But in capturing that moment, she created an image that has been recognized for excellence by the state Department of Tourism. Wolf is the grand prize winner for the department’s Unbridled Spirit of Summer photo contest.

Wolf is a Harrodsburg native who returns to her beloved home state a couple of times a year. She had just taken a motor coach tour of the Midway area and was so struck by the scenery that she returned to the area in her own car.

"I had gotten out to take some pictures of some horses in a field, when I turned around and saw the road," Wolf said. Sunlight streamed through the graceful trees that served as a canopy over the country lane. With a snap of the shutter, she created a permanent memory.

For Wolf, photography is simply a hobby that she enjoys when she travels. As grand-prize winner, she received a certificate for a two-night stay at the Kentucky state resort park of her choice. She said she plans to bring her six-year-old son to Kentucky next summer to use her prize.

"We couldn’t have a chosen a better image to capture the scenic beauty of Kentucky," said Tourism Commissioner Randy Fiveash.

The Department of Tourism sponsors photo contests several times a year, inviting submissions in five categories: outdoor adventure, extraordinary landscapes, Kentucky landmarks, scenic wildlife, and big city/small town.

In addition to the grand prize winner, seven other finalists were chosen, all from Kentucky. They are Gaylynn Caldwell of Worthington, Mary Noble of London, Diana Clark of Wellington, Dwight Carter of Benton, Regina Eaton of Berea, Pam Brister of Earlington, and High Hudson III of Frankfort. Each will receive a gift basket containing Unbridled Spirit merchandise.

Department officials plan to organize a winter photo contest. Details will be announced later.