| Copyright | Copyright of all images remains with the artist. In the event that the image is selected as a finalist, entrant will be notified and given a license/use agreement with Sfumato Press LLC (dba Camera Obscura Journal) granting permission for publication and promotional use of the images before the final judging on the image occurs. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 1 April 2013 |
| Entry fee | Professional Entry - $15; Non-Professional Entry - $10. |
FinishedOpen theme.
Prizes:
- Professional
- Prize – $1,200 cash award and publication in the Camera Obscura Journal of Literature & Photography. Selected finalists also receive publication.
- In addition, finalists receive a professional marketing template from © The Polished Photograher – worth $100.
- Non-professional
- Prize – $300 cash award and publication. Finalists also receive publication.
- Finalists in both categories will be selected and assessed by the photography judges who will select the winner.
Camera Obscura accepts for competition any photography-based artwork. The artwork need not consist exclusively of photography. Photography-based mixed media artworks are encouraged for submission, in addition to straight photography.
Judging criteria:
- artistic merit (use of the elements and principles of art and design, as well as artistic impact)
- technical proficiency (including effective use of light)
Image requirements: JPG format; under 4 Mb in file size.
Online submission of digital photographs via the website. There is no limit in the number of photos you can submit.
Frequently asked questions — Art photography contests
Who can enter art photography contests?
Most art photography contests welcome emerging and mid-career artists worldwide. Some prioritize conceptual or fine art practices—review eligibility to confirm if your work aligns with the contest's curatorial focus.
Are art photography contests free to enter?
Few are free; most charge $20–$60 per submission, with series entries priced higher. Entry fees and discount tiers appear in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do art photography contests offer?
Prizes often emphasize career development: gallery representation, museum exhibition slots, artist residencies, publication in art journals, or cash awards ($1,000–$10,000). Recognition from respected institutions can significantly boost visibility.
How do I choose which art photography contest to enter?
Prioritize contests whose curatorial vision matches your conceptual practice. Review past winners for aesthetic alignment, verify presentation requirements (print specs, statements), and carefully assess rights clauses—some art contests request broad usage rights for submitted work.
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.