Wildlife photographers and videographers are invited to submit their funniest nature moments as entries officially open for the 2026 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards. The much-loved global competition is once again searching for hilarious and heart-warming wildlife images and videos that capture the lighter side of the natural world.
Following the success of last year’s competition, organisers have announced the return of title partner Nikon, one of the world’s leading camera brands. Together, they will celebrate extraordinary wildlife photography while highlighting the remarkable animals that share the planet with us.
To launch the 2026 competition, organisers have also released a collection of never-before-seen entries from the 2025 awards, giving audiences a preview of the humour and charm that define the contest. These images aim to spark laughter and encourage photographers of all levels to get involved.
Prizes and awards
The overall winner will receive a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in the Maasai Mara, hosted by Alex Walker’s Serian, along with a handmade trophy crafted by The Wonder Workshop.
Additional prizes include cameras and lenses from Nikon, camera bags from Think Tank Photo, and a professionally designed website from Amazing Internet.
scott Kalter
Lyme
United States
Title: Core Strength
Description: So, how long can you hold that pose? I always love to catch birds taking off from a perch. That first powerful wing beat and then “take off”! This little Burrowing Owl had a different approach in mind, and it seemed to work just fine!
Animal: Burrowing Owl
Location of shot: Cooper City, Florida
A star-studded judging panel
The 2026 competition welcomes several new judges, including wildlife photographers Jamie Smart and Will Fortescue, climate comedian Stuart Goldsmith, and storyteller and presenter Roma Wells.
They will join an established panel of judges that includes Nikon Creators Cameron Whitnall, Hannah Stitfall, and Roxy Hemadani, alongside Charlotte Kemsley, broadcaster Kate Humble, actor and comedian Hugh Dennis, wildlife photographers Daisy Gilardini and Will Burrard-Lucas, conservation advocate Will Travers, and environmentalist Bella Lack.
Entry details
The competition is free to enter and open to photographers using any camera brand. Submissions will be accepted until 30 June 2026.
A shortlist will be announced in October, with the winners revealed during an awards ceremony in December.
Supporting wildlife conservation
The awards proudly support Born Free Foundation, an international wildlife charity dedicated to compassionate conservation. Founded by Bill Travers, Virginia McKenna, and Will Travers, the organisation has spent more than four decades protecting wild animals, preserving natural habitats, and promoting respect for wildlife around the world.
2026 competition categories
Entries for the 2026 competition can be submitted in the following categories:
• Mammals
• Birds
• Reptiles, Amphibians and Insects
• Fish and Other Aquatic Species
• Nikon Young Photographer (25 years and under)
• Nikon Junior Category (16 years and under)
• Portfolio Category
• Nikon Video Category
• People’s Choice Award
For more information about the competition or how to enter, visit the official competition website.
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