ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting photographers and nature enthusiasts to submit their best images of the state’s flora and fauna for the 2025 Photo Contest, with entries accepted online through the DNR website. The contest, announced on May 3, 2025, will feature winning photos in the upcoming Maryland DNR nature calendar, set for publication in late fall.
The contest is judged across four seasonal categories: winter, spring, summer, and fall. Judges will select first, second, and third place winners for each season, with a grand prize winner chosen from the seasonal first-place entries. The grand prize winner will receive $700, while each seasonal first-place winner will be awarded $100 and a one-year Maryland State Park and Trail Passport. All winners will receive free copies of the calendar.
This year, the DNR is also seeking photos to feature on new hunting and fishing license hard cards. Additionally, a “Fan Favorite” winner will be determined by public vote on Facebook, based on the photo with the most “likes.” The Fan Favorite will be included in the calendar and receive free calendars and a State Park Passport.
Participants must submit their photos online at the DNR website, with an entry fee of $10 for up to three photos and $3 for each additional entry [dnr.maryland.gov]. Winners will be announced in early fall, providing ample time for photographers to capture Maryland’s diverse landscapes and wildlife across the seasons.
The annual contest celebrates the state’s natural beauty, from its Chesapeake Bay ecosystems to its Appalachian forests, encouraging both amateur and professional photographers to showcase Maryland’s biodiversity. Past calendars have featured images of native species like bald eagles, black-eyed Susans, and blue crabs, as well as scenic vistas from state parks such as Assateague and Swallow Falls.
The inclusion of photos on hunting and fishing license hard cards adds a new dimension to the contest, highlighting the DNR’s commitment to promoting outdoor recreation. The Fan Favorite category, determined by social media engagement, aims to involve the broader community in celebrating Maryland’s natural heritage.
Entrants are encouraged to submit high-quality images that capture the essence of Maryland’s flora and fauna, adhering to contest guidelines available online. The DNR emphasizes ethical photography practices, urging participants to respect wildlife and natural habitats while capturing their images.
The Maryland DNR, responsible for managing the state’s natural resources and 66 state parks, uses the photo contest to raise awareness about conservation and outdoor recreation. The 2025 calendar will serve as both a showcase of photographic talent and a tool to promote Maryland’s environmental stewardship. Photographers of all skill levels are invited to participate, with the opportunity to have their work recognized statewide.
