| Finish | 31 December 2007 |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | $15 for 5 photos |
FinishedThis contest is aimed at hobby photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. Photographs must have been taken by amateur photographers and cannot have been previously used for any promotional or commercial purposes.
Step 1: Photo submissions take place from October 15th through December 31, 2007.
Step 2: Submitted photos will be reviewed by 5 esteemed judges on January 5th.
Step 3: Photos that make the cut will be posted for online voting between January 6th through the 13th (only ONE week of voting this year).
Step 4: Photo of the Year 2007 will be chosen and revealed at the party on January 19th!
2007 Photo Categories
We mix these up a bit each year. One new addition for POTY 2007 is Water. As usual, the winner of the Top 100 category will be crowned Photo of the Year 2007.
Top 100: Dramatic vistas, stunning flora and fauna, an artful picture of a door…you name it. Top 100 photos can be of just about anything (anything fit for family consumption, that is). As the name implies, 100 photos will compete against each other for the honored title of Photo of the Year 2007.
Water: This one is new for POTY 2007. Water is all around us. It flows. It freezes. It quenches. Shower us in your best and favorite shots of H2O.
Adrenaline: Sponsored by UberplexMax Energy Drink! Just kidding. We made that up. For real, this year we’re looking for your best photos that speak the word “adrenaline.” What makes your adrenaline flow? Be creative.
Faces: Who can forget Goat Boy from POTY 2005? Let’s see your best up close and personal photos. Good luck beating Goat Boy’s cuteness, though.
Youth: Any under 18ers out there with a strong attachment to your digital camera? This category is for you. Use that youthful imagination and make your mom proud. TEACHERS, say it with us, “Hmm…Photo of the Year…what a great addition to my curriculum…I should email the folks at POTY about submitting photos as a class!”
FAQ
Submit Photos
Frequently asked questions — Amateur photography contests
Who can enter amateur photography contests?
Most amateur contests welcome non-professional photographers worldwide—hobbyists, students, and emerging creators. Many explicitly exclude those who earn primary income from photography to ensure a level playing field. Always verify age requirements and amateur-status definitions on the official contest page.
Are amateur photography contests free to enter?
Many are free or low-cost: entry fees typically range from $0–$25 per submission, with student discounts or early-bird rates often available. Fee status and discount tiers are confirmed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do amateur photography contests offer?
Prizes emphasize growth and exposure: cash awards range $100–$2,500, while non-monetary rewards include mentorship feedback, online feature spots, workshop scholarships, or entry credits to advanced contests. Even without large cash prizes, these contests offer valuable confidence-building opportunities.
How do I choose which amateur contest to enter?
Prioritize contests that match your current skill level and genre interests. Look for opportunities offering constructive feedback or educational components, confirm that professional photographers are excluded (if that matters to you), and review rights clauses—even amateur contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.