| Entry fee | Free |
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How to enter: Entrants may enter once every week until the close of the Contest. No fee or purchase of any kind is required to enter or win.
Weekly Prize: The name of each weekly winner will be published in the Digital Focus column on the PC World Web site, along with a link to the winning photo.
Monthly Prize: Each monthly winner will receive a gift from PC World, such as a PC World CD carrying case. The monthly prizes may vary each month and will be determined by the Judges, but in no event shall the estimated retail price of any monthly prize be less than $15 or exceed $50.
Entrants may only enter the Contest in the following way:
Send via e-mail one digital photograph in JPEG format at a resolution no larger than 640 by 480 pixels, along with the title of the photo, a short description of the photo, and your name, e-mail address, and postal address (collectively, an “Entry”), to the author of the Digital Focus newsletter at [email protected].
Frequently asked questions — Free photography contests
Who can enter free photography contests?
Most free contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of experience level or equipment. Many explicitly encourage students, hobbyists, and emerging creators—always verify age requirements or thematic restrictions on the official contest page.
Are free photography contests really free?
Yes—entry is $0 across the board. Some contests offer optional paid perks like expedited feedback or printed certificates, but submission, judging, and basic participation remain completely free. Fee status is confirmed in the Quick Facts section on each PhotoCompete listing.
What prizes do free photography contests offer?
Prizes vary widely: cash awards range $100–$5,000, while non-monetary rewards include online features, publication credits, mentorship sessions, exhibition inclusion, or gear donations. Even without cash, free contests offer valuable exposure and portfolio-building opportunities.
How do I choose which free contest to enter?
Prioritize contests whose theme or mission aligns with your work. Review past winners to gauge style preferences, confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), and read rights clauses carefully—even free contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.