Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025 - Young Competition

• Natural History Museum

• Deadline: December 5th, 2024

• Category: Wildlife

• Prize: £1,500 + Exhibition in London

• Entry Fees: Free

• REGISTRATION: CLOSED. Click HERE for more Opportunities

Wildlife Photographer of the Year, hosted annually by the Natural History Museum, stands as one of the foremost platforms where the worlds of photography, science, and art converge to celebrate nature in all its glory. The competition seeks to elevate the way we perceive and engage with wildlife, transforming it from a distant spectacle into an intimate and artistic portrayal of the natural world. It highlights the power of photography as not only a creative expression but also a scientific tool that captures critical moments in wildlife behavior, habitat, and the delicate ecosystems that sustain life on Earth.

Launched in 1965 as a small-scale contest run by a wildlife magazine, the competition’s origins were modest, attracting just 361 submissions. Over the decades, it has expanded beyond its initial scope to become one of the most prestigious photography awards worldwide. Today, more than 45,000 entries flood in each year from photographers across the globe. This vast participation reflects both the universal passion for wildlife and the competition's broad appeal, welcoming contributions from professionals and amateurs alike, united by their love for nature.

The success of Wildlife Photographer of the Year is not only seen in its growing number of entries but also in its global reach. The winners are celebrated in a grand exhibition at the Natural History Museum, drawing thousands of visitors. However, this is only the beginning. The exhibition embarks on a global tour, traveling to over 100 venues across six continents, reaching millions of viewers in cities large and small. Through this tour, audiences are given the chance to engage with breathtaking wildlife photography that brings them closer to the wonders and vulnerabilities of the natural world.

What sets this competition apart is its ability to balance artistic merit with ecological awareness. The images serve as visual narratives, telling stories about species on the brink of extinction, the impact of human activities on nature, and the resilience of wildlife in the face of environmental challenges. Wildlife Photographer of the Year is not just about celebrating photographic talent; it’s a call to action, reminding us of our responsibility to protect and conserve the environment.

As the competition continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of excellence in photography, pushing the boundaries of what the medium can achieve in the realms of both art and conservation. It serves as a platform for raising environmental consciousness and inspiring a global audience to connect with, respect, and preserve the natural world.