A recently-published Pure Michigan spring photo book showcases Flint and the camera work of a former newspaper photographer. The book, which is filled with more than 100 professional-quality photos from 10 locales across the state, is the culmination of the Pure Michigan Photography Competition, started back in 2009. Kent Miller, a former photographer at The Flint Journal, won the competition and his photos of Flint and Genesee County received top honors. "I think this is a testament to the beauty and vibrancy of Flint and Genesee County, said Jerry Preston, president of the Flint Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Kent really captured, in his photos, the essence of what were all about. Miller, of Bay City, beat out photographers from convention and visitors bureaus across the state for the grand prize of $5,000. Approximately 40 photographers applied and 10 were approved to compete. The Flint-area chapter features photos from Stepping Stone Falls, the Flint Farmers Market, Crossroads Village and The Flint Institute of Arts.

The book will be for sale for $17. 95 plus tax at the Flint