Under 12 Years

The brief

Are you mad about photography (or just animal-mad) and want to share your best photos? If you're aged 11 or under when the competition closes, then this is the category for you.

We're looking for fab photos of the animals around you - beautiful or funny images that tell a story about an animal and show their characteristics. Most of all, it's about celebrating animals and showing what you like about them and why you think they're interesting.

The top prize for the competition has been won by photographers who are under 12, so even if you've never taken a photo before, why not give it a go and get snapping?

Getting started

It doesn't matter whether it's in your garden, local park or on holiday abroad - there are animals all around you. When you're thinking about what you'd like to photograph, consider these ideas:

  • Location - is there a certain location you really like? This could be anywhere you go to see wildlife, pets or farm animals.
  • Animal - do you love a particular wild animal or have a favourite pet that you'd really like to photograph? Maybe you like watching birds in flight, or do spiders and insects fascinate you?
  • Theme - is there an idea or theme you'd like to focus on? For example animals in or near water.
  • Mood - you can create a variety of moods or atmospheres, depending on how you take the photo. Try taking photos at different times of the day and in different weather conditions.
Toad under the water - YPA 2005 Under 12 runner up Alex Worthington

There's lots more advice from Chris Packham and wildlife photographer Andrew Forsyth in our photo tips section.

Check out our galleries for inspiration and to see all the finalists' photos from previous years.

When you're out and about trying to get the perfect shot, don't ever put your safety at risk.

Entering the competition

So, if you're aged 11 or under (there's no lower age limit!) you can enter up to five photos in this category. Don't forget to tell us a bit about the photo - where you took it, why you like the animal and why you think your photo stands out - in 80 words or fewer.

Please note, you cannot submit mobile phone photos into this category, they will be disqualified. If you have captured a great shot on your phone enter it into our Mobile Phone and Devices category instead.

Read the full rules and terms and conditions before you enter and check out the prizes.