Organizer Information
The South Australian Museum, based in Adelaide (Australia), is a globally recognised institution devoted to natural sciences and cultural heritage. It is renowned for its research, exhibitions, and public engagement, drawing on deep scientific collections and extensive educational programming. The Museum owns and produces the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year (NPOTY) competition, supported by Australian Geographic, making it one of the region’s most respected photography competitions focused on the natural world.
Title & Description
Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2026
This annual international photography competition celebrates excellence in nature photography, calling on photographers to submit powerful images that capture the beauty, complexity and vulnerability of the natural environment across the ANZANG bioregion (Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea). The competition promotes artistic creativity and environmental awareness through striking photographic storytelling. Selected works are exhibited at the South Australian Museum and may tour nationally.
Categories
Photography entries are accepted across the following categories:
- Animals in Nature
- Animal Behaviour
- Botanical
- Macro
- Landscape
- Threatened Species
- Monochrome
- Our Impact
- Portfolio
- Junior Photographer (under 18)
Eligibility
- Open internationally; photographers from around the world may enter.
- All photographers using digital or film cameras are encouraged to participate.
- Junior category restricted to photographers under 18 years at the close of entries.
- Staff and immediate families of the South Australian Museum and competition partners are not eligible to enter.
Program Benefits & Awards
Cash Prizes:
- Overall Winner: A$10,000 cash
- Open Category Winners: A$1,500 each
- Category Runners-Up: A$500 each
- Best Portfolio Award: A$1,500
- Junior Winner: A$500; Runner-up: A$250
- People’s Choice Winner: A$500 (voted by exhibition visitors)
Exhibition & Exposure:
Finalists and winning images are showcased at the South Australian Museum and included in promotional publications and social media – increasing visibility within the photographic and arts community.
Application Fee
- First image: A$38 (inclusive of GST)
- Each additional image: A$22
- Junior entries: A$10 for the first image; A$5 for additional entries
Application Requirements
Applicants must provide, for each entry:
- Digital image files (in JPG format) with appropriate technical specifications (e.g., size/quality compliant with guidelines).
- Basic metadata, including title, location, camera details, and date taken.
- Contact information (name, email, address).
Details on technical and ethical photo standards are provided in the competition rules.
How to Apply
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 February 2026
- Winner Announcement: 27 August 2026
- Exhibition Dates: Finalist exhibition scheduled at the South Australian Museum (dates typically in late August–early 2026 season) – check official site for specifics.
Location
Adelaide, Australia
Additional Details
- Photos must depict natural fauna, flora, landscapes or phenomena taken within the defined ANZANG bioregion.
- Up to four images may be submitted per category.
- Strict photographic integrity guidelines apply (image manipulation restrictions, ethical standards).
- Works selected for exhibition may be used for promotional purposes and publications.