| Copyright | Entrants retain ownership and all other rights to future use of their photographs. By submitting an entry, the entrant grants permission for the contest sponsor to publish, post, display and otherwise make use of the photograph on the WWW. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers from the USA who are 18+ years of age. |
| Finish | 8 August 2010 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedWe are looking for striking images of the Mississippi River and surrounding wetlands that show what an awesome resource it is and its relationship with people and nature. These images may show wildlife, Mississippi River landscapes, weather or people enjoying the River on trails, boats or river banks. Ideal photographs will convey a sense of the Mississippi River as a national treasure, cultural icon and source of community pride.
Divisions:
- Professional Photographer
- Amateur Photographer
Three finalist images from each of the two divisions will be selected based on how well the photos meet the intent of the theme, originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact and artistic merit.
Prizes:
- First Prize: one for each of the professional and amateur divisions: Exploring the River: Clik Elite Compact Sport 25 Camera Pack ($150.00). Joby Gorillapod SLR with Level ($39.95). Aquapac Compact Waterproof Camera Case ($40.00)
- Second Place Prize: one for each of the professional and amateur divisions: Relaxing along the River: ENO ProNest Hammock ($64.95). Eton American Red Cross Solarlink FR360 Radio ($50.00)
- Third Place Prize: one for each of the professional and amateur divisions: Dining Along the River: Picnic set with camping stool ($54.99) Additional picnic place settings ($40.00)
Digital photos and traditional film photos are both eligible for entry. Entries may be digital files, digital prints, color transparencies, color prints, or black and white prints. All photographs should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared. Photos that have been digitally altered, or “photoshopped,” beyond dust removal, cropping, or natural adjustments to color and contrast, etc. will be disqualified.
Official website: www.1mississippi.net/1-mississippi-photo-contest
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.