| Copyright | If a photo is selected as the World Press Photo of the Year 2012, the photographer grants World Press Photo permission for its unlimited use for activities under the auspices of World Press Photo, without any remuneration being due. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open only to professional photographers and photojournalists |
| Finish | 11 January 2013 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedCategories:
- GENERAL NEWS Pictures (GN) or stories/portfolios (GNS) covering (major) news topics and their aftermaths, in such areas as politics, economics, conflict, social tension, relief and reconstruction work, and crime. All pictures must have been shot in 2012.
- SPOT NEWS Pictures (SN) or stories/portfolios (SNS) witnessing news moments or unfolding events. All pictures must have been shot in 2012.
- CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Single feature pictures (CI) or stories/portfolios (CIS) documenting issues affecting people’s lives and society today, relating to social, environmental, health, economic, or other such areas.
- DAILY LIFE Pictures (DL) or stories/portfolios (DLS) that document the extraordinary or unseen in the ordinary, or cast a new perspective on everyday life.
- PEOPLE
- Observed Portraits Pictures (PO) or stories/portfolios (POS) portraying people (groups and individuals), public figures, or celebrities, observed in their environment.
- Staged Portraits Staged portraits (PS) or stories/portfolios (PSS) of celebrities, public figures or people (groups and individuals).
- NATURE Pictures (NA) or stories/portfolios (NAS) of wildlife, other aspects of the natural world, or landscapes.
- SPORTS
- Sports Action Single pictures (SA) or portfolios/stories (SAS) capturing defining moments during major sporting events or top-level contests. All pictures must have been shot in 2012.
- Sports Feature Portfolios/stories (SFS) featuring the variety of ways sports are practiced worldwide, on an amateur or professional level, competitively, or for recreation.
A photographer’s professional status must be established by providing a document of verification. Single images in all categories must have been taken in 2012. Stories/portfolios entered in the categories General News, Spot News and Sports Action must have been taken in 2012. Stories/portfolios must contain no less than 2 and no more than 12 images.
Image requirements: JPG format; at least 3,000 pixels in length; saved in with a medium to high quality. Only retouching which conforms to currently accepted standards in the industry is allowed. Only single-frame images will be accepted.
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.