| Copyright | The photographers hold the copyright to the pictures submitted, but WWC retains the unlimited right to use submitted photos for non-profit public information purposes at no cost, in which case the photographers will be acknowledged. Photos submitted to the contest become the property of WWC. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to professional and non-professional photographers, international. |
| Finish | 15 July 2010 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Theme: "Water and Cities"
The aim is to raise awareness on the many water facets in urban area. You are invited to submit a contribution capturing the essence of water and daily city life.
The photos in competition should tell a news story about water in cities from around the world. They should capture the essence of a critical moment linking water and daily city life. The photos can convey action or passiveness, success or failure, urgency or progress but should be centered around how urban life interacts with water.
- Water in urban life – Turn on your tap and the water flows… or not. Where does your water come from, which cycle does it follow from its source to our toilets, what happens with it once it’s flushed?
- Water and Climate Change – floods, droughts, pollution and scarcity are just some of the challenges millions of people experience in the face of climate change. What are their solutions or recurrent problems? What does climate change mean in small versus mega cities?
- Water for Health and Development – From the poorest and marginalised populations to leaders and experts developing solutions, what are the efforts to reach a universal access to water and sanitation?
Prizes:
- 1st Prize 1500 Euros
The first-prize winner will be invited to participate in an award ceremony during the Expo 2010 Shanghaï China (incl. flights and accommodation for 2 nights). - 2nd Prize 1000 Euros
- 3rd Prize 500 Euros
- Special Shanghai Prize 1000 Euros
Best picture taken in Shanghai - In addition, honourable mention will be given to 5 pictures.
Judging Criteria:
A first selection will be made by the prize committee according to the compliance of the pictures with the theme and with requested format and quality.
- The impact of the picture
- The originality and aesthetics of the photography
- The technical excellence
Official Rules Entry form
Official web site: http://www.worldwatercouncil.org/index.php?id=contest2010
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.
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.