| Copyright | Entrants, by submitting images, grant permission to the Underwater Photography Guide to use winning entries for the direct promotion of the Underwater Photography Guide photo contests, including but not limited to Ocean Art. All photo rights remain with the photographer. Any images used for this purpose online will include a watermark with 'Ocean Art Contest' and the photographer's name. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 22 November 2016 |
| Entry fee | $10 USD per photo |
FinishedThe contest features over 25 incredible liveaboard, resort and photo gear sponsors exceeding $75,000 USD in value. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in all categories will be able to choose from excellent prizes.
Categories:
- Wide-Angle
- Macro
- Marine Life Behavior
- Portrait
- Cold Water
- Nudibranchs
- Supermacro
- Novice DSLR
- Mirrorless Wide-Angle
- Mirrorless Macro
- Mirrorless Behavior
- Compact Wide-Angle
- Compact Macro
- Compact Behavior
- Pool and Conceptual
- NEW – Reefscapes
Winners and prize awards will be announced the week of January 9, 2017
Image requirements: JPEG/JPG images only; At least 2500 pixels on the longest side; Maximum file size 8MB; sRGB color space is recommended; Watermarks NOT allowed; Scanned slides are acceptable; Finalists will be asked to provide original RAW file
Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
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 — 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.