| Copyright | Copyright of all images remains with the artist. Selected artists grant permission for publication and promotional use of the images before the final judging on the image occurs. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 15 March 2011 |
| Entry fee | Professional - $15; Non-professional - $10 |
Finished
Camera Obscura Journal accepts for its photography contest any photographic-based artwork. The artwork need not consist exclusively of photography. Photography-based mixed media artworks are encouraged for submission, in addition to straight photography as long as it can be submitted electronically.
Theme: Open
Prizes:
- Professional
- $1,200 cash award and publication in the Camera Obscura Journal of Literature & Photography. Selected finalists also receive publication.
- In addition, finalists receive a professional marketing template from © The Polished Photograher – worth $100.
- Non-professional
- $300 cash award and publication. Finalists also receive publication.
Professional designation: photographers who earn more than 25% of their income from photography. Non-professionals may also enter the professional category. There is no limit of entries. Submit highest quality .jpg, .jpeg files. (4meg or less).
Judging criteria:
- artistic merit
- technical proficiency
Official website: www.obscurajournal.com/guidelines.php
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 — 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.