17th Annual Photo Contest @ National Geographic Traveler

What can I win?

First Prize: 14-day trip for two to Guatemala, courtesy of the Guatemala Tourist Commission, including round-trip coach-class air transportation; stops include Antigua Guatemala, Chichicastenango, Atitlán Lake, and Tikal National Park, and activities include museum tours, canopy tours, and more.

Second Prize: 6-day walking tour for two in County Kerry, Ireland, courtesy of Backroads (+1 510 527 1555 or 800 462 2848 [U.S. and Canada]), including round-trip coach-class air transportation.

Third Prize: 6-day Maine windjammer cruise for two, courtesy of North End Shipyard Schooners (800 648 4544 [U.S. and Canada]) including round-trip coach-class air transportation.

7 Merit Awards: Olympus Camedia C-770 digital camera with 10x optical zoom lens, and a copy of the National Geographic Photography Field Guide.

What are my chances of winning?

That depends upon the number of submissions. Typically we get thousands of entries each year.

Will my photos be returned?

No. Due to the high volume of submissions, it is not possible for us to return entries.

Can I enter if I live outside of the U.S.?

Definitely. Entries must be postmarked no later than August 15, 2005.

When will the winners be announced?

In our January/February 2006 issue and on our Web site. Please do not call or e-mail us about the status of your entries. We will contact the winners by the end of September.

How do you define a "professional" photographer?

A professional photographer:

• Earns more than 50 percent of his or her income from photographic sales.

• Is a member of such professional photo organizations as the National Press Photographers Association.

• Publishes photographs in books, magazines, newspapers, or online regularly.