Local photographers seeking publication and cash prizes can now submit their work to the annual Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo contest, which remains open for entries according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The competition highlights the state’s native flora and fauna while offering participants a chance to secure a spot on official agency publications.
Contest Categories and Submission Guidelines
Participants can submit images across multiple seasonal brackets, featuring first-, second-, and third-place prizes for each category according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The organization structures entries around distinct subcategories including birds, insects, flora, recreation, landscapes, weather and wonder, and wildlife. Photographers must complete their submissions online before the August 1 deadline, following all published rules and technical requirements provided by the agency.
Prizes, Calendars, and the Fan Favorite Vote
The overall grand prize winner receives $700 in prize money, a one-year Maryland State Park Passport, and five copies of the 2027 calendar featuring their winning photograph on the cover, as stated by the Maryland Department of Natural resources. In addition to the judged tiers, the contest features a “Fan Favorite” award decided by popular vote on Facebook. The image gathering the most “likes” earns publication in the calendar alongside a complimentary Maryland State Park Passport and free calendars.
Pro Tip: Review the seasonal subcategories carefully before submitting. Ensuring your image clearly fits categories like weather and wonder or recreation can help your work stand out among judges.
Previous Winners and Hard Card Expansion
Last year’s top honors went to photographer Christopher Michael for a detailed capture of a river otter, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Beyond the annual calendar, the agency is actively seeking select imagery to feature on its hard cards, expanding the visual footprint for winning local photographers.
Did You Know? The grand prize winner not only receives a cash award but also secures the cover spot on the official state calendar distributed the following year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline to enter the Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo contest?
The submission window closes on August 1, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
What do the contest winners receive?
The grand prize winner receives $700, a one-year Maryland State Park Passport, and five copies of the 2027 calendar featuring their photo on the cover, per the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
How is the Fan Favorite winner chosen?
The Fan Favorite is selected by popular vote on Facebook, determined by which photo accumulates the most “likes,” according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Ready to share your best nature photography with the state? Visit the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources website to review the full guidelines, submit your seasonal entries before the August 1 deadline, and join the conversation in the comments below.