Photographers across the Caribbean have one final week to submit their work for the second annual Seas & Scenes: Love the Caribbean Photo Contest, organized by the nonprofit Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) in partnership with Caribbean Compass magazine. The contest closes on August 31, 2026, and invites both amateur and professional photographers to capture the beauty of the region’s coasts, marine life, and island communities.
The competition is designed to celebrate the Caribbean’s natural and cultural heritage while encouraging environmental stewardship. Organizers say the contest aims to highlight the importance of protecting the region’s fragile ecosystems, from coral reefs and mangroves to beaches and coastal villages. Entries may feature seascapes, wildlife, people engaged in coastal livelihoods, or any subject that reflects the spirit of the Caribbean and its relationship with the sea.
EPIC, a regional environmental organization, has long worked on issues such as marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and climate resilience across the Lesser Antilles. The partnership with Caribbean Compass, a monthly yachting and cruising publication, brings the contest to a wide audience of sailors, island residents, and visitors who share a deep connection to Caribbean waters. The contest is open to all residents of the Caribbean, including Dominicans, as well as those with a strong tie to the region.
Winners will be selected by a panel of judges with expertise in photography, marine science, and Caribbean culture. Prizes include cash awards and publication of winning images in Caribbean Compass and on EPIC’s platforms. The contest also offers photographers the chance to have their work seen by a regional audience and to contribute to a growing visual archive of Caribbean life and nature.
Interested participants are encouraged to review the full contest rules and submission guidelines on EPIC’s website before the deadline. Organizers remind entrants that all photographs must be original and must not have been previously published in a major competition. Each photographer may submit a limited number of images, and all entries must be accompanied by a brief description of the subject and location.
The first edition of the contest, held in 2025, drew hundreds of entries from across the region, showcasing everything from vibrant coral gardens to bustling fishing ports. Organizers hope this year’s contest will build on that success and further strengthen the connection between creative expression and environmental awareness in the Caribbean.
For Dominicans, the contest offers an opportunity to share the Nature Isle’s dramatic coastlines, waterfalls, and marine reserves with a wider audience. The island’s Kalinago Territory, Scotts Head, and the Cabrits National Park are among the many locations that could provide compelling subjects for photographers seeking to capture the region’s diversity.
EPIC encourages participants to act promptly, as the deadline is fast approaching. Those with questions about eligibility, technical requirements, or the judging process can find answers in the contest’s frequently asked questions section online. The organization has also reminded entrants that late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
