| Copyright | All entrants grant an irrevocable, perpetual, worldwide non-exclusive license to Authorized Parties to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the Contest and promotion of the Contest |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open only to US residents who have reached the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence at time of entry, and who do NOT reside in Arizona, New Jersey, or Vermont. |
| Finish | 30 September 2012 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedTheme: "Ten"
In celebration of American Road magazine’s tenth anniversary year, photographs must incorporate the theme of “Ten” (10). For example: a picture taken on a scenic highway showing ten ducks crossing the road; or, a photo in a diner with a clock in the background showing 10:00.
Prizes:
- A Grand Prize winner will receive a prize package including US $250, and his/her winning photograph will be published in American Road magazine.
- A runner up may also be selected, in which case that individual will receive US $100, and his/her winning photograph will be published in American Road magazine.
- Judges reserve the right to award up to four ‘honorable mention’ prizes, in which case each honorable mention will have his/her photograph published in American Road magazine.
Winner(s) will be chosen on or around November 1, 2012, and will be notified by email.
Image requirements: JPG format; at least 2550 pixels x 3319 pixels; up to 10 Mb in file size. Minor post processing is allowed; no HDR, no panoramas.
Online submission of digital images via the website.
Judging criteria: Creativity (50%) and photographic quality (50%)—in accordance with the contest theme
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.