Photo Contest

Human Traces

A disappearing footprint in the snow, the remains of an old shepherd’s hut, a golden wheat field, the winding street of a picturesque village, a cairn built by unknown hands…

Humans have been wandering the Alps for thousands of years, from Ötzi’s fateful journey through the mountains 5.000 years ago, Hannibal’s mythical crossing, to today’s leisure trips. We have been leaving marks all across.

Today the Alps bear witness to a sometimes-fragile balance between human activity and nature. Landscapes, ecosystems and cultural heritage have been shaped by generations of inhabitants and passersby and continue to evolve in the face of climate change, tourism, mobility and new ways of living.

With the theme “Human Traces”, we invite you to explore how humans have shaped the Alps. Some traces are the testimonies of ancient ways of living, some of modern times. Some are impossible to overlook, while others require a piercing gaze. Some we left intentionally, wanting to show our legacy. Others are unintended consequences of our presence. Some will outlast us, while others are ephemeral.

Share your perspective with us by sending your contribution to the 2027 Alpine Convention calendar by 1 September 2026!

Awards and prizes

The thirteen best photos will be included in the 2027 edition of the Alpine Convention’s calendar and the photographers of the winning photos will receive Alpine Convention gifts.

Of the thirteen selected photos, the Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention will choose the three best unique photographs and award them the three following prizes:

• 1^st prize: € 500
• 2^nd prize: € 350
• 3^rd prize: € 200

Call and submission criteria

Register here