Nature Slides and Prints – General Definition

The Nature section of the entry form must state the PSA Nature Definition which is as follows:

"Nature photography is restricted to the use of the photographic process to depict observations from all branches of natural history, except anthropology and archeology, in such a fashion that a well informed person will be able to identify the subject material and to certify as to its honest presentation.

The story telling value of a photograph must be weighed more than the pictorial quality. Human elements shall not be present, except on the rare occasion where those human elements enhance the nature story. The presence of scientific bands on wild animals is acceptable. Photographs of artificially produced hybrid plants or animals, mounted specimens, or obviously set arrangements, are ineligible, as is any form of manipulation that alters the truth of the photographic statement. No elements may be moved, cloned, added, deleted, rearranged or combined. No manipulation or modification is permitted except resizing, cropping, selective lightening or darkening, and restoration of original color of the scene. No special effect filters can be applied. Any sharpening must appear natural."

Nature Slides and Prints – Wildlife Definition

c. PSA Authentic Wildlife:

i. Wildlife is defined as one or more organisms Definition for the Wildlife Medal, "Authentic living free and unrestrained in a natural or adopted habitat. Therefore, photographs of zoo or game farm animals are not eligible for the PSA Silver Wildlife Medal."

ii. Exhibitions presenting the PSA Nature Wildlife Gold Medal are to include on their entry forms:

a. The preceding definition of authentic wildlife in addition to the general nature definition.

b. A “box” to the right of the entry title space to be marked "W" by the entrant as certification that the photograph so designated complies with both the general nature and the authentic wildlife definitions.