Photography students have a chance to make a permanent mark in Illinois history.

The secretary of state’s office is sponsoring a photograph contest in which all of the winners will have their photograph featured in the 1992 Illinois Blue Book.

The contest is divided into three categories. The first category is for those under the age of 12; the second category is for those between 13 and 18; the third is for those over the age of 18.

From each of the three categories, a first, second, third and honorable mention are picked as winners.

The contest marks its second year, with the first contest photographs featured in the 1989-1990 Illinois Blue Book.

The secretary of state’s office anticipates a bigger turnout than last time because more promoting has been done.

Contest coordinator Kristy Donaldson said, “Two years ago we had 370 entries from people over the age of 18, and 51 entries from those under the age of 18. We anticipate more entries because last time we only sent out newsletters to some schools in the state, this time we sent out newsletters to all Illinois superintendents.”

The theme of the contest is “Scenes from Illinois.” Photographs should capture the beauty and diversity of the state, Donaldson said.

The photographs must be no smaller than 5 inches by 7 inches and they must be mounted on an 11-by-14 board. Each contestant may submit up to three color photographs per entry.

The contest was patterned after other states blue books which had photographs of their state throughout. Former Secretary of State Jim Edgar initiated the contest in Illinois, Donaldson said.

All entries must be postmarked by July 31 and they should be sent to the secretary of state’s office.