A Year in the Country: Vote for Your Favourite Countryfile Moments in the 2026 Calendar Competition The iconic BBC Countryfile calendar is back, and this year, you have the power to shape its stunning imagery. For 2026, the beloved programme is launching a public vote to select the most captivating photographs that will grace its pages. Forget generic landscapes; this competition is all about celebrating the unique, the eye-catching, and the truly unforgettable moments captured across the British countryside. This year’s theme is "Unexpected Beauty," encouraging submissions that showcase the hidden gems, surprising details, and breathtakingly unusual sights that often go unnoticed. The competition, open to both amateur and professional photographers, has generated significant excitement, with a record number of entries flooding in from across the UK. Judges, including renowned landscape photographer [Insert name of a renowned landscape photographer], Countryfile presenters [Insert names of 2-3 Countryfile presenters], and a representative from the BBC, have been tasked with the monumental job of narrowing down thousands of breathtaking images to a shortlist of 100. This shortlist, showcasing the diverse beauty of the British Isles, will be available for public voting online. Why this year’s calendar is different: Past Countryfile calendars have always been popular, offering a comforting and familiar view of the British countryside. However, the 2026 edition aims to be bolder, more innovative, and truly reflective of the unexpected wonders that lie hidden within our landscapes. The "Unexpected Beauty" theme encourages photographers to move beyond the postcard-perfect scenes and delve into the intricacies of nature, showcasing the quirky, the surprising, and the often overlooked details that make the British countryside so unique. This shift in focus is reflected in the shortlisted images. Instead of solely featuring sweeping vistas, the selection includes intimate close-ups of wildflowers, dramatic shots of wildlife in unexpected settings, and intriguing perspectives that challenge traditional notions of landscape photography. Imagine a dew-laden spiderweb glistening in the morning sun, a lone heron silhouetted against a vibrant sunset, or a playful otter family frolicking amongst reeds – these are the kinds of images vying for a place in the 2026 calendar. How the voting process works: The voting process is designed to be simple, accessible, and engaging. The 100 shortlisted images will be displayed on a dedicated website, each with a brief description provided by the photographer, explaining the story behind the shot and the unique circumstances of its capture. Voters can browse the gallery, exploring the diverse range of photographic styles and subjects, from breathtaking panoramas to intimate close-ups. Each voter will have the opportunity to select their top twelve favourite photographs. This allows for a more nuanced voting experience, enabling participants to choose a diverse range of images that represent their personal vision of the British countryside. The twelve photographs receiving the most votes will be featured in the final 2026 Countryfile calendar, ensuring a truly representative and visually stunning collection. The impact of public participation: The public vote is more than just a fun competition; it’s a powerful demonstration of the public’s connection with the British countryside. It allows viewers to actively participate in shaping a product they love, giving them a sense of ownership and pride in the final result. This participatory approach fosters a deeper engagement with the programme and its commitment to showcasing the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Furthermore, the competition provides a platform for talented amateur photographers to gain recognition and exposure. Many aspiring photographers dream of seeing their work featured in a widely circulated publication like the Countryfile calendar. This opportunity not only boosts their confidence and portfolio but also allows them to share their unique perspective with a large audience, inspiring others to appreciate the hidden beauty of their local surroundings. The judging panel’s perspective: The judging panel, a blend of photography experts and Countryfile personalities, has emphasized the high standard of entries this year. [Insert quote from a judge about the quality of entries and the difficulty of selecting a shortlist]. The panel has been particularly impressed by the innovative approaches to capturing the "Unexpected Beauty" theme, with photographers employing creative techniques and unique perspectives to showcase the less-obvious aspects of the British countryside. [Insert a quote from a Countryfile presenter about the excitement of the public vote and the anticipation for the final calendar]. The presenters have expressed their enthusiasm for the public vote, highlighting the importance of public engagement in shaping the final product and reflecting the diverse tastes and preferences of Countryfile viewers. Beyond the Calendar: A Legacy of Conservation: The Countryfile calendar is more than just a beautiful collection of photographs; it’s a celebration of the British countryside and a testament to its enduring appeal. By showcasing the stunning beauty of our natural world, the calendar aims to inspire a sense of appreciation and responsibility towards its conservation. A portion of the proceeds from calendar sales will be donated to [Insert name of environmental charity], supporting their vital work in protecting and preserving the British countryside for future generations. The 2026 Countryfile calendar voting competition is not simply a contest; it’s a shared experience, a collaborative effort to create a truly unique and memorable calendar. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the hidden beauty of the British Isles, to discover new perspectives, and to participate in shaping a legacy of appreciation for the natural world. So, get ready to vote, and help choose the images that will define the Countryfile calendar for 2026. The voting period begins on [Insert date] and ends on [Insert date]. Visit [Insert website address] to view the shortlist and cast your vote. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something truly special.