International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition)
The International Aerial Photographer of the Year is the sister competition to International Landscape Photographer of the Year, in its 2nd edition for 2026. Submissions closed on 30 April. The competition's stated philosophy is to have one firm rule and no categories: 'you can't use AI to generate content.' Minor AI retouching for noise reduction or healing is permitted; AI-generated content elements are not.
- Deadline
- April 30, 2026
- Entry fee
- USD 22 per image; every fifth entry is free when entering by 23 April 2026
Authenticity policy
AI policy
We have no categories and really the only rule is that you can't use AI to generate content. AI generated images and composite images with AI generated components are not permitted, though minor AI retouching is acceptable as long as it is not creating new content.
RAW files
Not specified
Editing rules
Sister programme to International Landscape Photographer of the Year. AI generation is the only firm rule; minor AI retouching (noise reduction, healing) is acceptable, but using AI to add new content (e.g., replacing rocks with a pond) is not. After judging, top-101 photos are checked for rule compliance and variety, with a max of four photographs per entrant in the Top 101.
Verified on June 12, 2026
Frequently asked questions
- Does International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition) allow AI-generated images?
- No. International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition) does not permit AI-generated images in its competition entries.
- When is the International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition) entry deadline?
- Entries for International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition) close on April 30, 2026.
- How much does it cost to enter International Aerial Photographer of the Year 2026 (2nd edition)?
- USD 22 per image; every fifth entry is free when entering by 23 April 2026
Do you run a photo contest? See how organizers verify entries