There are many challenges to the natural world and its incredible biodiversity. According to the IUCN Red List, biodiversity continues to decline, with more than 40,000 species currently threatened with extinction. But there are many success stories as well, so this category can include images of all living creatures and plant life anywhere in the world – in the air, on the ground or in the water – not just endangered ones. It can also include images which show the positive effects of scientific research and conservation.
In a portfolio of four images (colour or black & white) we would like you to show us the incredible life (non-human) of our planet.
ALL finalists in the portfolio categories will be considered for one of two special judges’ awards. The two selected finalists (who can come from any of the four portfolio categories) will have a portfolio review by a leading New York photographer’s agent.
By entering this category twice, or entering this category once plus one of the other four-image portfolio categories once, you will automatically be considered for the top award and the title of Travel Photographer of the Year 2023.
What subjects can you include?
Animals, birds, insects, flora and fauna, fish and other sealife. Subjects may be photographed as portraits or close ups, or within their environment, including aspects of behaviour and conservation. Images of the landscape or of human life should be entered in the Landscape & Environment or People & Cultures categories respectively.
How many images?
Four images per portfolio.
What are the judges looking for?
A portfolio of four related images that show the biodiversity of the natural world, and the challenges it faces.
Am I eligible?
This category is open to all photographers aged 19 and above.
How many times can I enter?
You can enter this category as many times as you like.
What is the category entry fee?
Entry options:
- £20 for one four-image portfolio entry
OR
- £30 for two four-image portfolios.
OR
- ‘Two Plus Four’ 12-image combination of 4 MPB One Shot entries and 2 four-image portfolios entered at the same time for £50 (full price £70 if entered individually).
Do I need to shoot new material to be able to enter this category?
No! We have always allowed entrants to submit images from their archives – i.e. contemporary photography shot in recent years – and have always said that ‘travel starts when you leave your home’. So it’s your choice. you can travel local or travel further afield. Entries close on 1st October.
Digital Manipulation
Please see the information on digital manipulation and note that entrants who are shortlisted as finalists will be required to provide the original image files (RAW or jpeg as shot).
No AI generated images will be allowed and any entered will be disqualified.
Prize
The winner of this category will receive £1000, membership of The Royal Photographic Society, Radiant Photo imaging software, plus copies of Tonic magazine.
The judges will also select their favourite image from all the submitted portfolios. The winner of the Best Single Image award for each portfolio category receives a Genesis Imaging giclée exhibition print.
Special portfolio category award: ALL finalists in the portfolio categories will be considered for one of two special judges’ awards. The two selected finalists (who can come from any of the four portfolio categories) will have a portfolio review by a leading New York photographer’s agent.
Header Image © yaron schmid
Our sponsors and partners
It would not be possible to run Travel Photographer of the Year without the support of our sponsors and partners, and we are hugely grateful for their involvement each year. Click the logo to learn more about each of Travel Photographer of the Year’s sponsor and partners.
