The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is currently accepting entries for the 2027 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. The deadline to enter is October 30, 2026.
“Each year, nearly two thousand images are entered in the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest by some of the best amateur photographers in our state and from across the country,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner. “Their photos showcase the abundant wildlife, public lands and outdoor recreation opportunities that make Alabama the perfect destination for outdoor photography. We are honored to highlight their work and look forward to seeing the incredible photos entered in the 2027 contest.”
The 2027 photo contest will focus on traditional photography techniques and the use of handheld cameras. No cellphone, smartphone, game camera, or drone photography will be chosen as winning photos for nine of the 10 categories. Smartphone and tablet photos will be accepted in the Young Photographers category.
The photo contest is open to state residents and visitors alike, but qualifying photos must have been taken in Alabama in the past two years. Any amateur photographer not employed by ADCNR is encouraged to enter.
A total of 10 photos per person may be entered in the following categories. You may enter all 10 in one category or among several categories. First, second, third and one honorable mention will be awarded in each category.
2027 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Categories
- Alabama State Parks
- Birds
- Bugs and Butterflies
- Cold-blooded Critters
- Nature-Based Recreation
- Scenic
- Shoots and Roots
- Sweet Home Alabama
- Wildlife
- Young Photographers (ages 17 and under)
The winning images will be featured online and in a traveling exhibit at various venues across the state during 2027. The 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit is currently on display at the Oak Mountain State Park Interpretive Center in Pelham until September 16. Additionally, the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Retrospective is currently on display at the Georgine Clarke Alabama Artists Gallery in downtown Montgomery until September 25. The show is free to attend and features winning images from the 2021-2025 contests. To view the complete exhibit schedule, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photo-exhibit.
For complete 2027 category descriptions, contest rules and sponsors, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photocontest.
ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.
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