Photography Competition 2025

Immerse yourself in a breathtaking visual celebration of Ireland’s wildlife – The Irish deer society Photographer of the year competition!

Opening date – 05th of June 2025.

Closing date – 01st of October 2025.

Winners announced – Mid October 2025.

Why Enter a Wildlife Photography Competition?

There are several compelling reasons to enter a wildlife photography competition. Besides the chance to win awards, you can gain recognition in the photography community.

Participating in such competitions also encourages you to improve your skills, explore new techniques, and expand your creative horizons.

Ultimately, it’s about pushing yourself to capture those breathtaking moments in nature. Moreover, the experience of entering a competition can be incredibly fulfilling; it often involves traveling to remote locations, spending time in nature, and connecting with fellow photographers who share your passion.

These interactions can lead to lasting friendships and collaborations, enriching your journey as a wildlife photographer.

“An animals eyes have the power to speak a great language.”

Categories

  1. U16’s
  2. 16+

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: YOUR GUIDE TO SUCCESS

 Eligibility

  • Adhere to the IDS code of conduct and obtain legal permission from landowners.
  • AI-generated images will not be eligible for submission
  • All photos must be your own with no duplication or watermark
  • Strictly no deceased or maimed animals.
  • Under 16’s must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Amateurs only. No professional photographers.

 Submission Guidelines

  • Feature live wild bird, mammal or invertebrate, showcasing Ireland’s recognised wild animals species.
  • Capture images legally and ethically, respecting the welfare of the wildlife.
  • Submit high-quality digital images (300 dpi or higher) via email.

 Rights and Use

  • Entrants retain sole copyright for each submitted image.
  • Winning photographs may be exhibited, and published on the IDS website, social channels and other activities both digital and physical.
  • You grant IDS permission to use your images to support its work, including the creation of the annual wildlife calendar.

 Prizes and Recognition

  • All winning entries, will receive an official certificate celebrating their achievement.
  • Winning photographs will be put forward for possible selection to appear in our annual wall calendar.
  • Entries will be featured on IDS platforms, including our website, magazine, newsletter, and social channels.
  • U’16 Prizes – €100 Glenview Hotel Wicklow voucher / €50 Kildare village voucher / IDS Polo shirt / IDS Yearly Membership
  • Over 16’s Prizes – Spypoint LM2 Trail cam / €200 Alexandra Taylor Homeopathy voucher / €50 One for all voucher / IDS Polo shirt / IDS Yearly Membership

 General Conditions

  • We have 3 Judges’ and Judges’ decisions are final.
  • Open to everyone (except organising members, IDS staff, judges, and sponsors).
  • Follow the submission guidelines to avoid exclusion.
  • Canvassing on behalf of any candidate will result in disqualification.

Submitting an Entry

Entries can be submitted online via email. If you are submitting via email please ensure the image name includes:
  • Image title
  • Photographer’s name

Contest photographs must be saved in a suitable image format ( jpg/jpeg), 300 dpi or higher and the size of the files should not be less than 2 Mb. Large files can be zipped (compressed) for easier transfer. 2500 pixels longest side in A4 landscape format Images must be emailed to competition@irishdeersociety.ie The subject of the email should be: IDS Photographer of the Year. The body of the email must include:

  • Applicants name
  • Address
  • Telephone number
  • Photo Details – Please tell us about your photos including location, date and which categories you would like to enter.
  • Technical Details – Please tell us more about the technical equipment used to take your photos (optional).
  • Confirmation of Copyright, Permissions and T&Cs*

*You must also confirm the following:

  • That you hold the sole copyright of each photo you entered.
  • That you grant The Irish Deer Society permission to use and share any photos submitted to support the work and the benefit of wildlife.
  • That you have read and agree to the IDS Competition Terms and Conditions.

Failure to include any of these details may result in images being excluded from the competition.

Cost of entry

  • Under 16’s – 1 entry €2.
  • Over 16’s   – 1 entry €2.

Link to payment page below :

 

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