Something changes when we go outside. Our spirits are lifted and the stresses of everyday life shrink away. We find inspiration by observing the big things, like epic landscapes, and the small things, like the patterns of moss on a rock.
Nature gives us all a little something different. That’s why we asked participants of The Nature Conservancy’s previous photo contests to share reflections on just how meaningful nature is in their lives.
This is what nature means to you:
Nature is everything to me. It reminds me of who I am, it pushes me to leave the comfort zone and feel alive every second of my existence.

Only in nature can we find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.


“Spending time out here helps to keep me grounded and reminds me that we have a deep connection to this earth and responsibility to protect it.
Nature makes life magical.

Nature matters to me because it sustains my spiritual, emotional and physical well-being. It’s a place where I can feel alive.

Nature not only gives myself & others peace of mind, a sense of balance and the wonderment of its beauty, but it sustains all of our lives as well. We need to embrace nature & protect nature’s life & in doing so protecting our own


Nature has always been a place of reflection for me, a place where I can slow down & process everything going on in my life. Finding an undisturbed location in nature & having it all to myself...allows my mind to focus creatively.
Being in the woods calms me, centers me and soothes my soul.

Nature is a constant reminder of both mortality & also our resilience. Life adapts to so many contrasting environments. Life overcomes so many challenges & obstacles, evolving over the ages to become stronger, learning & growing.

Nature is where we find solitude, strength, beauty, healing. It must be respected and treasured.

Announcing the 2022 Global Photo Contest Winners
The Nature Conservancy is thrilled to announce the winners by category of our 2022 Global Photo Contest.