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The 2nd Annual Great Outdoors Photo Contest

FinishedTheme: Outdoor locations around the world, may include historical locations, landscape and travel.

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Prize:

  • The Grand Prize Package: the Classic Polar Bear Photo Adventure for two and publication of your photo in Outdoor Photographer. (Approximate Retail Value: $11,590)
  • First Place Package: To be announced.
    People’s Choice Prize: Online publication of the winning photo in the Winners Gallery.

You can enter up to five photos. Please submit images in .JPG or .GIF format less than 4mb in size.

Judging criteria:

  • Adherence to Theme
  • Composition
  • Creativity/Originality

Official website: www.outdoorphotographer.com/photo-contests/2nd-annual-the-great-outdoors

Frequently asked questions — Landscape photography contests

Who can enter landscape photography contests?

Most landscape contests welcome photographers worldwide, from enthusiasts to professionals. Many prioritize authentic location work and ethical land practices—review guidelines to confirm if your style aligns with the contest's artistic or conservation focus.

Are landscape photography contests free to enter?

Some are free; many charge $10–$35 per image, with early-bird discounts or series bundles often reducing costs. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do landscape photography contests offer?

Prizes range from cash awards ($250–$10,000) to feature spots in outdoor magazines, calendar placements, workshop scholarships, or exhibition inclusion. Recognition from respected nature publications can significantly boost your visibility in the outdoor photography community.

How do I choose which landscape contest to enter?

Match your strongest images to the contest's theme or geographic focus. Review past winners for aesthetic preferences, verify technical specs (resolution, EXIF data), and check location requirements—some contests prioritize specific regions, parks, or environmental narratives.

Frequently asked questions — Free photography contests

Who can enter free photography contests?

Most free contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of experience level or equipment. Many explicitly encourage students, hobbyists, and emerging creators—always verify age requirements or thematic restrictions on the official contest page.

Are free photography contests really free?

Yes—entry is $0 across the board. Some contests offer optional paid perks like expedited feedback or printed certificates, but submission, judging, and basic participation remain completely free. Fee status is confirmed in the Quick Facts section on each PhotoCompete listing.

What prizes do free photography contests offer?

Prizes vary widely: cash awards range $100–$5,000, while non-monetary rewards include online features, publication credits, mentorship sessions, exhibition inclusion, or gear donations. Even without cash, free contests offer valuable exposure and portfolio-building opportunities.

How do I choose which free contest to enter?

Prioritize contests whose theme or mission aligns with your work. Review past winners to gauge style preferences, confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), and read rights clauses carefully—even free contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.

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