Research Animal Photography Award

 

Show what animal research really looks like

We are inviting photographers, researchers and animal care staff across Australia, New Zealand and Oceania's Islands to submit images that capture the reality of animals in research.

This award recognises photography that is both technically strong and meaningful in what it communicates. We are looking for images that reflect real research environments, both captive and in the field, the care and consideration given to research animals, and the science taking place.

Total prize fund: $4,000 AUD
Top prize: $2,000 AUD

[Submit your entry]
[Read conditions of entry]

This competition is an opportunity to support openness, build trust, and share amazing stories about research with animals using pictures that communicate more than words. 

About the award

The images of research animals don't always show the passion, wonder or commitment that reflect the projects they are part of.  Increasingly, science stories are illustrated with staged or AI-generated images. Stories told through authentic images are necessary to communicate that excellent science and care is taking place, and help everyone understand the importance of the work. 

We are looking for the passionate, purposeful and visually creative minds working with animals in science, to share their research stories through a photograph that shows their passion for the animals and the importance of the research. 

The Research Animal Photography Awards is both a photography and a science communication competition. It is a chance to share your research, and best images with the world, so they can share in your experiences. 

The strongest entries will combine good photography with a clear sense of what is happening and why it matters. They will communicate the complexities of science visually, and help someone outside your field see both scientific purpose and compassion for animals more clearly.

If you have an image that shows this well, we encourage you to submit an entry.

 

What we are looking for

Entries will be judged on two equally important areas:

Photographic quality
Composition, technical execution, use of light and overall finish

Scientific communication
Clarity of context, authenticity, and the ability to help a wider audience understand the work

Strong entries will:

• Show real research settings and practice
• Communicate something meaningful about the science
• Be suitable for use in public-facing communication

Who should enter

We welcome entries from:

• Researchers working with animals
• Animal care and research services staff
• Professional and amateur photographers working in scientific settings
• Students and early career researchers

Entrants must be affiliated with a research organisation responsible for the work shown. They are required to share ethical approval information for their project as part of the entry process. 

Categories

• Wildlife
• Small lab animals
• Large animals
• Aquatic animals
• Open category

Key information

• Entries must be original photographs taken on or after 1 January 2025
• Each entry must include a short explanation (up to 500 words) describing the scientific context
• Images must not be generated or altered using AI
• All work must comply with relevant ethical approvals and institutional requirements

Ready to enter? 

Please check our full Terms and Conditions of entry first to make sure your submission is eligible. 

Entries are submitted online and the process should take no more than a few minutes to complete.