National Geographic’s Photo Contest For Kids

In the last century, National Geographic has showcased the talents of some of the world’s best photographers. Now, they are offering kids a chance to show off their skills with their 6th Annual International Photography Contest for Kids. This photo competition is done in cooperation with the US version of National Geographic Kids, and ten other editions in a variety of languages available in different countries around the world.

Every country will pick a first prize winner and runner-up winner in four categories. The categories are: people, scenery, animals, and humor. All the 1st place winners will compete against each other for the ultimate prize-a five day trip to Washington D.C. and an exclusive tour of the National Geographic Headquarters.

Children who are 6-14 are eligible to participate. The timeline for US contestants extends through October 31, 2012. They may submit a photo in all four categories if they like. Photos can be black and white or color, and use a conventional or digital camera. You can submit your entries online at the National Geographic Kids website, or through the mail. You can locate all the official entry forms and rules at the website.

Melina Bellows, one of the judges of the International Photo Competition, speaks very highly of photos. She believes photos have the power to bypass barriers in communication, letting messages be delivered, whether they are in compassion, humor, or just something interesting. She hopes kids from countries everywhere in the world will learn what a great tool photography is.

Every international edition of National Geographic will submit their winning entries to headquarters, where they will be judged, and a final champion will be determined. The judges are Melina Bellows, Joel Sartore, and Jay Sumner, who all have extensive experience and photography backgrounds.

Judges of the photography contest will declare the winners in January of 2013. The winning entries will receive a special section in both the US and international versions of National Geographic Kids magazine. It is an exciting contest, and something that all young aspiring photographers should be looking forward to. Tell your kids about it, and help them get their cameras ready for that perfect shot!

Check out the photos of the runners up from last year’s competition.

Your child can enter by submitting their photo online at http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/contests/photo-contest-rules/.

Void where prohibited.

{all images courtesy of National Geographic}

Do your kids love taking pictures? Enter their best shots into @ngkids Photo Contest For Kids bit.ly/QtZEP8

— Diane Nassy(@philZENdia) August 28, 2012