OCBPC Raptor Photo Contest.

The Orange County Bird of Prey Center (OCBPC) invites photographers of all levels to submit their most stunning raptor photographs. Winning entries will be featured in OCBPC’s educational and outreach materials, helping us inspire our community to protect these incredible birds.

​WINNERS
OCBPC will be awarding two winners:
  • The Soaring High Award: Celebrating outstanding raptor photography from participants ages 18 and up.
  • The First Flight Award: Honoring the creativity and talent of young photographers under 18.
As a special recognition, each winning photographer will be invited to release one of the rehabilitated raptors (valued at $500), an unforgettable moment where a rehabilitated bird is returned to the wild.

GUIDELINES
  • Photos must reflect ethical wildlife practices. Please refer to the American Birding Association's Code of Ethics, which can be found here.
  • We will not accept photos showing baited, harassed, or flushed raptors, or any nests/nestlings.
  • Only photos of wild raptors native to Orange County are eligible.
  • If people are included, signed photo releases are required (parent/guardian for minors).
  • Judging is conducted blind—our panel only sees the photo details, not the photographer’s name.

PHOTO REQUIREMENTS
  • Minimum size: 12” wide x 10” high at 300 dpi (3600 x 3000 pixels)
  • Landscape format only (verticals may be cropped if quality is maintained)
  • JPG format, saved at “highest quality”
  • No watermarks, logos, or signatures (credit will be added by OCBPC if selected)
  • Each submission must be the original creation of the individual submitting it

HOW TO ENTER
  • Click the "ENTER HERE" link below
  • Entry is by a suggested donation of $25 (additional photos $5 each)
  • Your donation directly supports
    • ​Medical care and rehabilitation for injured raptors
    • Food and housing for birds in recovery
    • Education programs that inspire our community to protect wildlife
  • Contest runs from September 1, 2025, through November 1, 2025
  • Winners will be announced in December and invited to participate in a raptor release

​WHY ENTER?
By sharing your photography, you’re not only highlighting the beauty of raptors—you’re also helping give injured birds a second chance at life. Each photo entered helps fund the journey from rescue to release.​
​