The Milvus Photocontest 2025 is an internationally recognized competition celebrating the art of nature photography. Organized by the Milvus Group in collaboration with FORONA, the Romanian Nature Photographers Association, this annual contest has become a cornerstone of Romania’s nature photography scene. With a tradition spanning 15 years, it invites both amateur and professional photographers from around the globe to capture and share the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
The competition features four categories: Nature, Wild Animals, Romanian Nature, and Junior, ensuring an inclusive platform for photographers of all skill levels and ages. From sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits of wildlife, participants are encouraged to use their lenses to highlight the value of nature and inspire a deeper appreciation for its role in our lives.
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 offers a total prize pool of over €3,000, including the coveted Grand Prize of €750, a guided photo tour in the Danube Delta for two, and the prestigious Milvus Trophy. Submissions are open between January 20 and March 20, 2025, and winners will be announced in May 2025, with an awards ceremony and exhibition opening on June 8, 2025. With a modest entry fee of €20, this competition is an excellent opportunity for photographers passionate about nature to gain recognition and showcase their work on an international stage.
While the contest offers substantial prizes and professional exposure, its true value lies in its mission to use the visual power of photography to raise awareness about the importance of nature conservation. This makes it one of the most meaningful nature photo competitions for photographers who wish to combine their artistry with environmental advocacy.
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 Prizes
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 rewards creativity, technical skill, and a commitment to showcasing nature’s beauty. The prizes not only include cash awards but also unique opportunities and recognition for the winners.
- Grand Prize:
- €750 cash prize.
- Milvus Trophy.
- A wildlife-guided photo tour in the Danube Delta for two, offered by Descoperă Delta Dunării.
- Category Prizes (Nature, Wild Animals, Romanian Nature):
- First Place: Certificate of Merit and €300.
- Second Place: Certificate of Merit and €200.
- Third Place: Certificate of Merit and a copy of the photographic album Terra Silva by Dorin Bofan.
- Junior Category Prize:
- Certificate of Merit.
- Photography books pack (Wild Romania by Dan Dinu and Vâlcea Naturală by Daniel Mîrlea).
- Public Award:
- Certificate of Merit and a gift package from the Milvus Group (based on Facebook votes).
These awards highlight the competition’s dedication to promoting nature photography while providing winners with tangible rewards and unforgettable experiences.
Themes and Categories of the Milvus Photocontest 2025
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 features four distinct categories, offering opportunities for various styles and subjects in nature photography:
- Nature: This category focuses on wild plants, fungi, landscapes, and nature details. While animals may appear in the frame, they must be part of their natural environment, with no man-made elements featured prominently.
- Wild Animals: Dedicated to wildlife photography, this category showcases images of wild animals in their natural habitats, including close-ups, portraits, and behavior-focused scenes.
- Romanian Nature: Exclusively for Romanian residents, this category highlights images of wildlife, landscapes, and plants within Romania.
- Junior: Open to photographers under the age of 16 (as of March 21, 2025), this category encourages young talents to explore nature photography. Entries in this category are free.
These categories ensure a wide range of themes and provide a platform for diverse talent.
Milvus Photocontest 2025 Dates and Entry Fees
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 has a straightforward timeline, offering a clear structure for photographers interested in participating.
- Photo Submission Period: January 20 – March 20, 2025.
- Raw Files Request: April 2025.
- Public Voting Period: May 2025.
- Winners Announced: May 2025.
- Awards Ceremony and Exhibition Opening: June 8, 2025.
Entry Fees:
- General Participation: €20.
- Junior Category: Free of charge.
The entry fee of €20 for general participation and free access for junior photographers make this Milvus Photocontest 2025 an excellent opportunity for those looking to showcase their talent. As one of the noteworthy photography competitions to enter, it provides a platform to connect with a global audience and gain recognition for outstanding work.
About the Jury
The competition will be judged by a panel of experienced and well-respected nature photographers:
- Dan Dinu: Internationally recognized nature photographer and author.
- Dorin Bofan: Nature photographer known for his evocative landscapes and creative vision.
- Kerekes István: Award-winning wildlife and portrait photographer.
- Daniel Mîrlea: Renowned for his work documenting Romania’s natural beauty.
- Zoltán Gergely-Nagy: Accomplished photographer with a focus on wildlife and environmental themes.
This expert jury ensures that every submission is evaluated fairly and professionally, with a focus on creativity, originality, and technical quality.
Why Enter the Milvus Photocontest 2025?
The Milvus Photocontest 2025 offers much more than cash prizes. It provides a platform for photographers to share their passion for nature, gain exposure, and contribute to raising awareness about conservation. The competition’s long-standing reputation, combined with its focus on environmental advocacy, makes it a meaningful choice for photographers who want their work to have an impact.
By participating, you’ll have the chance to be recognized by an esteemed jury, showcase your talent in a prominent exhibition, and connect with like-minded individuals. For budding talents, especially juniors, the contest offers an invaluable opportunity to develop their skills and gain early recognition. With its inclusive approach and commitment to supporting photographers, the Milvus Photocontest is a worthwhile endeavor for nature photography enthusiasts.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.
