NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s 12th annual Wildlife and Nature Photo Contest is open for submissions from now until August 31, 2026.
“Canadian Smoke Hits the Roans” by Jacob Black won 2nd Place in the Landscape category. Black is a farm-raised nature photographer from Portland, TN, with a lifelong passion for the outdoors.
The contest invites photographers of all skill levels to share their best images of Tennessee’s wildlife, landscapes, and people enjoying the outdoors. Winning photos in various categories can include everything from breathtaking mountain vistas and quiet moments on the water to striking wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures with family and friends.
The Federation wants to see what inspires you about the Volunteer State’s natural beauty. Last year the 20 winners were selected from more than 1,600 photos submitted by 134 photographers from 84 cities in eight different states.
“Morning Fishing” by Jay Huron won 2nd Place in the “People in Nature” category last year. Huron is an avid photographer from East Tennessee.
Prizes will be awarded for winning photos of wildlife, landscapes, and people enjoying Tennessee’s natural spaces, with prize support provided by Bass Pro Shops stores of Tennessee.
“Looking My Way” by Daniel Vineyard, Monthly Photo Winner. Vineyard discovered photography as a fulfilling new hobby after retiring. He finds joy in capturing the beauty of both wildlife and landscapes.
Photographers may submit up to three photos with a $10 suggested donation or enter unlimited photos for a $25 donation. As a thank-you, photographers who donate $25 will receive a copy of the 2027 Tennessee Wildlife Federation calendar. All donations directly support the Federation’s work to conserve Tennessee’s wildlife, waters, and wild places.
A panel of judges will select standout entries for inclusion in the Federation’s 2027 calendar and to be featured across its digital platforms, which reach hundreds of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts each year. The public will also help select a People’s Choice winner through online voting beginning September 8, 2026.
“Tsuchinshan Atlas Comet In Between Clouds and Moonlight Below” by Matthew Smith won 3rd Place in the “People in Nature” category. Smith is a 33-year-old bike shop manager from Huntsville, AL. He picked up photography about 3 years ago and now spends his time off work photographing caves, mountains, and everything in between throughout the Southeast.
The deadline to submit photos is 11:59 p.m. CT on August 31, 2026.
Go here for complete contest guidelines and to enter your photos.