| Copyright | Copyright remains exclusively with the authors but, by entering this competition, you agree to allow your work as a shortlisted entry to be: a) included in the winning entries on the Pixel and Grain website b) showcased in any publications created by us to document the exhibition. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all ages, international - however the Vision 2010 category is only open to photographers aged between 16 and 26 at the closing date of 30th October 2010. The 'At The Heart of Three Cities' category is only open to residents and visitors to Charnwood during May/June 2010. |
| Finish | 30 November 2010 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThis competition is aimed at young photographers in the UK and worldwide.
Categories:
- Category 1:
“Vision 2010 – The World As You See It” is open to interpretation and is designed to encourage younger photographers – It is STRICTLY limited to young photographers who are 16-25 at the time of the competition closing date for entries.
Prize: £300. An exhibition of winning entries will take place at the Pixel and Grain gallery space in Loughborough Town Hall in 2011.
Closing date for entries 30th October 2010. - Category 2:
‘At the Heart of Three Cities’ is a category aimed at residents and visitors to the borough of Charnwood in the months of May and June 2010.
Closing date for entries 30th July 2010. - Category 3:
‘Photo Essays’ – In six images we want you to tell a story, develop an awareness of a context and produce a consistency of quality that will make us sit up and take notice!
First Prize: £400. We will be exhibiting winning entries at Charnwood Museum next year.
Closing date for entries 30th November 2010. - Category 4:
‘ClickIt! Open – The Art of Photography’ – an open category for all ages to send a single image on any subject – landscape, portrait, urban, event, abstract, sport, performance just bear in mind the venue for the exhibition of winning entries is family viewing.
First prize: £300. The winning entrant will also be invited to submit a solo exhibition later in 2011.
Closing date for entries: 30th September 2010.
Digital entries only – max file size 300kb, 800 pixels wide on the max edge for the first round of judging – you will be asked for high resolution files if your work proceeds to the next round of the competition which is also judged on print quality. Image post processing will be allowed in all categories.
The Photo Essay category may be accompanied by no more than 250 words (there is no lower limit). A single title is required for the overall entry. Words should be entered on the notes section of the entry form.
Official website: http://clickit2010.sharedspace.org/
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.