In celebration of Nature Photography Day on 15 June 2025, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) invites all garden lovers, nature enthusiasts, and photography fans to take part in a special campaign, to capture nature’s wonders.
Nature Photography Day is a global moment that celebrates the breath-taking beauty of the natural world. People across the globe will be turning their lenses toward nature, and SANBI is making it easy for South Africans to join in and celebrate local biodiversity.
“Whether you’re drawn to vibrant plant or wildlife in our national botanical gardens, dramatic garden landscapes, or the fascinating animals at our zoological gardens, this is your chance to showcase the magic of SANBI spaces and share what nature means to you. To enter, simply visit any SANBI botanical or zoological garden between now and 20 June 2025. While you’re there, take a photo that captures the essence of the space, whether it’s a blooming flower, a towering tree, a playful primate, or a peaceful moment by a pond,” says Nontsikelelo Mpulo, Director: Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation at SANBI.
“Then, share your photo on Instagram, Facebook, or X using the hashtag #NaturePhotographyDay2025, #SANBI4Nature #SANBINatureSnaps and tag SANBI along with the garden you visited,” says Mpulo.
There’s something special in store. One winner will receive a SANBI gardens membership for two people, giving them free entry to their favourite garden for an entire year.
““Whether your photo features a Southern Ground Hornbill, an aloe, small insect or a shady garden trail, every entry is welcome and celebrated,” explains Mpulo.
“Nature Photography Day is about more than just beautiful pictures, it is about reconnecting with our living world and appreciating the plants, animals, and ecosystems that sustain us. It’s also a moment to inspire others to explore, discover, and protect the natural spaces around them. You have until 20 June 2025 to enter, so grab your camera or phone, head to your nearest SANBI garden, and capture something magical,” concluded Mpulo.
SANBI Nature Photography Day 2025 competition
Terms and conditions
By entering the SANBI Nature Photography Day 2025 competition, participants agree to the following terms and conditions:
Eligibility
- The competition is open to all residents of South Africa.
- There is no age restriction, but entrants under 18 must have permission from a parent or guardian.
- Employees of SANBI and their immediate family members are not eligible to win.
How to Enter:
- Visit any of SANBI’s National Botanical Gardens or the National Zoological Garden between 10 and 20 June 2025.
- Take a photograph that captures the essence of nature in the garden you visited.
- Post your photo on Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly Twitter) using the hashtag #NaturePhotographyDay2025 and #SANBINatureSnaps
- Tag SANBI’s official account and the specific SANBI garden where the photo was taken.
Entry rules
- Entries must be submitted by midnight on 20 June 2025.
- Members of the public may submit as many images from one garden as they wish.
- The photo must be original and taken by the entrant during the competition period.
- Participants give SANBI the right to use photographs and relinquish any IP claim related to the photograph.
- Entries must not contain offensive, inappropriate, or copyrighted material belonging to others.
Prizes
- One winner will receive a SANBI Gardens Membership for two people, valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
- The prize includes free access to any of SANBI’s national botanical or zoological gardens for two people .
Privacy
- SANBI reserves the right to contact entrants via their social media accounts
- SANBI reserves the right to use competition photographs for promotional purposes after the competition. Photographers will be credited.
Media inquiries:
Nontsikelelo Mpulo
Director: Marketing Communications and Commercialisation
Cell: 082 782 7143
E-mail: n.mpulo@sanbi.org.za