Category Descriptions

Category Descriptions:

These changes mostly mechanical text revisions with a few clarifications. There are currently several links to slightly different versions. By adding the (2026) after each category it will assure members are reading the most current versions:

Creative Editing Category (2026)

The Creative Category places primary emphasis on post-production editing. Images must demonstrate significant digital manipulation that transforms the original capture into a new conceptual or artistic expression. Examples include composites, abstractions, layering, blending, and other substantial forms of creative digital work.

Images that rely only on abstract subjects, intentional camera movement, in-camera effects, or software-generated global art filters or brushes do not qualify unless additional post-production editing clearly modifies or reinterprets the original image.

All image elements must be photographed, created, or generated by the member, except for approved third-party textures. AI-assisted enhancement is permitted; AI-generated subject matter is not.

Traditional Nature Category (2026)

The Nature category is intended to depict authentic observations from all branches of natural history (excluding anthropology and archaeology).

  • Storytelling value is prioritized over pictorial style, but images must still demonstrate high technical quality.
  • Images must present subjects in a way that allows a well-informed viewer to identify them and confirm the photograph’s authenticity.
  • All adjustments must appear natural and may include desaturation, monochrome, or infrared conversion.
  • Human (“Hand of Man”) elements (other than scientific bands, tags, or radio collars) are not permitted.
  • Images of mounted or preserved specimens, artificially produced hybrids, captive or arranged subjects, or any staged or manufactured scenes are not eligible.
  • No techniques may add, move, replace, or remove elements in the image, except by cropping. Compositing is not permitted.
  • Editing techniques that enhance the presentation without altering the nature story or factual content are allowed.

Expanded Nature Category (2026)

Expanded Nature allows additional flexibility to explore the intersection of nature and human environments. Expanded Nature submissions, when scheduled, are allowed but not required. Submissions may include:

  • Natural subjects that have adapted to human-modified environments, where human elements may be essential to the story.
  • Humans or human-created elements as secondary subjects that provide scale, context, or interaction with the primary natural subject.
  • Studio-created images, including those using artificial black, white, or toned backgrounds.

All Expanded Nature images are scored together with Traditional Nature submissions. Both are eligible for end-of-the-year recognition in the Nature Category

Open Category (2026)

Includes any subject and any technique. No restrictions, other than the AI and texture guidelines noted above

People Category (2026)

Includes any depiction of human beings. Portraits, documentary, photojournalism, candid moments, and expressive studies (e.g., hands, eyes, face) are all included. No restrictions, other than the AI and texture guidelines noted above