WMO 2027 Calendar Competition: Celebrating 'Your Weather, Your World'

WMO 2027 Calendar Competition: Celebrating 'Your Weather, Your World'

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has officially launched its 2027 Calendar Photography Competition, an annual event that garners global participation. This year's theme, "Your Weather, Your World," invites photographers to capture the intricate and profound ways in which weather, climate, and water influence our daily lives and the environment. (unric.org)

Theme and Objectives

The chosen theme emphasizes the dynamic relationship between humanity and the natural elements. Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that depict:

• Dramatic Weather Events: Images showcasing storms, lightning, or other extreme weather phenomena.
• Spectacular Cloud Formations: Captures of unique or breathtaking cloud patterns.
• Serene Landscapes: Photos illustrating the tranquility of nature influenced by weather conditions.
• Human Interaction with Nature: Everyday moments where weather and climate play a pivotal role.

The competition aims to highlight the beauty, power, and wonder of our planet, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of meteorological phenomena.

Submission Guidelines

To ensure a fair and high-quality selection process, the WMO has outlined specific submission criteria:

• Image Quality: Photographs must have a minimum resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels.
• Format: Submissions should be in JPEG or TIFF format with minimal compression to preserve image quality.
• Orientation: Only landscape (horizontal) images are accepted.
• Color: Both black and white and color photographs are eligible.
• Captioning: Each photo must include a title, location, and the date it was taken.
• Authenticity: Entries generated or manipulated using artificial intelligence (AI) will be disqualified.

The deadline for submissions is 16 August 2026. (unric.org)

Judging Criteria

A panel of WMO experts will evaluate entries based on:

• Relevance to Theme: How well the image illustrates "Your Weather, Your World."
• Technical Excellence: Quality, clarity, and composition of the photograph.
• Visual Impact: The overall aesthetic appeal and emotional resonance.
• Originality: Novelty and unexpected perspectives.

Shortlisted photographs will be showcased on WMO's social media platforms, allowing the public to vote for their favorites. The final selection will consider both public votes and the jury's assessment to ensure geographical balance and thematic diversity. (unric.org)

Recognition and Exposure

Winning photographs will be featured in the printed WMO 2027 Calendar and will gain significant exposure through:

• WMO Website: Displayed prominently for global audiences.
• Social Media Platforms: Shared across various channels to reach a diverse audience.
• Public Outreach Materials: Utilized in educational and promotional content.
• World Meteorological Day 2027 Celebrations: Highlighted during events and campaigns.

While there is no financial reward, the recognition and visibility offered provide substantial value to photographers.

The Role of AI in Photography

The explicit disqualification of AI-generated or manipulated images underscores the WMO's commitment to authenticity in capturing natural phenomena. This decision reflects broader discussions in the photography community about the role of AI in creative processes.

For photographers interested in exploring AI's capabilities in image generation and editing, platforms like PixelDojo offer a suite of tools:

• MAI Image: Microsoft's text-to-image tool that produces images with crisp detail and natural lighting. Explore MAI Image
• Nano Banana 2: A tool for multi-image fusion and editing, leveraging Google's advanced algorithms. Discover Nano Banana 2
• Reve 2.1: Allows users to generate, edit, or remix up to eight images with frame-level control. Try Reve 2.1

These tools enable photographers and artists to experiment with AI-driven image creation, offering new avenues for creativity while maintaining the integrity of traditional photography.

Conclusion

The WMO 2027 Calendar Photography Competition offers a unique platform for photographers worldwide to showcase their talent and contribute to a global appreciation of meteorological phenomena. By adhering to the submission guidelines and embracing the theme "Your Weather, Your World," participants have the opportunity to gain international recognition and highlight the profound impact of weather and climate on our lives.

For more details and to submit your entries, visit the official competition page. (unric.org)