Short Description
National Wildlife® magazine’s 54th annual photo contest is now open for submissions through March 23, 2025. All entries support the conservation mission of the National Wildlife Federation, ensuring wildlife and people thrive in a rapidly changing world. Amateur and professional photographers alike are encouraged to share their best images of wildlife and wild lands, from around the world and their own backyards.
Eligibility
NWPC is open to all photographers worldwide who are at least 13 years of age, except employees and board members of NWF, their immediate families, and individuals living in the same household as such employees and board members (“Entrants”). NWF reserves the right to verify, in its sole judgment, Entrants eligibility. Entrants 13 to 17 years of age (“Youth Entrants”) MUST enter only the Youth category (described below) and MUST obtain verified parental or guardian consent as set forth herein prior to entering the NWPC. Entrants 18 years or older (“General Entrants”) are prohibited from entering the Youth category.
We are looking for striking color and black-and-white images of nature—on land, in the air and beneath the water’s surface—from anywhere in the world. From backyard habitats to wild lands, these images may show animal behavior, portraits of wildlife in natural habitats, plant life, natural landscapes, or people interacting with nature. Do not include photographs of pets, domestic animals, captive animals at game farms or roadside zoos, or animals from such facilities photographed elsewhere with handler’s control. Such images will be disqualified.
We welcome submissions in nine categories:
• Birds: Of any species
• Mammals: Of any species
• Baby Animals: Young of any species
• Other Wildlife: Underwater life, reptiles, amphibians, insects, spiders, macro and more
• Landscapes & Plants: From broad vistas to single blooms
• People in Nature: Responsibly enjoying wildlife or the outdoors
• Mobile: Taken with phones or tablets
• Young Nature Photographers: Open to ages 13 to 17
• Portfolio: A collection of up to 10 images built around a common theme related to nature or conservation
Submission Requirements
All photos must be submitted with complete required information including their subjects, dates, locations and any digital adjustments made to the image. The judges use this information to help them select the winners. Not providing full information may disqualify your entry by the judges.
How to Apply
Online Application
Program Benefits & Awards:
A panel of judges will award the following prizes:
- Grand Prize: One winner receives a cash prize of $5,000.
- Portfolio Prize: One winner receives a cash prize of $750.
- First Place: One winner in each of the eight subject categories receives a cash prize of $500.
- Second Place: One winner in each of the eight subject categories receives a cash prize of $250.
- Honorable Mentions: Each receives a certificate of distinction and a National Wildlife Federation calendar.
In addition to cash prizes, the Grand Prize, Portfolio, and all First and Second Place winners will be announced in a press release, highlighted through our social media channels and published in print and/or online in the Winter 2026 issue of National Wildlife magazine. Photo contest entrants are also eligible for the People’s Choice Award. Anyone 13 years of age or older can support their favorites and vote!
One grand prize winner will receive $5,000. The winner of the portfolio category receives $750. In each of the eight additional categories, first place wins $500, and second place wins $250. Winners will be announced in a press release, featured on our social media channels and published in print and/or online. Photo contest entrants are also eligible for the People’s Choice award. Anyone 13 years of age or older can get in on the fun and vote!
Entry Fee:
There is no limit on the number of submissions allowed per entrant. Packages include:
- Enter up to 15 photos for $25: BEST VALUE, includes free one-year digital subscription to National Wildlife magazine
- Enter up to 10 photos for $20
- Enter one photo for $15
- Enter one Portfolio for $20; can be combined with any other entry package
Location:
United States
Timeline:
Application Deadline: 23 March 2025
Website Link: Photo Contest | National Wildlife Federation
