The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, organised by the Natural History Museum in London, is one of the most prestigious platforms for nature photographers around the globe. Since its inception, it has celebrated the creativity, skill, and dedication of photographers who capture the beauty and complexity of the natural world. The competition aims to inspire a deeper connection with nature while raising awareness of critical environmental issues through powerful and thought-provoking imagery. With categories for both adults and young photographers, the competition encourages participants to creatively showcase wildlife and habitats from all over the world.
Each year, the competition receives thousands of entries from photographers of all experience levels, ranging from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic amateurs. To ensure authenticity, strict ethical guidelines are enforced. Photographs must depict wild animals or plants in their natural environments without manipulation, emphasizing the truthful and respectful portrayal of nature. Judges seek images that not only demonstrate technical excellence but also tell compelling stories about the relationship between humans and wildlife, the fragility of ecosystems, and the importance of conservation efforts. The competition embraces various themes such as animal behavior, landscapes, and environmental reportage.
Winners of the competition gain international recognition, as their images are showcased in a major exhibition at the Natural History Museum, which later tours across multiple countries. Alongside the honor of winning, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year title comes with substantial cash prizes for the grand title and category winners. The competition’s wide media coverage ensures that winning photographers’ works are seen by millions worldwide, making it a powerful platform for conservation messaging and artistic exposure.
The entry fee for the adult competition is £30, rising to £35 in the final week before the deadline.
Eligibility
Open to photographers worldwide, both amateur and professional, with entries required to depict non-captive wildlife.
Prize
The competition offers several prestigious awards. The overall winner receives the Grand Title of Wildlife Photographer of the Year, along with a cash prize. Category winners and highly commended entries also receive significant recognition. In addition to monetary rewards, the winning photographs are displayed in a renowned exhibition that tours globally, bringing worldwide exposure to the winning photographers.