2026 Adventures in Nature Student Photo Contest
Photograph by Max Tuttle
The Nature Conservancy in Arizona, in partnership with Arizona Highways Magazine, presents the 13th annual “Adventures in Nature” student photo contest! Students aged 13-18 are invited to enter up to two photos that capture Arizona’s beauty and wildlife for a chance to win cash prizes. The contest is open for submissions between March 1st and March 31st, 2026, and the top 10 winners will be announced on a virtual awards ceremony on April 16th, 2026. All contestants will receive a Zoom invitation by email. See last year’s winners here.
Prizes:
1st place — $5,000
2nd place — $2,500
3rd place — $1,000
7 honorable mentions — $250 each
Please view the updated OFFICIAL RULES before submitting entries.
GALLERY
Displaying 61 - 72 of 439
Photo by Izabella Rodriguez
This photo shows the reflection of tree branches from a phone screen.
Location: Flowing Wells High School
Photo by Julie Lashley
This photo shows a Quail posted on a wall, turned towards a clear blue sky, but looking back at what he's leaving behind. It represents the uncertainty and endless opportunities of new adventures, from the point at which you must let go and leave the past behind, taking one last glimpse to take with you into your new horizon.
Location: Buckeye, AZ
Photo by Luka Perez
Picture of a chocolate daisy with an ant possibly looking for food.
Location: Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Photo by Jessayra Corella
Location: Flowing Wells High School
Photo by Jessayra Corella
Location: Flowing Wells High School
Photo by Luka Perez
Picture of a chocolate daisy with an ant possibly looking for food.
Location: Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Photo by Julie Lashley
This picture showcases three quail (assuming) eggs resting in the shade of surrounding desert plants, representing the start of spring time and new life in Arizona.
Location: Buckeye, AZ
Photo by Evelyn Smith
a close up shot of the eye of a rooster found on the grounds of CVHS
Location: Campo Verde High School
Photo by Salim Monroe
Location: Campo Verde High School
Photo by Ofelia Slatara Sudano
Looking through the chipped body of a saguaro cactus to see the stormy, grey sky.
Location: Starr Pass
Photo by Aziz Sethi
A bee pollinating a flower
Location: The Gregory School
Photo by Aziz Sethi
Photo of a beautiful flower in the wind outside my house.
Location: Pima County