WYOMING — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s (WGFD) annual Wyoming Wildlife Photo Contest is now open to photographers of all ages and skill levels.
The winning entries will be published in the February 2026 issue of Wyoming Wildlife magazine. All images of Wyoming’s flora and fauna are welcome to be submitted. Last year, WGFD received more than 3,000 submissions. Images of a fleeing fawn, gray wolves guarding a carcass and a red-tailed hawk taking flight were just a few of the wildlife entries that took top prizes.
“Each year, the judges are blown away by the phenomenal photos captured from all over the state,” Wyoming Wildlife Editor Tracie Binkerd said in a statement.
The grand prize winner for the best overall photo receives $600, donated by this year’s contest sponsor, The Wyldlife Fund. Prizes also are given to first, second and third places, as well as honorable mention recognition in four categories:
- Wildlife: Wild mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and arthropods. Priority will be given to species managed by WGFD.
- Scenic: Landmarks, scenery or inanimate objects that are prominent.
- Recreation: People enjoying the outdoors through hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking, etc. Priority will be given to those activities that contribute to WGFD’s mission of “Conserving Wildlife, Serving People.”
- Flora: Wildflowers, foliage, fruiting bodies or other parts of plants.
Contestants can submit up to 10 photos across all four categories. Photos must have been taken in Wyoming and cannot have been previously printed or taken on assignment for Wyoming Wildlife. Contest rules and submission guidelines can be found on the contest entry page. Entries must be submitted before midnight on Monday, Nov. 17.
For questions, contact WGFD Photo Contest Coordinator and Wyoming Wildlife Creative Director Patrick Owen at (307) 777-4547 or patrick.owen@wyo.gov.
