Overview
The Global BIG CATS Photography Competition
A prestigious Photography Competition hosted by Aarts Maestro focusing on the 7 Big Cats.
Presented by International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
The BIG CATS Photography Competition is organized by Aarts Maestro, with IBCA as a knowledge partner. A global Jury Panel with experts from across the globe & attractive Cash Prizes are the key highlights of this Competition. Cash Prizes will be awarded by IBCA. Participation and Winners certificates will also bear the IBCA Logo.
🌟 International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a mega global alliance launched by India in April 2023 by Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.
State Tourism Partner: Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board
The Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board will give away one fantastic Big Cat Safari trip to Dudhwa National Park and Tiger Reserve. This Prize will include a return Air trip from Lucknow to Dudhwa and back and a 3 night 4 day stay at Dudhwa National Park and Tiger reserve and includes Safari Tours.
To qualify for this prize, do make sure to upload BIG CATS Pics from any of the 4 Tiger reserves of Uttar Pradesh - Amangarh, Dudhwa, Philibit & Ranipur.
What to Upload
Photo stories of incredible power & beauty, of conservation, resilience triumphs! Photo Stories that underscore the lore of Lions & Tigers, Cheetah’s, Leopards & Snow Leopards, Pumas and Panthers that once roamed the wilds as apex predators, but now have their habitats severely curtailed!
Join us on this thrilling storytelling adventure! Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that showcase aspects detailed in the “Themes” Section.
🏅 The Competition offers FANTASTIC PRIZES!
- Cash Prizes : 3 lacs+
- Photography Safari of Dudhwa National Park courtesy UP Eco Tourism Development Board
- Photography Tours
- Gift Vouchers
- Cool Merchandise
- IBCA endorsed Certificates for participants & Winners
- IBCA endorsed Global Photo Exhibition
For maximum impact and Jury scores, participants are advised to upload as diverse a portfolio of Big Cats as possible.
Don't Miss Out! Participate Now & Win Exciting Prizes!
Guidelines & Requirements
- General Rules
- This is a global online wildlife photography competition.
- All entries must be submitted online via the Aarts Maestro platform only.
- Entries must strictly adhere to the competition theme.
- Eligibility
Open to amateur and professional photographers aged 16 years and above as of the registration date.
- Registration Fee
The registration fee is non-refundable.
- Theme
The theme for this competition is "Big Cats". More details are available under the theme tab.
- Number of Entries
Each participant must submit 3 entries, adhering to the theme. Failure to submit the requisite number of entries will result in lower scores.
- Safari Prize Eligibility
To qualify for the Safari Prize, at least one image must be from a UP Tiger Reserve.
- Captions
All entries must be captioned. Entries with captions like "Not Applicable," "Untitled," or "Unknown" will be disqualified.
- Photo Editing Rules
- Basic editing (brightness, contrast, tone, and minor color corrections) is allowed.
- No major alterations such as object removal, addition, or reversal.
- Original EXIF files may be requested for verification.
- Manipulations
The photos should not be manipulated to alter the visual content. Using software to add or remove elements will lead to disqualification.
- File Format
- Accepted formats: JPEG / JPG only.
- Minimum resolution: 2000 pixels on the longest edge.
- File size: Between 2MB and 5MB (300 DPI).
- No watermarks, borders, or logos on images.
- Submission Deadline
All entries must be submitted before the deadline. Once submitted, no changes will be allowed.
- Plagiarism, Copyright & Ownership
Plagiarism is strictly prohibited and will lead to instant disqualification. Participants must have full copyright ownership of submitted images. Plagiarized or stolen content will be disqualified.
- Mobile / Drone Photography
Mobile & Drone photography is not allowed.
- No Logos or Watermarks
Submitted images must not contain signatures, logos, or watermarks. Such entries will be disqualified.
- Contact Details
All communication will be via Aarts Maestro Inbox, email, and WhatsApp. Ensure accurate contact details are provided during registration.
- Email Whitelist
Participants should mark hello@aartsmaestro.com & info@aartsmaestro.com as safe senders to avoid missing important updates.
- Appropriate Content
Entries depicting poaching, illegal wildlife trade, animals in captivity, or any content violating ethical or legal standards will be disqualified. Shots of Animals in Captivity - Zoo, Circus, Rehab centres etc are not allowed.
