| Copyright | Photographers retain their rights to submitted images. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all emerging photojournalists worldwide. |
| Finish | 15 March 2012 |
| Entry fee | USD $10.00 |
FinishedPROOF wants to help emerging photojournalists do meaningful projects related to human rights and social justice issues. This is the right opportunities for you if you:
- have not yet been exhibited or published widely
- demonstrate a commitment to human rights and social justice issues
- do not have agency representation.
Awards:
- The selected photojournalist will receive USD $2500 to put toward their project.
- The final three candidates will have their work showcased through GOOD.
- Second and third place finalists will also have the opportunity for a portfolio review with Jamie Wellford of Newsweek.
Judges: Leora Kahn, Executive Director of PROOF, Ed Kashi of VII, Amy Yenkin from the Open Society Foundations, and Ann Friedman, Executive Editor of GOOD.
You need to submit:
- Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words)
- Project proposal and budget summary (maximum 500 words)
- Portfolio of 10-12 photographs that demonstrate your commitment to human rights and social justice issues
- Resume or CV
The statement of purpose should be 500 words or less and make clear the subject of your project and its importance in the scope of current human rights issues. Include historical, environmental, or cultural background to the project as appropriate. The following are a few of the questions that ought to be answered in the statement of purpose: Who or what will be photographed?, Why is this project important to you?, Why is this project important to the public? And what positive consequences might result from this project?
The project proposal should be 500 words or less and explain how and when the project will be completed. What background and preparation will you need to enable you to complete the project? Do you have a partnership organization or local collaborator? If yes, what will their role be? How will the financial award be used? Include a budget summary at the end of your project proposal.
Image requirements: JPG format; 72 dpi, 1024 pixels on the longest side, RGB mode, maximum quality.
One year from the announcement of the award recipient, the winner is required to submit a visual and written report to PROOF giving a full account of project planning, completion, and goals.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: proofmsj.com/photojournalists/photojournalist-grants/
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.