| Copyright | Entrants retain ownership and all other rights to future use of the photographs.You grant to NWF and its licensees the perpetual, worldwide non-exclusive license to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entry |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 17 October 2021 |
| Entry fee | up to ten photos for $15 |
FinishedPrizes:
- Grand Prize: $1,000 cash prize
- Runner-Up: $500 cash prize
- Category Winners (5 total): Each will receive a 12-pack Garden for Wildlife Native Plant Collection ($118 value)
- Runner-Up Category Winners (5 total): Each will receive a 6-pack Garden for Wildlife Native Plant Collection ($68 value)
- Honorable Mentions: National Wildlife Federation Calendar
Categories:
- People in the Wildlife Garden
- Certified Wildlife Habitat Landscapes
- Wildlife Observations Where People Live, Work, Play, Learn and Worship
- Close-up Native Plants and their Wildlife Visitors
- Young Habitat Photographers: For photographers age 13-17
Online submission of digital images via the website.
Image requirements: at least 1,600 pixels wide (if a horizontal image) or 1,600 pixels tall (if a vertical image). There is a maximum file size of 50 megabytes per image. Images should be in RGB or sRGB format.
Judging criteria: representation of main elements of habitat, and for originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact and artistic merit.
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.