- Additional Verification
- Shortlisted participants must provide:
- RAW files in specified formats.
- Unaltered EXIF data.
- A personal interview (audio/video) with the jury panel.
- Jury Decision
The decision of the jury and judges is final and binding on all participants.
- Fraud Prevention
Shortlisted participants must provide government-approved identity proof. Failure to comply will result in cancellation of prizes.
- Prize Distribution
Winners must have an Indian bank account to receive cash prizes. Additional banking requirements may apply.
- Theme Adherence
Entries should demonstrate a strong understanding of Big Cats' behavior and species conservation.
Awards & Prizes
Gold Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 1,00,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
Silver Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 75,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
Bronze Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 50,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
- 4th - 8th Prizes (5 Special Mention Awards) : ₹ 10,000* each by IBCA Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- 9th - 10th Prizes : ₹ 3,000* each Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- 10th - 30th Prizes : ₹ 1,000* each Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- For all Participants : Participation Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition
- Public Choice Awards : 3 prizes (₹ 3,000, ₹ 2,000 & ₹ 1,000 each for top 3)
- A fantastic Photo Safari for one winner courtesy UP Eco Tourism Development Board @ Dudhwa National Park* This Prize will include a return Air trip from Lucknow to Dudhwa and back and a 3 night 4 day stay at Dudhwa National Park and Tiger reserve and includes Safari Tours
*Terms and Conditions for redemption of prizes :
Prizes are non-transferable & can only be redeemed in the name of the winners
The Prize is for a single person only
Where the prizes include photo-tours or holiday gift vouchers, all terms and conditions of the respective tour/holiday/stay the prize is redeemed for, will apply. These are non-negotiable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
All winners will need to furnish Govt photo ID proof upon request
All prize winners agree to provide testimonials and also create content around the competition, their experience and about sponsors. The Safari Prize winner will need to agree to T&C of the prizes to avail of the same
To be eligible for the Safari Prize, at least one of the 3 photos should be from any of the BIG CAT Reserves of UP - Amangarh, Dudhwa, Philibit or Ranipur
Theme
The "Big Cats Photography Competition" celebrates the allure and significance of big cats, highlighting their role as apex predators and symbols of wildness.
The BIG CATS Photography Competition is also about raising awareness about the critical conservation challenges they face, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
By showcasing compelling photographs, the competition seeks to inspire action to protect these endangered species and their ecosystems.
Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that showcase the following aspects:
Species Diversity: Capturing a variety of big cat species, including lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, snow Leopards and Jaguars in their natural habitats. As far as possible, participants are encouraged to showcase species diversity.
Behaviour and Interactions: Documenting intriguing behaviours such as hunting, grooming, playing, mating, and interacting with their young, their mates or their pride | family settings and other animals are highly encouraged.
Habitat and Environment: Showcasing big cats within their diverse habitats, ranging from savannas and forests to mountains and wetlands, emphasizing the importance of habitat conservation.
Portraits and Close-ups: Presenting intimate portraits and close-up shots that reveal the unique features, expressions, and personalities of these magnificent predators.
Conservation Storytelling: Using photography to tell compelling stories about the conservation challenges facing big cats and the efforts to protect their populations and habitats.
Note: No Photographs of animals in captivity – Zoo, monastery etc.
Jury Information
Dr. Mahendra Shrestha
Conservation Biologist & Vice President for Asia-Pacific, International Crane Foundation
View Profile →
The Photography Competition is juried by Global Jury Panel drawn from 3 continents and 4 countries, consisting of reputed photographers and teachers of the craft. This will enable photographers to get invaluable insights on how to improve and enhance their skills and abilities, whilst also gaining valuable exposure.
To preserve the sanctity of the competition & the jury process, the names of our expert jury panel will made public just a week before the competition results are announced.
The jury process and how it works
- Composition and Technical Quality: Excellence in composition, framing, focus, exposure, Colour, Lighting, Clarity and overall technical execution of the photograph.
