Nature Photo Contest

Each year, photographers in the area are invited to focus their lenses on nature, showcasing the awe-inspiring and diverse natural world around us. Be inspired by the great outdoors, and submit the photos you capture.

2026 Contest

The Chandler Nature Photo Contest will begin on January 20, 2026, and close on March 7 at 11:59 p.m.

This year's contest focuses on "the natural world" of Arizona. Photographers may submit one (1) photograph to the contest. The photo must be submitted to one of the categories below:

1. Water in the Desert: Capture the rare and beautiful presence of water in the desert—whether through creeks, rivers, puddles, or dramatic rainstorms.
2. Desert After Dark: Show the magic of the desert after dark. Moonlit landscapes, star-filled skies, and the secret lives of nocturnal creatures. Photos of animals in captivity, such as pets, zoos, or rehab animals, are not accepted.
3. Desert in Bloom: Celebrate the vibrant beauty of the desert in bloom, from colorful spring wildflowers to striking cactus blossoms.
4. Cacti Close-up: Highlight the intricate textures and forms of desert life with detailed macro shots of cacti, showcasing spines, patterns, and blooms up close.
5. Sonoran Skies: Capture the drama and beauty of Sonoran skies—from towering monsoon clouds to breathtaking desert sunrises and sunsets.

Nature Photo Contest Timeline and Guidelines

• Photograph Submission Period: January 20, 2026, to March 7, 2026
• In-Person Voting at Chandler Nature Center: March 16, 2026, to May 9, 2026 (voting available only at the Chandler Nature Center, free admission). Each visitor is allowed to vote once.
• Nature Photo Contest Winners Announced: May 11, 2026
• Photography Pick-up: May 18 to May 22, 2026
• Entry into the photo contest is free. Photographers may choose one category for their photo.
• Please contact the Chandler Nature Center with any questions at 480-782-2890.