Wildlife Photographer of the Year

What it is

Annual wildlife photography competition and exhibition celebrating the relationship between photography and nature. Adult photographers submit up to 25 photos across 19 categories. Young photographers aged 17 and under submit up to 10 photos to their age bracket. Judging is anonymous and emphasizes originality, narrative, and ethical wildlife photography practice.

Who it is for

Photographers aged 18 and over, or photographers under 18 for the Young WPY competition.

Eligibility unconfirmed. Check the residency and nationality rules on the source before applying.

Where

International

When

December 3, 2026

Runs October 19, 2026 to March 12, 2027

What you get

Chance to display images in an exhibition in London and at venues worldwide, international media coverage, invitation to the awards ceremony, possible feature in a short film, and prizes for category and grand title winners.

What you need to apply

• Photographs, 25 required
• Evidence of residency for fee exemption (if applicable)

How long it takes

About 2 days of work

Long application. Estimated from the 2 items this application asks for, not from the organisation.

Cost to apply

£35 for adult competition (free for ages 18-26, residents of specified African, Central/South American, or Asia-Pacific

Apply

https://www.nhm.ac.uk/wpy/competition