With its focus on engaging the community, the competition received 46 entries through Facebook, generating 1240 "likes" to select the 13 short-listed finalists exhibited over the Easter long weekend.

"There was a really diverse array of photographs submitted for this prize," Western Riverina Arts regional arts development officer Derek Motion said.

"The photographs had to have been taken in Leeton shire and accordingly many of the images depicted familiar landmarks, sites like the Roxy Theatre and Gogeldrie Weir.

"Some photographers also chose to present more personal ideas of 'Leeton's identity', with short-listed photographs including a shot of the family cats, a favourite spot in the bush and even a shot taken while sliding down the Leeton pool's waterslide."

However, it was a photograph of one of Leeton's oldest and most iconic buildings that was voted the winner.

Over the course of the exhibition 610 visitors recorded a vote for their favourite photograph, with Rocco Pirrottina's Travel Back in Time a clear winner, attracting 20 per cent of the vote.

The photograph of the Historic Hydro Motor Inn was taken at night and the lighting illuminates the stained glass window. The image also includes a long-exposure shot of the sky, with the stars painting a circular pattern directly behind the Hydro.

"The photograph is well composed and executed, and was definitely a crowd favourite on the night of the exhibition launch," Mr Motion said.

"It was particularly pleasing to see that this photography prize attracted a range of entrants. Even amongst the short-listed images there was work from amateurs using simple camera phone devices, as well as professionals using more expensive equipment.

"The overall aim of this competition was to get people to engage and participate. Even if you don't consider yourself an 'artist' there is a lot to gain by getting involved in an artistic activity."

All of the images submitted for the 2014 photography prize can be viewed on the Western Riverina Arts Facebook page.