The 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest will begin accepting entries at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The contest is a joint project between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama Tourism Department. The deadline to enter is October 31, 2025.
“Alabama’s abundant wildlife, public lands and outdoor recreation opportunities make it the perfect destination for outdoor photography,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner. “Each year, nearly two thousand images are entered in the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest by some of the best amateur photographers in our state and across the country. We are honored to showcase their work and look forward to seeing the many incredible photos entered in the 2026 contest.”
The 2026 photo contest will focus on traditional photography techniques and the use of handheld cameras. No cellphone, smartphone, game camera, or drone photography will be chosen as winning photos for nine of the 10 categories. Smartphone and tablet photos will be accepted in the Young Photographers category.
The photo contest is open to state residents and visitors alike, but qualifying photos must have been taken in Alabama in the past two years. Any amateur photographer not employed by ADCNR is encouraged to enter.
A total of 10 photos per person may be entered in the following categories. You may enter all 10 in one category or among several categories.
2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Categories
- Alabama State Parks
- Birds
- Bugs and Butterflies
- Cold-blooded Critters
- Nature-Based Recreation
- Scenic
- Shoots and Roots
- Sweet Home Alabama
- Wildlife
- Young Photographers (ages 17 and under)
First, second, third and one honorable mention will be awarded in each category. Winning images will be featured online and in a traveling exhibit at various venues across the state during 2026. The 2025 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit is currently on display at the South Huntsville Public Library, in Huntsville, Alabama, until September 23, 2025. To view the complete exhibit schedule, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photo-exhibit.
Art teachers are encouraged to incorporate participation in the Young Photographers category into their art instruction this fall.
For complete 2026 category descriptions, contest rules and sponsors, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photocontest.
ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.
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