BigPicture Natural World Photography Competition
by California Academy of Sciences
$5,000
A prestigious global photography contest by the California Academy of Sciences. Win cash prizes and get your work exhibited in a major museum.
Mode
Online
Fee
$25
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Submissions are accepted annually from December 1 to March 1.
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the entry
Eligibility
The competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers worldwide, regardless of age. Employees, volunteers, board members of the California Academy of Sciences, and their immediate families are not eligible to participate.
- Age range
- 6 years and above
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Basic photography skills
- Access to a digital camera
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
$5,000
The Grand Prize winner receives $5,000. First-place winners in each of the seven categories receive $1,000 each.
Certificate
Certificate of Recognition
Up to six finalists in each category are awarded a certificate of recognition for their work.
Recognition
International recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 1 Dec 2025
- Registration closed
- 1 Mar 2026
- Competition
- 1 Dec 2025 to 1 Mar 2026
- Results
- 30 Jun 2026
How to apply
- 1Register on the official BigPicture competition website.
- 2Prepare images according to the specified format (JPEG, sRGB, min 1920px on the long edge).
- 3Submit up to 10 single images per entry fee, or one photo story (6-8 images).
- 4Pay the entry fee online via credit card to complete the submission.
Rules and guidelines
- Entrants retain full ownership and copyright of their submitted photographs.
- Images must not contain watermarks, borders, or signatures.
- Entrants must be prepared to provide original RAW files upon request for verification.
- The objective is to remain faithful to the original experience and to never deceive the viewer or misrepresent the reality of the natural world.
Technology requirements
- Digital camera
- Computer with internet access
- Image editing software (optional)
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Entry fees are $25 USD for up to 10 single image submissions and $15 USD for each Photo Story submission (6-8 images).
Refund policy
Entry fees are non-refundable and support the competition prizes and the Academy's mission.
About this opportunity
The BigPicture Natural World Photography Competition is a prestigious annual event hosted by the California Academy of Sciences, celebrating the rich diversity of life on Earth. It invites photographers globally to submit images that highlight nature's splendor and inspire urgent conservation action through the power of visual storytelling.
Open to all professional and amateur photographers, the competition provides a global platform to showcase talent in capturing everything from grand landscapes to intricate wildlife details. Winners receive significant cash prizes, gain international recognition, and have their work featured in a high-profile exhibition at the California Academy of Sciences, offering unparalleled exposure.
Rounds and format
There is a single round of submission and judging.
How entries are judged
Images are judged based on their artistic composition, technical quality, and the power of the story they tell. The judging panel looks for unique perspectives that evoke emotion and inspire conservation action.
Selection process
Winners are selected by a jury of experts based on the judging criteria. The panel selects one Grand Prize winner, a first-place winner for each of the seven categories, and several finalists per category.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
Frequently asked questions
What are the key elements judges look for in winning photographs?
Judges prioritize artistic composition, technical excellence, and the narrative power of the image. Submissions that evoke emotion and inspire conservation action through unique perspectives are highly regarded.
How can participants effectively convey a compelling story through their photography?
Effective storytelling involves capturing moments that reveal the essence of the natural world, its challenges, or its beauty. Focus on originality, emotional depth, and a clear message that resonates with conservation themes.
What are common mistakes participants should avoid during the submission process?
Common pitfalls include submitting images with watermarks or borders, failing to meet technical specifications (e.g., resolution), and not adhering to the competition's ethical guidelines regarding digital manipulation. Review all rules carefully.
How does the competition support environmental awareness and conservation efforts?
The competition aims to strengthen public understanding of the natural world by showcasing visually compelling and scientifically relevant imagery. Winning entries are exhibited to reach broad audiences and inspire action to protect global biodiversity.
Are there any specific ethical considerations for nature and wildlife photography in this competition?
Participants are expected to adhere to ethical practices, ensuring images faithfully represent the natural world without deception or misrepresentation. Respect for wildlife and habitats is paramount, and no harm should come to subjects during photography.
Share with other parents
Categories
WiWit
Never miss the right opportunities for your child
The WiWit app shows you only the ones that fit your child.
- Matched to your child's grade, age, and interests
- Deadline reminders so you never miss registration
- Every opportunity verified before it's listed
Related opportunities
Global Photography Contest (GPC) Mobile Photography
by iNNOVIZE
An international mobile photography contest for aspiring photographers to showcase creativity, win cash prizes, medals, and achieve global recognition.
What your child could gain:
World of 8 Billion Video Contest
by Population Connection (Population Education)
An international video contest for students in grades 6-12 to create a 60-second video exploring population growth's impact on global issues like energy, winning cash prizes up to $1,200.
What your child could gain:
Youth Climate Conclave Photography Competition
by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
An annual photography competition by TERI inviting Indian youth to showcase positive climate actions through impactful imagery and win national recognition.
What your child could gain:
See what fits your child
Get the free app