Competition 2026
Awards
Recognising excellence
We celebrate the vision, dedication and creativity of photographers who capture the spirit of the polar regions. Outstanding images are honoured with a crystal trophy, medals, ribbons and global recognition.
The Main Award
Polar Photographer of the Year
One overall title recognising the photographer of the competition across all seven sections: the highest honour of Polar Photographer of the Year. The winner receives a hand-cut crystal trophy on a black stone base, engraved with their name.
- Hand-cut crystal trophy
- Global recognition and promotion
- Featured in the annual exhibition and winners' book
- Interview and international media coverage
Main Medals
Gold, Silver and Bronze Polar medals are awarded in each of the seven sections.
Gold Polar
First place in each section
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Silver Polar
Second place in each section
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Bronze Polar
Third place in each section
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Jury Choice Medal
Every section has a Jury Choice medal. In Northern Lights & Night Sky, Polar Bears and Penguins of Antarctica it carries a dedicated name.
Jury Choice Award
The jury's own choice in Landscapes, Wildlife, Birds and People.
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Northern Lights Award
The Jury Choice medal of Northern Lights & Night Sky.
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Polar Bear Award
The Jury Choice medal of the Polar Bears section.
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Penguin Award
The Jury Choice medal of Penguins of Antarctica.
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Additional Awards in Every Section
Five Honourable Mention certificates and five ribbons.
Ribbons
Five ribbons in every section, for images the jury wants to honour.
Honourable Mention
Five signed certificates in every section for outstanding images.
Prizes at a glance
| Award | Who |
|---|---|
| Polar Photographer of the Year | One overall title, across all seven sections |
| Gold Polar | First in each section |
| Silver Polar | Second in each section |
| Bronze Polar | Third in each section |
| Jury Choice medal | One in each section: Northern Lights Award, Polar Bear Award and Penguin Award in their sections |
| Ribbons | Five in each section |
| Honourable Mention | Five certificates in each section |
Enter now and share your vision
Excellence deserves recognition.
Enter nowEntries open 1 November 2026