| Copyright | Applicants retain the copyrights to any imagery submitted for the judges’ review. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to professional and student Photojournalists worldwide. |
| Finish | 1 May 2011 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThe grant program was created to provide both emerging and established photographers with the means to pursue projects of personal and journalistic significance.
Grants:
- Fve grants of $20,000 each to provide photojournalists with funding to pursue projects of personal and journalistic significance.
Grants will be announced in September.
Selection will be based on judges’ determination of applicant’s ability to execute the submitted project with compelling visual narrative in documentary feature format, taking into account the caliber of portfolio, project merit and professional ability.
You need to submit a very short written description of the project they want to pursue, some imagery from their portfolio, and their biographical information to the Grants program. The proposals must be in English and be submitted electronically.
- A proposal mapping out the scope and purpose of your project in 500 words or less.
- A bio, maximum 500 words.
- 20-25 portfolio images, sized to 3000 pixels at the longest dimension, 300 dpi, saved as JPG with standard compression no lower than 8 on the JPG scale.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: imagery.gettyimages.com/getty_images_grants/overview.aspx
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.