| Copyright | Entrants retain copyright in all original images submitted. entrants agree to license and grant the Ecological Society of Australia a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide right to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish and display all or part of their entry for promotion of the competition or the Society |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 17 August 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThe Ecological Society of Australia runs this annual competition to promote beauty and diversity of the biodiversity and ecosystems of Australia, and the role of the science of ecology in unravelling their mysteries. Images must either be taken in Australia or its territories, or illustrate the work that Australian ecologists do in other countries.
Categories:
- Out Standing in the Field: Ecologists in Action
- Niches & Hollows: Adaptive Behaviour and Australian Biodiversity
- Beneath Southern Skies: Unique Australian Landscapes
Prizes (In each of the three categories:
- First Prize $500
- Second Prize $300
- Third Prize $100
Image requirements: 8 x 12 inches (20 x 30 cm) at 300 dpi, sRGB colour space; up to 10 Mb in file size
Online submission of digital photographs via the website. Entry is limited to 5 images per category per contestant.
Judging criteria:
- composition and technical competence including exposure, sharpness, appropriateness for the subject
- “wow” factor, to what degree does the photo impress and look truly professional
- ecological interest or significance of the photo, assessed by a combination of the photo and caption
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
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.