| Copyright | You consent to the use of your award winning images, without additional compensation in any media or format for any purposes deemed appropriate by Olympus in the promotion of the BioScapes competition. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all, worldwide. |
| Finish | 30 September 2011 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Submit images of life science specimens captured through light microscopes, using any magnification, any illumination technique and any brand of equipment.
Prizes:
- First Prize is the winner’s choice of Olympus microscope or camera equipment valued at $5,000.
- Nine additional winners will also receive valuable prizes from Olympus, and many more will receive recognition as honorable mentions.
- Selected winning images also become part of a traveling exhibit tour of museums and academic institutions.
Each person entering can submit up to five movies, images, or image sequences (such as time lapse series). Entries must include information on the importance or "story" behind the images. Winners are notified in late October and are announced publicly in November. ultiple images that the entrant wants considered together as a single sequence must be consolidated into a zip file for submission.
Official website: www.olympusbioscapes.com
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.