Organizer Information
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with over 120 years of history dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats across the Western Hemisphere. Audubon integrates scientific research, community engagement, and advocacy to safeguard ecosystems that sustain avian populations and biodiversity. The organization champions educational initiatives and public involvement to inspire environmental stewardship, uniting millions of members, local chapters, and supporters in efforts to conserve bird species and environmental health. The Audubon Photography Awards series is one of its most esteemed programs, celebrating the beauty and diversity of birdlife while raising awareness about conservation issues through compelling photographic storytelling.
Title & Description
Audubon Photography Awards 2026
The Audubon Photography Awards 2026 is an annual international photography and videography competition that celebrates birds, bird behavior, and the ecosystems they inhabit. Open to residents of the United States, Canada (excluding Quebec), Chile, and Colombia, this competition invites photographers and videographers of all skill levels — from emerging to professional — to submit striking and thoughtful images that showcase birds in their natural environments. Participants compete for cash prizes, special recognitions, and the opportunity to be featured prominently in Audubon’s publications and digital galleries. The 2026 edition expands across the Western Hemisphere, reflecting the interconnectedness of bird life, and underscores the urgency of bird conservation through visual storytelling.
Categories
The competition accepts submissions in various visual formats, including:
- Photography (still images of birds and avian behaviors)
- Video (short films capturing bird activity and natural contexts)
Applications are evaluated across multiple themed categories, including a grand prize, video awards, and specialized recognitions relating to bird species, landscapes, conservation, and migratory behavior.
Eligibility
- International applicants from specific regions:
- United States and Canada (excluding Quebec residents)
- Chile and Colombia
- Must be at least 13 years of age, with youth entrants (13–17) requiring parental/guardian submission assistance.
- Photographers and videographers of all experience levels are welcome.
- Residents of other countries may need to consult Audubon’s regional contests or official guidelines.
Program Benefits & Awards
Participants in the Audubon Photography Awards 2026 have the chance to receive:
- US$5,000 Grand Prize for winning entries.
- A unique expedition experience to Antarctica with HX Expeditions for Grand Prize winners, combining birdwatching, exploration, and conservation learning.
- Additional recognitions in themed categories, including conservation imagery, migratory birds, and youth awards.
- Publication and promotional exposure through Audubon magazine and featured galleries on Audubon’s online platforms.
Selected works may be exhibited digitally throughout the year, and winning photographers gain notable visibility within international photography and conservation communities.
Application Fee
- Chile & Colombia residents: Free entry.
- United States & Canada residents: Entry fee applies ($15 USD per image/video; no fee for Youth division submissions).
- No purchase necessary to participate.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit online:
- Completed entry forms
- Photographic images or video files meeting contest specifications
- Contact information and identification details (age, residency)
- Parent/guardian consent, where applicable, for youth participants
Exact technical specifications, file formats, and image requirements are detailed in the official contest rules.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 March 2026
- Notification of Winners: By July 2026
- Prize Announcement & Publication: Featured in the Fall 2026 edition of Audubon magazine.
Location
United States, Canada (excl. Quebec), Chile, and Colombia
Additional Details
- Participants may submit multiple entries depending on regional rules and category limits.
- Entries must be original works by the entrant, respecting ethical guidelines and wildlife welfare, especially in photography and videography contexts.
- All contest decisions and prize verifications are subject to official rules and legal compliance in participating countries.
- Winning images are showcased across Audubon’s digital channels and may be used for promotional purposes as permitted by contest terms.