| Copyright | By entering you grant Shutterfly a licence to use your image. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to US residents, over 18. |
| Finish | 7 December 2010 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Theme: "Holiday Joy"
Prizes:
- One Winner – US $1,000
- Each Runner-Up – US $250
Each photograph must be no larger than 5MB and must be submitted in .gif, .jpg, or .jpeg format.
Judging Criteria:
- Relevance: Photos that are appropriate for a holiday card
- Originality and creativity
- Entry quality
Official website: www.shutterfly.com/holidaycontest/
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.