The Wings over the Rockies 2026 Photo Contest is back and photographers of all ages and experience levels are invited to celebrate the natural world through imagery. Your photos can win you great prizes while supporting local nature conservation initiatives. The Wings over the Rockies Photo Contest is part of the Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival, taking place May 4-10, 2026 in the Columbia Valley, British Columbia. This year’s festival theme, “Adventures in Nature,” highlights the stories that unfold when we step outside. From trail moments and backcountry journeys, to wildlife encounters, changing seasons, and the small discoveries that deepen our connection to wild places, celebrate the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
Wings Over the Rockies 2026 Photo Contest
Entry Deadline: April 20, 2026.
Entry Fee: $20 per five (5) image entries (unlimited entries)
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Ross MacDonald Memorial Legacy Fund.
Eligibility: Open to all photographers of all skill levels, regardless of age or location.
Categories:
- Wildlife: Capture the dynamic world of animals and birds as they interact with their environment. From intimate portraits to intriguing behaviours, this category celebrates the raw beauty and stories of wildlife.
- Landscapes & Flora: Highlight the stunning diversity of land and water habitats that make up our ecosystems. Whether it’s a serene lake, towering mountains, or a vibrant wildflower field, these images should showcase the breathtaking geography of nature.
- Adventure in Nature: This year’s festival theme invites us into the stories that unfold when we step outside. From quiet trail moments to bold backcountry journeys, this category celebrates exploration, curiosity, and connection to wild places. Whether your image captures solitude, shared experiences, or the awe of the unknown, this category encourages narrative-driven storytelling through photography.
- Mobile Moments: No fancy camera? No Problem! From spontaneous encounters to quiet details on a walk, this category celebrates accessibility, immediacy, and seeing the natural world with fresh eyes. Whether your image is taken with a phone on the trail, at the lake, or from your backyard, this category invites everyone to participate and encourages authentic storytelling through phone photography.
- Youth (16 & Under): A special category for young photographers! Images can fit into any of the above categories while incorporating this year’s theme, “Adventures in Nature.” Let your creativity shine and share your unique view of the natural world.
Prizes and Recognition:
- One Grand Prize winner will be awarded in each category by jury selection process.
- Prizes for each category are estimated at $200 - $500 in value and have been graciously provided by our sponsors.
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Category winners will also have their images professionally printed and displayed at the Festival Gala on May 9th 2026.
