Tamron’s Travel Photo Contest
30 September 2013 Closed
Free
Open to all photographers 18 years or older residing in the USA using Tamron brand lenses only.
Contestants will retain the rights to their photographs. However, contestants grant Tamron USA, Inc. and its agency, unlimited rights, for 18 months, usage of the winning image, the winner's name, photo, and likeness in any advertising/promotion efforts by Tamron USA, Inc.
Theme: Travel Photography
Judge: Kevin Gilligan
Prizes:
- Choice of one of seven Tamron lenses:
- Tamron 18-270mm Di II VC PZD 15X all-in-one zoom lens (model B008, $449 value)
- Tamron 18-200mm Di III VC (model B011, $739 value)
- Tamron SP 17–50mm F/2.8 Di II VC (model B005, $649 value)
- Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD (model A007, $1299 value)
- Tamron SP 10-24mm Di II (model B001, $499 value)
- Tamron SP 70-300mm Di VC USD (model A005, $449 value)
- Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di VC USD 1:1 Macro (model F004, $749 value)
- If the winner is a Pentax user, he/she can select from the following lenses:
- 18–200mm (model A14)
- 17–50mm (model A16)
- 28–75mm (model A09)
- 10–24mm (model B001)
- 90mm (model A272)
The winning exhibit of 8-14 images will be chosen based on originality and overall quality as a collection
Image requirements: No manipulation beyond color correction, conversion to black & white, brightness and contrast. No HDR or panoramas accepted.
Exhibits must contain 8-14 images. Exhibits with less than 8 images will be disqualified. Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
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.
