Wildlife Photographer of the Year 62 (2026)
Run by the Natural History Museum in London, Wildlife Photographer of the Year enforces a dual standard: biological fidelity and photographic integrity. The 'computer-rendered' wording closes the CGI loophole. Finalists undergo authenticity checks on their RAW files by an independent technical consultant. The judging panel includes biologists who flag suspicious entries on behavioural grounds before any pixel-level forensics begin — a verification layer unique to wildlife competitions.
- Deadline
- December 4, 2025
- Entry fee
- £35 adult (up to 25 photos); free for 18–26 and waiver-list countries
Authenticity policy
AI policy
AI-generated or computer-rendered photos are not allowed for submission. Photos must be taken with a camera.
RAW files
The Museum has strict processes in place including rigorous testing of the RAW/original files by an independent technical consultant to ensure winning images will never be affected by AI-created or edited images.
Editing rules
Permitted adjustments mirror traditional darkroom techniques: cropping, sensor spot removal, and noise reduction. Removal of any other element is prohibited. Focus stacking and HDR are allowed 'in moderation' but all component RAW files must be available on request.
Verified on June 8, 2026