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“I’ll Be Your Mirror” Portrait Photography Exhibition

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Great portraiture such as that produced by Dorothea Lange, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, Matthew Brady, Peter Hujar and Diane Arbus comprise one of the main pillars of the Pantheon of photographic arts. The challenge of capturing the personality behind the person requires both technical know-how and an artist’s eye, combining technique, intuition and empathy. When done right, the unseen power of persona comes into focus and, as if by magic — personality seems to jump from the page. This month 1650 Gallery tips our hat to the power of people pictures, and welcomes your work in the blockbuster genre of photographic portraiture.

Award:

  • Approximately 50 works will be chosen from submitted photographs to be shown in the "Snow & Ice" exhibition at 1650 Gallery in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.
  • Additional works may also be selected for an online gallery exhibition page.

Juror: Andrew Overtoom

Image requirements: JPG format; 72 ppi, image width up to 1024 pixels on the longest side.

Online submission of digital images. All accepted entries must submit a high res jpegs to be included in the printed catalog. E-mail JPGs and an application form to [email protected] All accepted entries must submit a high res jpeg (300-360 dpi , minimum size 5×7") to be included in the printed SHOW CATALOG.

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Frequently asked questions — Portrait photography contests

Who can enter portrait photography contests?

Most portrait contests welcome photographers worldwide, from emerging talent to seasoned professionals. Many prioritize authentic human connection and diverse representation—review guidelines to confirm if your style aligns with editorial, commercial, or fine art portrait focuses.

Are portrait photography contests free to enter?

Some are free; many charge $10–$40 per submission, with early-bird discounts or series bundles often reducing costs. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do portrait photography contests offer?

Prizes range from cash awards ($300–$12,000) to feature spots in photography magazines, client referrals, mentorship sessions, or exhibition inclusion. Recognition from respected editorial or portrait-focused platforms can accelerate your visibility in commercial and artistic markets.

How do I choose which portrait contest to enter?

Align your strongest portraits with the contest's thematic focus—environmental, conceptual, cultural, or studio work. Review past winners for aesthetic cues, verify model release requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some contests request usage rights for submitted portraits.

Frequently asked questions — Photography exhibition contests

Who can enter photography exhibition contests?

Most exhibition contests welcome photographers with cohesive bodies of work—emerging to mid-career artists. Some prioritize thematic series or conceptual depth; review curatorial guidelines to ensure your project aligns with the venue's vision.

Are exhibition contests free to enter?

Few are free; most charge $15–$50 per submission, with portfolio or series entries priced higher. Entry fees and early-bird discounts are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.

What prizes do exhibition contests offer?

Prizes emphasize physical or virtual presentation: gallery exhibition slots, group show inclusion, catalog features, press coverage, or artist talks. Cash awards are less common but may range $1,000–$5,000 for top honors.

How do I choose which exhibition contest to enter?

Match your series to the venue's curatorial focus and research past exhibitions for aesthetic alignment. Verify technical specs (print size, framing, digital format), review shipping or installation requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some exhibitions request display or promotional usage rights.

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.

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