| Copyright | Winners will also be required to grant CentralPark.com and Jumeirah Essex House use of the winning photo, together with their names, likenesses and biographical information, in advertising and publicity about the Contest or future contests without further compensation. |
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| Eligibility | Contest open only to legal residents of the 50 United States and Washington, D.C., 18 years or older at time of entry. |
| Entry fee | Free |
Each season the top thirty user-uploaded pictures, as rated by our members, will be passed on to a panel of five renowned judges. These judges will determine the top 3 lucky winning photos for each of our seasonal contests.
The Grand Prize each season includes a two night complimentary stay at the world renowned Jumeirah Essex House Hotel, just across the street form Central Park!
Only images taken of Central Park during the specific season being judged will be considered for the competition. For example a summer photo will not be considered during the winter season.
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Photos will be judged by a qualified panel of judges on the basis of the following:
- How well the photo conveys the subject: Central Park; images may include natural beauty, architectural points of interest, people enjoying the park and or/any other images that reflect the unique and distinct character of Central Park.
- How well the image conveys the season being judged.
- Photographic quality.
- Visual appeal.
- Originality.
Entrants are allowed five submissions per season. Each season there will be one first place winner for a total of four equal first place prizes at the end of the year. Contestants may submit photos for all four seasons of the contest, however if the contestant wins the first place prize they may not enter the contest again.
Official web site: www.centralpark.com/pages/photo-contest.html
Rules: www.centralpark.com/pages/photo-contest/terms-and-conditions.html
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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.
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.