FACE and Messe Dortmund join once again to celebrate the diversity of hunting and nature
The magic of hunting lies in the small moments: the first light of dawn, the quiet crackling in the forest, eye contact with the game. These are all stories that want to be told – in pictures that move. And it is precisely these pictures that Messe Dortmund and the European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE), partner of JAGD & HUND, are looking for. Following its premiere at this year’s trade fair, the “European Hunting Photo of the Year” photo competition is now entering its second round. Amateur and professional photographers can submit their images online starting now.
Dortmund, 12 September 2025 – The aim of the competition is to showcase the diversity, values, and personal stories of hunters and nature lovers across Europe. Infront of a jury of experts and, of course, the audience at Europe’s largest hunting fair. The most emotional, impressive, and authentic hunting photos can now be submitted on the trade fair website. Important: The organisers are looking for images that showcase the aesthetic side of hunting—the connection with nature, the experience of tradition, and respect for game. Photos of hunters with their kills will not be accepted.
A dedicated expert jury will evaluate the photos and select the winners. They will be announced next year during the JAGD & HUND trade fair (January 27 to February 1, 2026) in front of a large audience on the main stage in Hall 4. In addition, the winning photos will be exhibited at the trade fair and the winners can look forward to high-quality prizes.
FACE-president Laurens Hoedemaker highlights the goals of the competition: “FACE is delighted to once again join forces with JAGD & HUND, Europe’s largest hunting fair and a long-standing FACE Gold Patron, to launch the second edition of the ‘Europe’s Hunting Photo of the Year’ competition. We are deeply grateful for JAGD & HUND’s continued support and commitment to hunting and conservation across Europe. This initiative is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the beauty, diversity, and cultural richness of hunting, as well as the respect for nature that unites hunters and other nature lovers. We look forward to celebrating the winning photographs with thousands of visitors at JAGD & HUND 2026 in Dortmund.”
There are four categories to choose from, covering very different aspects of hunting:
Wildlife & Landscape
This category honors impressive photographs of wild animals in their natural habitat. The focus is on natural scenes, aesthetic landscapes, and the quiet interplay between wildlife and their habitat.
New perspectives
This category celebrates fresh faces and modern perspectives on hunting. Wanted are authentic snapshots of young hunters and people who are breaking new ground in hunting culture—whether in training, practice, or community.
Fresh on the table
Whether in processing or serving, this category celebrates game as a valuable food source.
Hunting culture & tradition
Hunting horns, clothing, equipment: the focus here is on traditional elements and rituals of hunting. The motifs should highlight what makes hunting unique.
Photographers now have until 15 December 2025 to get involved. Each participant may submit up to five photos and must be over 18 years of age. The detailed conditions of participation can be found on the website.
>>> Tickets for the trade fair are of course already available – here.
JAGD & HUND – EUROPE’S LARGEST HUNTING EXHIBITION
Once a year, Europe’s largest hunting exhibition JAGD & HUND opens its doors to the public, offering hunting and nature enthusiasts a universe of hunting-related opportunities at Dortmund Exhibition Centre’s superb indoor and outdoor facilities. As well as showcasing a comprehensive range of products, the fair is also characterised by a varied supporting programme which makes JAGD & HUND very special, turning it into a unique shopping and leisure experience for people of all ages. Meanwhile, the tandem culinary WILD FOOD FESTIVAL gives visitors the opportunity to meet professional, TV and celebrity chefs revealing modern, tasty and varied ways to prepare game dishes. For anyone looking to experience a unique mix of modern hunting practice and cultural tradition at first hand, JAGD & HUND is surely the place to be.
DATE:
27 January – 01 February 2026
EVENT ORGANISER:
Messe Dortmund GmbH
CONCEPTUAL SPONSORS:
- LJV NRW: Landesjagdverband NRW e.V. (State Hunting Association of North-Rhine Westphalia)
- JGHV: Jagdgebrauchshundverband e.V. (Working Gundog Association)
TARGET GROUPS:
Hunters, dog and nature lovers, and lovers of good cuisine
