| Copyright | You will retain full copyright in each image you enter. Any winning or shortlisted image submitted by you may be used by IPC solely for marketing and promotional purposes connected with this competition or future versions of this competition |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 9 September 2013 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Whether its Arctic Monkeys first ever gig in the murky back room of a Sheffield pub of the moment Mick Jagger swaggers onstage for The Rolling Stones’ first every Glastonbury performance, the winners of the NME Photography Awards with Nikon know that great rock photography can plant an image in people’s minds that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Categories:
- Live: Photographs of bands performing.
- Portrait: A posed photograph.
- Documentary: An un-staged photograph that tells a story.
- Festivals: Pictures taken at live music events. Shots can be un-staged or posed.
- Under 18: All types of photographs are accepted. Proof of age may be requested.
- Professional: For working photographers. A themed portfolio of five images must be submitted.
Prizes:
- Winners in all amateur categories will win a Nikon 1 J3 camera with 10-30mm lens kit worth. £579.99 (RRP).
- Each of these winners will also be put forward for the Grand Prix to win an extra £500 of Nikon kit at RRP value.
- The winner of the Readers’ Choice award will win an extra £250 of Nikon kit at RRP value.
- Further to this each winner in the amateur categories will be invited to the NME offices to meet NME’s picture editor and and NME photographer for a professional consultation on their portfolio. Two of the winners will then be invited to shoot a gig for us.
- The winner in the professional photographer of the year category will win a Nikon D600 camera and 24-85mm lens worth £2475.98.
Winners will be contacted by email by 7th October 2013
You can upload a maximum of 5 photos. Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Image requirements: JPG format; 400kB, not exceeding 700 x 700 pixels and 72 dpi. Images submitted must have been taken in the last 12 months.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
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 — 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.