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What Is Nature Photography Day?

June 15

Each year, June 15 is designated by the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) to promote the enjoyment of nature photography, and to explain how images are used to advance the cause of conservation and protect plants, wildlife, and landscapes both locally and globally.

Photo by Mark Larson

In 2006, NANPA celebrated the first Nature Photography Day and placed it in McGraw-Hill’s (now Rowman & Littlefield) reference work, Chase’s Calendar of Events. Many media and websites took notice. Since then, people throughout the North American continent, and overseas too, have discovered numerous ways to observe and enjoy the day. Enthusiasm for Nature Photography Day continues to grow—worldwide.
NANPA encourages people everywhere to enjoy the day by using a camera to explore the natural world. A backyard, park, or other place close by can be just right. Details for ways to celebrate are available by clicking on the links below.

Help Promote Nature Photography Day

Nature Photography Day is promoted through local and national media, businesses, photography clubs, and word of mouth by sharing these audio and PDF materials.

Public Service Announcements (PSAs)

As in previous years, public service announcements (PSAs) have been recorded for download and release to radio stations and websites.

Signage

We also encourage business owners, camera stores, and other organizations to post a flyer announcing Nature Photography Day. Here’s one you can download (just click on the image) and use now!

Ad for Nature Photography Day 2023

Bioblitz

Nature Photography Day Bioblitz with iNaturalist.

Join the fun and contribute to science by participating in the Nature Photography Day Bioblitz. Document the species you see, wherever you are, and earn a shot at some VISA gift cards. Plus, your photos will contribute to the science! Learn all about the Bioblitz and check out the contest rules.

Stay connected to the natural world

Here are some ways to celebrate Nature Photography Day.

  • Participate in the Nature Photography Day Bioblitz (see above).
  • Learn even more about the natural history of your environment: plants, wildlife, and land.
  • Encourage the creative spirit among your family and friends. Tell them about books and online resources with suggestions on how to photograph flowers, birds, and more.
  • Know that your photos can be invaluable, telling vital stories about nature. Find something that detracts from the natural world, showing images about how human beings sometimes adversely affect the environment.
  • Remind your colleagues about Nature Photography Day and how images have been used to protect the natural world. If you have a website or blog, spread the news there, too.
  • Even before June 15, immerse yourself in the legacy of nature photography by reading about the work of naturalists as well as pioneers in the profession.
  • Take learning even further: Whether you teach online or in person, ask your students to also read about the experiences of nature photographers—legends of the past and today.
  • Build vibrant memories by picking something close to home that you’ve never photographed before. Then make plans to photograph that subject or scene every June 15. Enjoy the pilgrimage!
  • Create a scavenger hunt for birds, butterflies, insects, rocks, and other natural sights likely to be close to you. But don’t just list what you’ve found. Take photos!
  • Finally, ask yourself how your images can help to bring positive changes to the Earth. After all, it’s our common home.

How will you celebrate Nature Photography Day? Contact us or tag us in your social media posts #NaturePhotographyDay

We love nature photography

NANPA members share a passion for nature photography and a desire to shine light on what’s beautiful, threatened, and unique in the natural world. They believe in the power of storytelling to effect change.

Whether you’re a professional nature photographer, hobbyist, vendor, publisher, conservationist, or other nature photography enthusiast, you belong at NANPA.