| Copyright | Copyright of all images remains with the artist. By submitting an image into the competition, entrant grants to Sfumato Press LLC (dba Camera Obscura Journal) an unlimited license to publish and/or reproduce the submitted image(s) either online on its web site or blog and/or in its print journal. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Professional and Non-professional may enter. |
| Finish | 15 February 2010 |
| Entry fee | $15 per entry for Professional category and $10.00 per entry for Non-professional. |
FinishedTheme: "bond" – familial, chemical, bail, or anything in betweeen. Both literal and creative interpretations of this theme are welcome.
Camera Obscura accepts for competition any photography-based artwork. The artwork need not consist exclusively of photography. Photography-based mixed media artworks are encouraged for submission, in addition to straight photography.
Categories:
- Professional (This category is reserved for photographers who earn more than 25% of their income from photography)
Prize – $1,200 and publication. Selected finalists also receive publication. - Non-professional (Entrants in the non-professional category may also enter the professional category.)
Prize – $300 and publication. Finalists also receive publication.
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Characteristics considered in judging these photographic artworks include:
- artistic merit (use of the elements and principles of art and design, as well as artistic impact)
- creativity
- technical proficiency
- expression of the theme
- effective use of light
The photographs are judged anonomously. Winners Announced March 1, 2010
Official web site: http://www.obscurajournal.com/guidelines.php
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 — International photography contests
Who can enter international photography contests?
Most international contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of nationality or experience level. Always verify eligibility on the official contest page—some restrict by age (18+), amateur/professional status, or thematic focus.
Are international photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$50 per image, with early-bird discounts often available. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do international photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$25,000) to gallery exhibitions, publication features, professional gear, and artist residencies. Prestigious awards like the Sony World Photography Awards or IPA carry significant industry recognition.
How do I choose which international contest to enter?
Align your strongest work with the contest theme and review past winners to gauge aesthetic preferences. Confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), check rights clauses carefully, and prioritize contests whose mission matches your artistic goals.