| Copyright | You retain full copyright of your images. By entering this photo contest you are agreeing that Waterman Center may choose to display a print of your image in their contest gallery. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 15 August 2021 |
| Entry fee | Early submissions from May 15 to July 15 are $6/1 photo or $25 for 5. Late submissions from July 16 to August 15 are $7/1 photo or $25 for 4 entries. Children under 18 submit up to 5 images free. |
FinishedPrizes:
- $200 for grand prize winner
- $50 for each adult category winner.
- Youth will receive cash equivalent giftcards for $50 for first place and $25 for 2nd and 3rd
- Winning images will be featured on a 2022 nature calendar.
Categories:
• Plant life and landscape – images can be of any scale from macro to landscape to astronomic images
• Wildlife – images must feature one or more mammals, reptiles or amphibians – macro, micro or otherwise
• Birdlife – images must feature one or more birds
• People in Nature – people out hiking or otherwise enjoying nature.
• Waterman Properties – any nature image produced from one of our six nature reserves:
o Apalachin Marsh
o Brick Pond
o Hilton Road Interpretive Center and Trails
o IBM Glen
o Hiawatha Island
o Pettus Hill Preserve
Image requirements: jpeg images in any aspect ratio with the longest side no smaller than 1024 dpi. Image size must not exceed 4meg.
Online submission of digital images via the website. Photos created through baiting or other questionable means will be disqualified. Captive animals are not permitted.
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.