The Big Picture 2025 Photo Competition, hosted by the California Academy of Sciences, is now open for submissions! Celebrating its 12th year, this globally recognized contest invites photographers from all walks of life to showcase their talent and contribute to raising awareness about nature, wildlife, and conservation. With a grand prize of $5,000 and additional cash awards for winners across several categories, this competition is an incredible opportunity to gain recognition and support efforts to protect the planet.
Participants can enter under seven exciting categories, ranging from Terrestrial Wildlife and Winged Life to the thought-provoking Human/Nature theme. The contest also features a unique Photo Story category, encouraging photographers to tell captivating stories with a series of 6–8 images. Big Picture 2025 offers a platform to elevate your work and advocate for the beauty and diversity of life on Earth.
Submissions are open from December 1, 2024, to March 1, 2025, giving entrants ample time to prepare their entries. Winners will be announced by June 30, 2025, with winning images exhibited at the California Academy of Sciences. Entry fees start at $25 for up to 10 single images and $15 for a Photo Story submission, ensuring accessibility to photographers worldwide.
Big Picture’s emphasis on ethical photography and its mission to inspire conservation make it an excellent contest for both aspiring and seasoned photographers. With its global reach and commitment to impactful storytelling, this competition is a standout in any list of photography competitions online.
The Big Picture 2025 prizes
Winning a Big Picture 2025 award is not just about the cash prizes; it’s about gaining international recognition and making a meaningful impact through your work. With a strong focus on nature and conservation, this competition rewards photographers whose images tell compelling stories of the natural world.
Highlights of the Prizes
- Grand Prize: $5,000 for the best overall image.
- Category Winners: Each category winner receives $1,000.
- Finalists: Recognition through exhibition at the California Academy of Sciences.
By participating, photographers join a legacy of artists whose work resonates with audiences worldwide. Whether you aim to showcase your skills, make a statement, or contribute to conservation efforts, these prizes offer a platform to elevate your work.
Themes and Categories of the Big Picture 2025
Big Picture’s categories are thoughtfully curated to highlight the vast richness of life on Earth. Each category provides a platform for photographers to explore different aspects of the natural world, from majestic wildlife to intricate ecosystems.
- Terrestrial Wildlife: Land-based mammals, reptiles, and non-flying insects.
- Winged Life: Birds and flying insects, including flightless birds like penguins.
- Landscapes, Waterscapes & Flora: Unique perspectives of wild places, both terrestrial and aquatic.
- Aquatic Life: Marine and freshwater creatures.
- Art of Nature: Abstract representations of life and science.
- Human/Nature: Stories of humans’ interactions with the environment.
- Photo Story—In My Backyard: A 6–8 image series that captures local natural wonders.
Whether you prefer capturing sweeping landscapes or intricate details, these categories provide an avenue to showcase your vision. Select the category that aligns with your work and let your creativity shine.
Big Picture 2025 Photo Competition dates and entry fees
Participating in Big Picture 2025 is straightforward, with accessible entry fees and a clear timeline. Whether submitting a single image or a photo story, participants can plan their entries to meet the deadlines and avoid last-minute uploads.
Important Dates
- Contest Opens: December 1, 2024.
- Submission Deadline: March 1, 2025.
- Winners Announced: June 30, 2025.
Entry Fees
- $25 for up to 10 single image submissions.
- $15 for each 6–8 image photo story.
These fees support the contest prizes and the Academy’s mission of conservation. With ample time to prepare and reasonable costs, the competition is designed to encourage wide participation while maintaining its high standards.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.
