Frequently asked questions

We've compiled a list of common questions and answers you may find useful. If you have a question that isn't here, email us at: ypa@rspca.org.uk.

Who can enter the competition?

You can enter if you're 18 or younger and are a UK resident.

I try to login but a message says that my account isn't activated

If you're 15 or younger when you register you'll need to provide your parent/guardian's email address. We're required by law to get your parent/guardian's permission for you to enter. An email will then be sent to their email containing an activation link.

My parent/guardian didn't receive the activation email

Check that you have given the correct email address and ask your parent/guardian to check their junk mail folder. If you still can't find it ask them to email us at ypa@rspca.org.uk with your username and we'll activate the account.

Is there an entry fee?

No, entry to the competition is free. If you're lucky enough to be invited to the awards ceremony unfortunately we can't pay the costs of your trip.

Can I alter images using photographic software?

We only want to see pictures that show real animals in real situations so don't add or take anything away from the picture as it was originally taken. You may use contrast and colour settings to make your pictures look really good, and you can remove dust spots that have appeared by accident. You can also change an image from colour to black-and-white but don't add artificial colours or change them too much. If the judges deem that an image has been manipulated then the entrant and all of their entries will be disqualified. The key is to keep it real!

How many photos can I enter?

You can enter up to five photos in your age category plus another five in the Pet Personalities, Pet Portraits and Mobile Phone and Devices categories. You can also enter up to three sets of five images in the Portfolio category.

What size and format should I submit my images?

Ensure your images are no larger than 10MB and don't crop the final picture too much. They should be no smaller than 600x600. If your photo is larger than 10MB, reduce the file size but keep the original RAW file(s).

All entrants must be able to supply a high-resolution image suitable for printing in exhibitions and marketing materials should the image be required.

I am unable to upload my images, what should I do?

Please ensure that your images are 10MB size or below, sized no smaller than 600x600 and are in a JPEG format. It may be that your images are too large for the local internet connection and we suggest that you resize all the pictures and try again, but keep the original RAW file(s). If you continue to have problems, please do not hesitate to contact us.

When is the closing date?

The closing date for online entries is 15 August 2023 at 12pm. Any entries received after this date will not be entered.

When will the winners be announced?

The winners will be announced in December 2023 at an awards ceremony. All shortlisted finalists will be notified by 20 October 2023.

Which age category should I enter?

You should enter the category according to your age on the closing date of the competition. So, if you're 11 now but are 12 on or before the closing date, you should enter the 12-15 category.

I've forgotten my password

Use the password reminder in the login area of the home page to send your password to the email address you registered with. If you still have problems, email us at ypa@rspca.org.uk.

What will happen to the photos that don't win?

Any digital pictures that aren't shortlisted will be deleted after the awards ceremony.

Is there anything that I should not photograph?

We want you to photograph animals showing natural behaviour in their natural habitat. Please don't dress your pets up or make them perform tricks for the camera. Check out our photo tips for more information.

Are photos of animals in zoos acceptable?

View the guidance on taking photos in zoos.

I haven't received an email confirmation; has my entry been accepted?

We don't send out confirmation emails for each upload. You can check if your entry has been successful by logging into your account: all photos submitted will show here.

Can I enter the same photo in more than one category?

No, you can't enter any picture or similar into more than one category. The judges may move any individual photo entered into another category if they think it's likely to be shortlisted.

How will the winning photos be showcased?

As well as being exhibited at an awards ceremony, the winning photos will be displayed in a gallery on the website. They may be used by us to promote the competition in the future. For any other use (including on licensed products), we'll ask your permission. If you agree, payment will be under a separate agreement.