| Copyright | Copyright and all other rights remains with the author. All entrants understand that the Organisers may use images of the winning project for marketing and promotional purposes of Foundation activities directly related to our award competition. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers worldwide, 18+ years of age. |
| Finish | 31 May 2011 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
The goal is to create an online showcase of outstanding work by photographers around the world
Award:
- One outstanding social documentary photographer will be awarded with a grant of $5,000 USD, to be utilized in the production or completion of a social documentary project to be completed by March 1, 2012..
Two rounds selection process:
- In round one, submit by May 31 a single contact sheet of up to 15 images and an essay describing your work and proposed project.
- In round two, those applicants whose work is of the highest excellence will be invited to submit full size images for our online showcase.
Submit to [email protected] a single page PDF contact sheet sample of your work (black & white or color) must consist of no more than 15 images. Only digital file submissions. The pdf file should not exceed 10 MB in size. The images do not have to be directly related to the proposed project, but should reflect your best work in documentary photography. No signature, stamp or any other identifying mark is to be printed anywhere on submitted images.
Your photos and proposed project must be based on pressing social issues in developing nations or communities of poverty as health, poverty, oppression, war, famine, religious/political persecution, and similar subjects.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: mrofoundation.org/
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.