Maryland DNR Photo Contest Now Open

​​The grand prize winner of the 2023 Maryland Department of Natural Resources annual photo contest was Dallin Johnson of Huntingtown for his photo of a gray tree frog. (Photo courtesy of Maryland DNR)

The 2025 Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo contest is now open. Each year, DNR invites photographers to test their skills by capturing the most beautiful photographs of the state’s flora and fauna as they can.

This year there is an additional opportunity for photographers to be noticed. Not only do you have the chance to be featured on the 2026 DNR calendar, but the department is also looking for photos for its new DNR hard cards which can be purchased in addition to hunting and fishing licenses.

So, while you’re looking out for that amazing bird or flower, keep your eyes open for action on the fishing and hunting fronts. There is no specific prize for a hard card winner, but you’ll get some great exposure.

Find the contest rules here.

The contest ends August 1, 2025. Submissions have to be in by noon.