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2010 National Wildlife Photo Contest

 

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Categories:

  • Birds,
  • Mammals,
  • Other Wildlife,
  • Landscapes/Plants,
  • Connecting People and Nature,
  • Backyard Habita,
  • Global Warming

Divisions:

  • Pro — Full or part-time professional photographers who receive all or a major part of their income from nature photography.
  • Amateur — Beginning or amateur photographers at least 18 years of age, and experienced photographers who do not receive a major part of their income from nature photography.
  • Youth — Young photographers ages 13 to 17.

Prizes:

  • Grand Prize, one each for Pro and Amateur divisions (2): Cash Prize of $5,000 each
  • First Place, one for each category in both Pro and Amateur divisions and one in Youth Division (15 total): Cash Prize of $1,000 each
  • Second Place, one for each category in both Pro and Amateur divisions and one in Youth division (15 total): Cash Prize of $400 each
  • Honorable Mentions (awarded at discretion of judges): One NWF 2011 calendar, Total Value of Each: $15.99

You can submit up to 25 images.

We are looking for striking images of nature — on land, in the air and beneath the water’s surface—from anywhere in the world. These images may show animal behavior, portraits of wildlife in natural habitat, plant life, natural landscapes, or people interacting with nature. Do not include photographs of pets or domestic animals. Images of captive animals photographed in game farms or roadside zoos will be disqualified. Captive animals photographed in major zoos, wildlife research facilities or rehabilitation centers are acceptable. Clearly label animals as wild or captive in the caption information. Previously published photos may be entered; however, please include information on when and where the photos appeared. ll photographs should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared. Photos that have been digitally altered beyond standard optimization will be disqualified. Acceptable are adjustments to color, contrast, brightness and sharpness; removal of dust and scratches; cropping; black and white conversions; and use of HDMI (high dynamic range imaging), where multiple exposures of the same scene are combined for a greater tonal range. Not acceptable are photo composites (combination of two or more photos, not of the same scene); the addition, duplication, deletion or moving of objects in the photos; or the use of artistic digital filters and effects. Examples of artistic filters and effects are watercolor, neon glow, posterizing, stained glass, and others which do not show the scene in its natural way.

Camera-made digital images or scans of slides or prints must be uploaded as jpg, gif or png files. Photos should be no smaller than 6 x 9 inches at 72 pixels/inch. File size cannot be more than 2 mb. Original files of camera-made digital photos must be 3 megapixels or larger.

Official web site: http://www.nwf.org/PhotoContest/Default.aspx

Frequently asked questions — Animal photography contests

Who can enter animal photography contests?

Most animal contests welcome photographers worldwide, from hobbyists to professionals. Many prioritize ethical shooting practices and authentic animal behavior—review guidelines to confirm if your work aligns with wildlife conservation, pet photography, or artistic animal portrait focuses.

Are animal photography contests free to enter?

Some are free; many charge $10–$45 per image, with early-bird discounts or multi-entry bundles often available. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do animal photography contests offer?

Prizes range from cash awards ($200–$20,000) to publication in nature magazines, exhibition features, professional gear, or donations to animal conservation projects. Recognition from respected wildlife organizations can amplify your impact and credibility in the animal photography community.

How do I choose which animal contest to enter?

Match your strongest animal images to the contest's focus—wildlife behavior, domestic pets, macro details, or conservation storytelling. Review past winners for style cues, verify ethical guidelines (no baiting or staging), and confirm technical specs like resolution and metadata requirements.

Frequently asked questions — International photography contests

Who can enter international photography contests?

Most international contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of nationality or experience level. Always verify eligibility on the official contest page—some restrict by age (18+), amateur/professional status, or thematic focus.

Are international photography contests free to enter?

Some are free; many charge $10–$50 per image, with early-bird discounts often available. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do international photography contests offer?

Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$25,000) to gallery exhibitions, publication features, professional gear, and artist residencies. Prestigious awards like the Sony World Photography Awards or IPA carry significant industry recognition.

How do I choose which international contest to enter?

Align your strongest work with the contest theme and review past winners to gauge aesthetic preferences. Confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), check rights clauses carefully, and prioritize contests whose mission matches your artistic goals.

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