RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2011

There are two new categories in this year's RSPCA Young Photographer Awards (YPA11) which is now calling for entries. The first new category is looking for shots that illustrate how animals make people’s lives better while the second new category is the Garden Wildlife award. Young photographers can also enter their age category, Pet Personalities and the Portfolio award. For the first time wildlife film maker and TV presenter Simon King OBE is judging and presenting the awards. He said: "The RSPCA works hard to improve the lives of animals both domestic and wild. Wildlife Whisperer is proud to be able to support the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards and I look forward to meeting the winners in December."

The overall winner will go on an a three-day photography break with top wildlife photographer Danny Green, courtesy of Natures Images. Olympus cameras worth up to £500 are also up for grabs for the winners and runners up in each category, as well as lots more prizes. YPA11 judge Joe Murphy, chief photographer at the RSPCA, said: "The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards are one of the best animal photography competitions in the UK for under 19s to enter and they attract some fantastic talent. I think the recognition these photographers receive is nothing more than they deserve. No doubt this year – with the addition of the new categories – we will receive even more entries that show what a nation of animal lovers and great photographers we are. We want to see stunning pictures of animals of all kinds in all situations, from pets to wildlife, and insects to birds."

The deadline for entries is Monday 5 September 2011. Visit the competition's website for more information.