Are you a budding young photographer? Is your passion outdoors and wildlife photography? How would you like to win a cash prize for a top picture? If the answer to all these questions is an emphatic yes then now is the time to head outdoors with your camera – and dressed in suitable outdoor clothing– to take a winning photo for the RSPB's WildPix competition.

Part of the British Wildlife Photography Awards, the RSPB WildPix contest is open to youngsters in two age groups:  Under 12s and 12 to 18 year olds. The subject of your piccies can be anything from marine life and animal behaviour to creepy-crawlies.

Don Fuller, youth officer for RSPB south-east, said: "This is a great way to get kids interested in nature and wildlife. When you look at things through a lens it really focuses the eye and you see things in a totally different light.

"We hope lots of youngsters will get snapping and send us their pictures.”

Competition winners will receive £300 in the under-12s category and £500 for the 12 to 18s. The top photos will also be displayed in the BWPA book and the winning shots will appear in an exhibition that is set to tour the UK.

The awards are open from now until May 12 and are free to enter. Upload your images at BWPA Awards