee Freedom ferry from Key West.

2. If you arrived by the Yankee Freedom, how was your ferry trip?
The ferry trip was amazing and the boat staff was super helpful and knowledgeable. The breakfast provided and the drink and snack selection was great. The best part was the Jersey Mikes subs included with the ferry ticket.

3. How did you capture your winning photo? What inspired you to take it? Did you use any cool camera gear?
I am really into wildlife photography which was one of the biggest reasons why I couldn’t wait to visit the Dry Tortugas. I have always loved Pelicans so when I saw this one perfectly pearched with the beautiful color of the water in the background, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to capture this shot. I captured the photo with my Nikon Z9 camera and my 180-600mm lens.

4. What made your trip to the Dry Tortugas memorable?
Everything about our trip made it memorable! It was one of the most amazing places we have ever visited. As soon as we got back on the ferry, we knew we would be visiting again.

5. What do you plan to do with your National Park Annual Pass?
I am going to try and take full advantage of the National Park Annual Pass this upcoming year. My top two parks to visit this year are Acadia National Park and Yellowstone National Park.