- Creativity and Originality: Innovative perspectives, artistic vision, and unique approaches in capturing the BIG CATS and their specific or peculiar behaviors
- Emotional Impact: The ability of the photograph to evoke emotions, create connections, and convey the magnificence of the Apex Predators - the BIG CATS
- Environmental Context: How well the photograph showcases the BIG CATS within their natural habitats, adding depth and context to the image
- Overall Impression: The overall impression and aesthetic appeal of the photograph, including its storytelling and visual impact
- Diversified Portfolio: Special jury emphasis will be placed on a diversified portfolio, representative of a maximum number BIG CATS. This is not mandatory but there will be additional points if there is a wider representation, rather than just one specific animal
- Conservation Stories: Self Explanatory. Social Impact and Newsworthy stories are sought after
Jury Panel + Public Voting: The final result will be a combination of Jury Panel and public votes in a predefined ratio. It is in the interest of the participant to forward the entries, once published on Aarts Maestro Showcase, onto Social Media handles, personal and professional networks and generate maximum interest & votes for their work. Seeking votes for your talented artistry is a privilege!
All votes will be on the Aarts Maestro Platform only. Public Votes gathered on any other social media platform will not be considered for the competition
Sign up | Log-in for voting: All those who vote will need to sign-up to Aarts Maestro and only then will they be eligible to cast votes. This procedure is mandatory to ensure a free and fair voting process
Key Dates & Timeline
Registration Closes
7th May
Submission Closes
18th May
Public Voting Begins
1st March
Jury Evaluation Begins
To be Announced
Competition Results
To be Announced
Exhibition Ends
To be Announced
Terms & Conditions
Limited Grant of Rights: Aarts Maestro respects the creator's copyright to their work and the same shall remain vested with the creator of the image. By entering into the competition, you grant the platform Aarts Maestro, the organiser / sponsor of the competition, their licensees and designees, the worldwide, irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free right to use the entry in the platform / sponsor / organizers print, electronic and web communications, on digital assets, products or any merchandise, and in ads promoting future competitions, without further permission, compensation, or notification. You further agree that the said platform / organizer / sponsor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to use your name and /or photograph for the same purposes.
For any help, contact us: hello@aartsmaestro.com (+91 78293 91391 | +91 78293 92392)
See Award Ceremony Highlights
Trusted by leading Partners & Organizations
Supported by
Global Big Cats Photography Competition '25
CompletedOverview
The Global BIG CATS Photography Competition
A prestigious Photography Competition hosted by Aarts Maestro focusing on the 7 Big Cats.
Presented by International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
The BIG CATS Photography Competition is organized by Aarts Maestro, with IBCA as a knowledge partner. A global Jury Panel with experts from across the globe & attractive Cash Prizes are the key highlights of this Competition. Cash Prizes will be awarded by IBCA. Participation and Winners certificates will also bear the IBCA Logo.
🌟 International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a mega global alliance launched by India in April 2023 by Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.
State Tourism Partner: Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board
The Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board will give away one fantastic Big Cat Safari trip to Dudhwa National Park and Tiger Reserve. This Prize will include a return Air trip from Lucknow to Dudhwa and back and a 3 night 4 day stay at Dudhwa National Park and Tiger reserve and includes Safari Tours.
To qualify for this prize, do make sure to upload BIG CATS Pics from any of the 4 Tiger reserves of Uttar Pradesh - Amangarh, Dudhwa, Philibit & Ranipur.
What to Upload
Photo stories of incredible power & beauty, of conservation, resilience triumphs! Photo Stories that underscore the lore of Lions & Tigers, Cheetah’s, Leopards & Snow Leopards, Pumas and Panthers that once roamed the wilds as apex predators, but now have their habitats severely curtailed!
Join us on this thrilling storytelling adventure! Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that showcase aspects detailed in the “Themes” Section.
🏅 The Competition offers FANTASTIC PRIZES!
- Cash Prizes : 3 lacs+
- Photography Safari of Dudhwa National Park courtesy UP Eco Tourism Development Board
- Photography Tours
- Gift Vouchers
- Cool Merchandise
- IBCA endorsed Certificates for participants & Winners
- IBCA endorsed Global Photo Exhibition
For maximum impact and Jury scores, participants are advised to upload as diverse a portfolio of Big Cats as possible.
Don't Miss Out! Participate Now & Win Exciting Prizes!
Guidelines & Requirements
- General Rules
- This is a global online wildlife photography competition.
- All entries must be submitted online via the Aarts Maestro platform only.
- Entries must strictly adhere to the competition theme.
- Eligibility
Open to amateur and professional photographers aged 16 years and above as of the registration date.
