Nature photography hosts many competitions that focus on specific corners of the globe—birds, plants, landscapes, you name it. Yet one event stands out for its originality and growing popularity: a worldwide contest dedicated to funny wildlife photos. Its aim is simple and appealing: to spotlight animals in the wild showing amusing attitudes or postures, as seen through the lens of everyday observers as well as seasoned photographers.
The competition began in 2015, launched by British nature photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam. The format includes distinct categories, with one prize awarded by a public vote and another by expert juries drawn from the global nature photography community.
Aspiring entrants can participate by submitting their favorite shots to the public vote for finalist images. Only a subset of these finalists is showcased, and voting proceeds follow straightforward instructions described on the official pages. The full slate of finalists for the current edition can be viewed on the competition site through the appropriate page in the voting process. The event also features several categories where a panel of prominent nature photographers from around the world acts as judges, selecting standout work across different genres and styles.
You have until November 12 to cast a vote. Winners are announced on November 23, and given the high caliber of the finalists, choosing a winner is a tough call that keeps audiences engaged until the last moment.
Across the lineup, finalists include 41 individual photographs, three portfolios, and three video entries. These were chosen from thousands of submissions from photographers worldwide, encompassing both professionals and hobbyists who bring diverse perspectives to wildlife moments that feel unexpectedly humorous or compelling in their own right.
— His leg is loose — Christian Hargasser
— Fox with a cigar — Dakota Vaccaro
— Part of your world — Danielle Goonan
— Happy Turtle — Tzahi Finkelstein
— Fake news — Matti Rauvala
— Air guitar roo — Jason Moore
— Boring Monday — John Blumenkamp
— Fight — Jacek Stankiewicz
Wildlife moments often carry laughter in their own way, and this contest showcases animals that appear to laugh at the camera or strike humorously deliberate poses. The Comedy Wildlife competition also dedicates ten percent of its net revenue to conservation organizations, channeling support to paths that safeguard natural habitats and wildlife populations for the long term.
Voting information is published through official channels, and the event’s community continues to celebrate the creative convergence of humor and wildlife while highlighting important conservation messages. The competition demonstrates how humor can attract broader audiences to wildlife photography and environmental stewardship, encouraging people to engage, share, and learn about the natural world through a lighthearted lens. This approach has helped expand the reach of wildlife storytelling beyond traditional nature photography circles, inviting new participants to join the conversation and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about protecting wild spaces for future generations.
Notes and updates about the competition are shared via the official communications from the organizing body and credited outlets, with the audience invited to participate in discussions and showcases that accompany each edition. The event remains a vibrant example of how humor, art, and science can intersect to raise awareness and inspire action in support of wildlife conservation.
Wildlife Photography Awards, official materials and coverage, provide context for the rules, categories, and outcomes of each edition.