Wanderlust Photo Contest

This year's Wanderlust Travel Photo of the Year competition has just opened for entries - offering trips to Mexico for the four amateur category winners.

The competition features four amateur categories: People, Wildlife, Landscape and Travel Icons. The winner of each will be awarded a 'photo commission' for two to Mexico, including accommodation.

The closing date is 1 December 2008.

There will also be a separate award for best portfolio. Open to amateurs and professionals, this boasts a £5,000 cash prize. Last year an amateur photographer triumphed over professionals to win this category.

The best shots from the competition will be published in The Independent newspaper and in Wanderlust magazine, which organises the annual awards. The winning and shortlisted entries will also go on show at the Destinations 2009 travel show in London.

It appears that the contest's terms and conditions confirm that copyright in entries remains with the photographer, however read them carefully before committing to participating.