| Copyright | The photographer owns the photograph and the copyright to the photograps and allows DEC non-exclusive rights to use and publish the photograph on its website, in publications, calendars, brochures, or displays to promote forests in New York State. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all but photos must be taken in New York State. |
| Finish | 1 November 2011 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Theme: New York’s forests
Categories:
- Nature (wildlife, plants, natural landscapes, etc.)
- Enjoying the forest (hunting, fishing, trails, camping, hiking, etc.)
- Trees where we live (parks, streets, yards, etc.)
- Forest products (maple syrup, lumber, baseball bats, furniture, etc.)
- State-owned forests (State Forests, Forest Preserve lands, forested Wildlife Management Areas, Campgrounds)
Prize:
- The winner of each category will receive one framed print of his or her photograph.
Winners will be announced on December 1, 2011.
You may submit up to three photos. All photographs must be taken in New York State.
Image requirements: 768 x 1024 pixels or higher at 170 dpi; JPG or TIFF formats; minor digital editing only accepted. No borders, frames, dates, watermarks, signatures, or copyright images on the photographs.
Submit entries to: [email protected] (email attachment less than 10 Mb in size) or by post (images on a CD).
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.dec.ny.gov/lands/75396.html
Frequently asked questions — Nature photography contests
Who can enter nature photography contests?
Most nature contests welcome photographers worldwide, from hobbyists to professionals. Many prioritize ethical shooting practices and environmental storytelling—review guidelines to confirm if your work aligns with conservation-focused or artistic missions.
Are nature photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$40 per image, with early-bird discounts or bundle rates 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 nature photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$15,000) to publication in nature magazines, exhibition features, professional gear, or donations to conservation projects. Recognition from respected environmental organizations can amplify your impact and visibility.
How do I choose which nature contest to enter?
Align your work with the contest's environmental mission or aesthetic focus. Review past winners for style cues, verify technical specs (resolution, metadata), and confirm ethical guidelines—many nature contests prohibit baiting, staging, or disruptive wildlife practices.
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.