- Registration Fee
The registration fee is non-refundable.
- Theme
The theme for this competition is "Big Cats". More details are available under the theme tab.
- Number of Entries
Each participant must submit 3 entries, adhering to the theme. Failure to submit the requisite number of entries will result in lower scores.
- Safari Prize Eligibility
To qualify for the Safari Prize, at least one image must be from a UP Tiger Reserve.
- Captions
All entries must be captioned. Entries with captions like "Not Applicable," "Untitled," or "Unknown" will be disqualified.
- Photo Editing Rules
- Basic editing (brightness, contrast, tone, and minor color corrections) is allowed.
- No major alterations such as object removal, addition, or reversal.
- Original EXIF files may be requested for verification.
- Manipulations
The photos should not be manipulated to alter the visual content. Using software to add or remove elements will lead to disqualification.
- File Format
- Accepted formats: JPEG / JPG only.
- Minimum resolution: 2000 pixels on the longest edge.
- File size: Between 2MB and 5MB (300 DPI).
- No watermarks, borders, or logos on images.
- Submission Deadline
All entries must be submitted before the deadline. Once submitted, no changes will be allowed.
- Plagiarism, Copyright & Ownership
Plagiarism is strictly prohibited and will lead to instant disqualification. Participants must have full copyright ownership of submitted images. Plagiarized or stolen content will be disqualified.
- Mobile / Drone Photography
Mobile & Drone photography is not allowed.
- No Logos or Watermarks
Submitted images must not contain signatures, logos, or watermarks. Such entries will be disqualified.
- Contact Details
All communication will be via Aarts Maestro Inbox, email, and WhatsApp. Ensure accurate contact details are provided during registration.
- Email Whitelist
Participants should mark hello@aartsmaestro.com & info@aartsmaestro.com as safe senders to avoid missing important updates.
- Appropriate Content
Entries depicting poaching, illegal wildlife trade, animals in captivity, or any content violating ethical or legal standards will be disqualified. Shots of Animals in Captivity - Zoo, Circus, Rehab centres etc are not allowed.
- Additional Verification
- Shortlisted participants must provide:
- RAW files in specified formats.
- Unaltered EXIF data.
- A personal interview (audio/video) with the jury panel.
- Jury Decision
The decision of the jury and judges is final and binding on all participants.
- Fraud Prevention
Shortlisted participants must provide government-approved identity proof. Failure to comply will result in cancellation of prizes.
- Prize Distribution
Winners must have an Indian bank account to receive cash prizes. Additional banking requirements may apply.
- Theme Adherence
Entries should demonstrate a strong understanding of Big Cats' behavior and species conservation.
Awards & Prizes
Gold Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 1,00,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
Silver Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 75,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
Bronze Prize
- Cash Prize: ₹ 50,000* by IBCA
- Winner's Certificate by IBCA
- Aarts Maestro Portfolio
- Online Exhibition
- Mentorship Program
- 4th - 8th Prizes (5 Special Mention Awards) : ₹ 10,000* each by IBCA Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- 9th - 10th Prizes : ₹ 3,000* each Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- 10th - 30th Prizes : ₹ 1,000* each Winner's Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition | Mentorship Program
- For all Participants : Participation Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition
- Public Choice Awards : 3 prizes (₹ 3,000, ₹ 2,000 & ₹ 1,000 each for top 3)
- A fantastic Photo Safari for one winner courtesy UP Eco Tourism Development Board @ Dudhwa National Park* This Prize will include a return Air trip from Lucknow to Dudhwa and back and a 3 night 4 day stay at Dudhwa National Park and Tiger reserve and includes Safari Tours
*Terms and Conditions for redemption of prizes :
Prizes are non-transferable & can only be redeemed in the name of the winners
The Prize is for a single person only
Where the prizes include photo-tours or holiday gift vouchers, all terms and conditions of the respective tour/holiday/stay the prize is redeemed for, will apply. These are non-negotiable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
All winners will need to furnish Govt photo ID proof upon request
All prize winners agree to provide testimonials and also create content around the competition, their experience and about sponsors. The Safari Prize winner will need to agree to T&C of the prizes to avail of the same
To be eligible for the Safari Prize, at least one of the 3 photos should be from any of the BIG CAT Reserves of UP - Amangarh, Dudhwa, Philibit or Ranipur
Theme
The "Big Cats Photography Competition" celebrates the allure and significance of big cats, highlighting their role as apex predators and symbols of wildness.
