| Copyright | Photographers own their own copyright. As a condition of having a photograph selected as a winning image, photographers agree to a non-exclusive transfer of worldwide rights allowing Nature's Best Publishing, LLC (NBP) the following uses including, but not limited to: publishing the image(s) in upcoming issues of Nature's Best Photography magazine; hanging the image(s) in public exhibitions; and displaying the image(s) on the NBP and other websites; and using the image(s) to promote Nature's Best Photography competitions. |
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| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 16 December 2025 |
| Entry fee | $30 USD for Adults for up to 25 images per entry / Free Entry for Youth |
FinishedPrizes:
- PRO WINNER: Win $1,000 USD cash, personalized Award plaque,
featured publication in Nature’s Best Photography, 1-year NBP magazine subscription (or renewal or gift), display in NBP presentations, including social media, and web galleries. - AMATEUR WINNER: Win $1,000 USD cash, personalized Award plaque, featured publication in Nature’s Best Photography, 1-year NBP magazine subscription (or renewal or gift), display in NBP presentations, social media, and web galleries.
- VIDEO WINNER: Win $500 USD cash, personalized Award plaque, publication in Nature’s Best Photography, 1-year NBP magazine subscription (or renewal or gift), display in NBP Vimeos, presentations, social media, and web galleries.
- YOUTH WINNER: Win $500 USD, personalized Award Plaque,
publication in Nature’s Best Photography, 1-year NBP magazine subscription (or renewal or gift), display in NBP presentations, social media, and web galleries. - HIGHLY HONORED FINALISTS: Personalized Awards Certificate,
publication in Nature’s Best Photography, display in NBP presentations, social media, and web galleries.
Judging criteria: Good composition, Originality, Artistic merit, Technical excellence, The story behind the shot
Image requirements: .jpg files from 500 kilobytes up to 5 megabytes in size at about 1000 to 2000 pixels on the longest side; RGB; Normal processing of RAW image files and minor adjustments to color and contrast are acceptable, as is minimal cropping. HDR and focus stacking are permitted as long as all manipulation is disclosed upon entry. If selected, You will be asked to supply High resolution TIFF files and un-altered RAWs or original JPEGs
Online submission of digital photographs via the website. NO IMAGES OF CAPTIVE wildlife!
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 — 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.