The NCES Photo Contest is open to members and non-members as a way to encourage insect photography, engage the public in a fun activity, and increase awareness about our organization. 

Requirements

Each applicant may submit a limit of 5 photos total. Captions for photos are not required, however, you must select the category of each photo entered.

No AI generated photos, filters, or heavily photoshopped images are allowed. Basic edits such as cropping, adjustments for exposure, sunlight, etc. are permitted. The photo should appear as natural and true to life as possible.

The Judging Process

Round 1: All submissions will be reviewed by the NCES Photo Contest Judges to screen for appropriate content and to select a total of 5 photos for each category.

Round 2: The 5 photos from each category will be publicly displayed during the Annual Meeting Banquet and voted upon live during the event by banquet attendees. Winners will be determined and announced near the end of the banquet.

Recognition & Compensation
All winners will receive a certificate at the banquet or via email. The winner of Best In Show will be awarded a complimentary one-year NCES membership.

Any photos submitted to the contest may be used by the society (e.g., NCES website, social media) with appropriate credit given to the photographer. In addition, the winner of Best in Show will have their image featured on the ​NCES website​ and the 2025 annual meeting registration form with proper credit to the photographer.

If you have any questions or concerns about the NCES Photo Contest, please contact us before submitting your entries.