The Landscape Awards 2026: 5 less obvious tips for a strong entry

By Mike O'Connor | 10 December 2025

With entries now open for The Landscape Awards 2026 presented by Western Digital, we thought we'd share a few tips to help you capture images that stand out in the annual competition, which for next year has a prize pool valued at a whopping $22,000.

Winner, Landscape category, Ben Chubb, Forgotten Flame. — Winner of the Landscape category, Landscape Awards 2024, Ben Chubb, Forgotten Flame.

1) Work the edges of the frame

In the past, we've seen entries drop out of the running because they have been cropped badly or straightened lazily. Judges notice when photographers pay attention to every corner. Clean edges show control and intention and often separate a good shot from a great one. Take the time to get it right.

Runner-up, Landscape category, Julien Parrot, Bird's Tree. — 2024 Runner-up in the Landscape category, Julien Parrot, Bird's Tree, has lots of elements that add to the scene - the birds, the tree, the soft, hazy weather and the considered framing all contribute to make a winning shot.

2) Tell a story with subtle clues

A landscape that hints at season, weather shift, human presence or natural change can feel more layered and memorable than just a pretty scene. Add small details that reward a longer look, and look at what other elements you can bring into your image to add interest.

Sam Markham, Amos Australis — Combining a well photographed scene with a unique weather event helped Sam Markham win the People's choice Award in 2024, for his image Amos Australis.

3) Embrace imperfect conditions

Ok, it's not strictly speaking a less obvious tip, but things like misty rain, clearing storms or flat midday haze can create unusual mood and colour that can bring a different element to your image. In fact, many winning images from the competition in the past have come from conditions most people pack up and avoid.

Some judges are fixated on “The Rules” of photography, so much so that they often dismiss images that don’t meet their criterium. But there are no rules in photography, and often the best images are created by people who realise this fact. This seascape by Theresa Lee breaks numerous rules; its soft and grainy and the main subject is in the middle of the frame, and yet as we study it most people will probably have an emotional connection with this image. — This seascape by Theresa Lee, which was runner-up in 2024, breaks numerous rules; its soft and grainy and the main subject is in the middle of the frame, and yet as we study it most people will probably have an emotional connection with this image. Sometimes you need to look beyond technical perfection to make your work unique.

4) Look for tension or contrast

Pair elements that naturally push against each other, like calm water and jagged rocks, warm light and cool shadows, or vast scale and tiny details.

A serene outback lake reflecting a stormy sky creates a visual conflict that draws the eye and adds drama. Similarly, juxtaposing a lone gum tree against a wide, barren plain can evoke a sense of isolation and scale. This tension adds interest.

2024 Landscape category runner-up, Joy Kachina, Our impact. — Embracing wild weather is a great way to add drama to your imagery. 2024 Landscape category runner-up, Joy Kachina, and her image Our impact, did this to perfection.

5) Curate a theme even if you enter one image

Judges see patterns in how you present your work. Title, colour palette, processing choices and subject matter should feel consistent and intentional even for a single entry.

The Landscape Awards 2026 presented by Western Digital are now open for entries. More info here.