ROYAL ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2026 INSECT PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Royal Entomological Society
📌 About the Event
Organized by the Royal Entomological Society (RES) a prestigious United Kingdom-based institution dedicated to the scientific study of insects this global competition celebrates macro-photography and biodiversity. The contest invites photographers to capture the complex, hidden details of insect life in their natural habitats.
📍 CONTEST OVERVIEW
- Organizer: Royal Entomological Society (RES), United Kingdom.
- The Theme: Insects in their natural habitat.
- Acceptable Subjects: Any insect or group of insects in a completely natural, un-staged setting. The subject can represent any developmental life-stage (egg, nymph, larva, pupa, or fully formed adult) from any region across the globe.
- Entry Fee: 100% Free to enter.
- Submission Limit: Each participant can submit up to three photographs.
👥 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
- Amateur Focus: The competition is strictly open to amateur photographers only. Professional macro or wildlife photographers are not eligible to participate.
- Global Scope: Open to all ages and nationalities.
🏆 PRIZES & AGE CATEGORIES
Cash prizes are split across two age divisions to guarantee fair evaluation by the judging panel:
Ages 18 and Over Category
- 🥇 1st Prize: £750
- 🥈 2nd Prize: £500
Under 18 Category
- 🥇 1st Prize: £450
- 🥈 2nd Prize: £250
📅 CRITICAL TIMELINE
- Feb 18, 2026: Global Portal Opened
- TODAY – May 18, 2026: Prime Spring/Summer Field Shooting Season
- October 31, 2026: FINAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE
- Late 2026 / Early 2027: Expert Jury Panel Reviews & Winners Announcement