| Copyright | Entrants retain ownership and all other rights to future use of their photographs. The winning photographs will be published in the 2018 Spring/Summer issue of NATURE’S BEST PHOTOGRAPHY magazine and may be shown in online galleries and other NATURE’S BEST BACKYARDS(NBB) photography competition promotion opportunities, including, but not limited to, a compilation book or calendar, electronic collection of winners and web pages providing NBB information, updates, rules and ongoing photography tips. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 26 September 2017 |
| Entry fee | $30 US for Adults / Free Entry for Youth |
Finished
Submit images made in your own backyard, in a public or private garden, or nearby park.
Topics:
- WILDLIFE: Wild animals from your backyard habitat (no captive animals are accepted)—birds, mammals, etc.
- WATER LIFE: Ponds, streams, and wetlands in a backyard environment; also frogs, fish, and aquatic plant life.
- PLANT LIFE: Flowers, trees, and other flora in their natural habitat (identify exotic or hybrid species) around your home.
- PRIVATE BACKYARD GARDENS: Beautiful backyard (or frontyard) habitats that have been created to invite wildlife.
- PUBLIC PARKS and GARDENS: Community parks and gardens close to home (please identify location).
- SMALL WORLD: Close-up or macro shots of flowers or butterflies, caterpillars, insects, etc., in a backyard setting
The winning images will be featured in NATURE’S BEST PHOTOGRAPHY magazine and online galleries, and shared on social media.
Judging criteria: technical quality, composition, originality, and artistic merit.
Image requirements: low-resolution JPEGs (72 ppi) no larger than 500K. Photographers who have images that pass into the semifinal round of judging will be required to supply high-resolution files and RAW files if available, complete caption, and your camera specifications before the final judging. Normal processing of RAW image files and minor adjustments to color and contrast are acceptable, as is cropping. HDR and focus stacking are permitted as long as all manipulation is disclosed. No watermarks or text on photos.
Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
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.