The 2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest is closing soon. Enter today!

 

Now in its 54th year, the prestigious National Wildlife® Photo Contest celebrates wildlife, habitats and the natural world, with an emphasis on conservation and ethical photography honoring the well-being of animals in the wild. All entries support the National Wildlife Federation's conservation mission, which is dedicated to saving wildlife species and habitats. 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.


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

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!


Modest entry fees support the National Wildlife Federation’s conservation work, and your photos inspire our millions of members and supporters to care about wildlife and to act on its behalf. Prizes are made possible by the entry fee; no NWF funds are used for these prizes.

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

 

Consider donating your photos: The National Wildlife Federation greatly appreciates photographers who choose to donate images. These donations help support our mission of protecting wildlife and their habitats. Photographers who donate images to NWF retain ownership and rights. See contest rules for more information on donating photos.

 

Become a member: You can further support our mission by becoming a member of the National Wildlife Federation, which entitles you to receive National Wildlife magazine as a benefit of membership. Learn how to join and receive the magazine.

 

To enter and share your work, please register or login by scrolling up to the top right corner of this page.

 


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The National Wildlife Federation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
PO Box 1583, Merrifield, VA 22116-1583
1-800-822-9919 (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST)

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