| Copyright | he copyright of all submitted images remains with the copyright holder. Copyright will be credited. Each entrant grants to the Owners a non-exclusive, irrevocable license to reproduce, publish and communicate to the public by any means and exhibit their awarded image(s) and copies of their awarded image(s) in all media throughout the world in relation to the marine conservation work of the Owner, the Competition and the Exhibition |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 15 August 2015 |
| Entry fee | $10 for up to 5 images |
Finished
BirdLife South Africa is pleased to announce the opening of the Oceans of Life Photographic competition. Capture a moment of beautiful marine life, whether that be a plump penguin, ferocious great white, or sleepy seal. The photographs are a celebration of marine life; how amazing nature is, how diverse, beautiful and inspiring it is (and that there’s more to marine biodiversity than protein sources and carbon sinks) But we also use the images to remind ourselves that life is fragile and we need to care for nature as much as we use it.
Prizes:
- First prize is a trip to Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions
- The Youth category (under 18) prize is a Canon EOS 70D digital camera and EF 18-55 mm lens
- Iziko South African Museum’s exhibition hall during October and November
Each entrant may submit a maximum of five images into the Competition, which will be in the Open Category; Youth entries will automatically be included in the Open category and cannot be included as additional submissions.
Image requirements: at least 2000 pixels on longest side (equivalent to 4 megapixels), but no bigger than 6000 pixels on longest side (and no larger than 23 megapixels), and should be at a resolution of at 300 dpi or higher, but no less than 150 dpi. Digitally manipulated, enhanced or edited images are not permitted outside normal allowances for cropping, colour and exposure correction. Panoramas or stitched images are permitted but are discouraged, as they do not display well in comparison with images of standard or cropped dimensions.
Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
OFFICIAL 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 — Photography exhibition contests
Who can enter photography exhibition contests?
Most exhibition contests welcome photographers with cohesive bodies of work—emerging to mid-career artists. Some prioritize thematic series or conceptual depth; review curatorial guidelines to ensure your project aligns with the venue's vision.
Are exhibition contests free to enter?
Few are free; most charge $15–$50 per submission, with portfolio or series entries priced higher. Entry fees and early-bird discounts are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do exhibition contests offer?
Prizes emphasize physical or virtual presentation: gallery exhibition slots, group show inclusion, catalog features, press coverage, or artist talks. Cash awards are less common but may range $1,000–$5,000 for top honors.
How do I choose which exhibition contest to enter?
Match your series to the venue's curatorial focus and research past exhibitions for aesthetic alignment. Verify technical specs (print size, framing, digital format), review shipping or installation requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some exhibitions request display or promotional usage rights.
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.