The BIG CATS Photography Competition is also about raising awareness about the critical conservation challenges they face, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
By showcasing compelling photographs, the competition seeks to inspire action to protect these endangered species and their ecosystems.
Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that showcase the following aspects:
Species Diversity: Capturing a variety of big cat species, including lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, snow Leopards and Jaguars in their natural habitats. As far as possible, participants are encouraged to showcase species diversity.
Behaviour and Interactions: Documenting intriguing behaviours such as hunting, grooming, playing, mating, and interacting with their young, their mates or their pride | family settings and other animals are highly encouraged.
Habitat and Environment: Showcasing big cats within their diverse habitats, ranging from savannas and forests to mountains and wetlands, emphasizing the importance of habitat conservation.
Portraits and Close-ups: Presenting intimate portraits and close-up shots that reveal the unique features, expressions, and personalities of these magnificent predators.
Conservation Storytelling: Using photography to tell compelling stories about the conservation challenges facing big cats and the efforts to protect their populations and habitats.
Note: No Photographs of animals in captivity – Zoo, monastery etc.
Jury Information
Dr. Mahendra Shrestha
Conservation Biologist & Vice President for Asia-Pacific, International Crane Foundation
View Profile →The Photography Competition is juried by Global Jury Panel drawn from 3 continents and 4 countries, consisting of reputed photographers and teachers of the craft. This will enable photographers to get invaluable insights on how to improve and enhance their skills and abilities, whilst also gaining valuable exposure.
To preserve the sanctity of the competition & the jury process, the names of our expert jury panel will made public just a week before the competition results are announced.
The jury process and how it works
- Composition and Technical Quality: Excellence in composition, framing, focus, exposure, Colour, Lighting, Clarity and overall technical execution of the photograph.
- Creativity and Originality: Innovative perspectives, artistic vision, and unique approaches in capturing the BIG CATS and their specific or peculiar behaviors
- Emotional Impact: The ability of the photograph to evoke emotions, create connections, and convey the magnificence of the Apex Predators - the BIG CATS
- Environmental Context: How well the photograph showcases the BIG CATS within their natural habitats, adding depth and context to the image
- Overall Impression: The overall impression and aesthetic appeal of the photograph, including its storytelling and visual impact
- Diversified Portfolio: Special jury emphasis will be placed on a diversified portfolio, representative of a maximum number BIG CATS. This is not mandatory but there will be additional points if there is a wider representation, rather than just one specific animal
- Conservation Stories: Self Explanatory. Social Impact and Newsworthy stories are sought after
Jury Panel + Public Voting: The final result will be a combination of Jury Panel and public votes in a predefined ratio. It is in the interest of the participant to forward the entries, once published on Aarts Maestro Showcase, onto Social Media handles, personal and professional networks and generate maximum interest & votes for their work. Seeking votes for your talented artistry is a privilege!
All votes will be on the Aarts Maestro Platform only. Public Votes gathered on any other social media platform will not be considered for the competition
Sign up | Log-in for voting: All those who vote will need to sign-up to Aarts Maestro and only then will they be eligible to cast votes. This procedure is mandatory to ensure a free and fair voting process
Key Dates & Timeline
Registration Closes
7th May
Submission Closes
18th May
Public Voting Begins
1st March
Jury Evaluation Begins
To be Announced
Competition Results
To be Announced
Exhibition Ends
To be Announced
Terms & Conditions
Limited Grant of Rights: Aarts Maestro respects the creator's copyright to their work and the same shall remain vested with the creator of the image. By entering into the competition, you grant the platform Aarts Maestro, the organiser / sponsor of the competition, their licensees and designees, the worldwide, irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free right to use the entry in the platform / sponsor / organizers print, electronic and web communications, on digital assets, products or any merchandise, and in ads promoting future competitions, without further permission, compensation, or notification. You further agree that the said platform / organizer / sponsor shall have the right, but not the obligation, to use your name and /or photograph for the same purposes.
For any help, contact us: hello@aartsmaestro.com (+91 78293 91391 | +91 78293 92392)
See Award Ceremony Highlights
Trusted by leading Partners & Organizations
Supported by