| Copyright | Copyright in the photographs produced on the prize assignment will remain with the winners, but all entrants agree to licence the use of photographs they produce in the course of the prize assignment to Oxfam and IdeasTap and assign to Oxfam |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to female photographers aged 18 to 25 years old who are UK residents |
| Finish | 9 September 2013 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedIn autumn 2013 Oxfam will commission three of Magnum Photos’ female photographers to document projects in Armenia, Chad and Sri Lanka. Three IdeasTap winners will join Oxfam project managers and the Magnum photographer (one winner per trip), helping Oxfam to tell the stories of women living in poverty worldwide.
Winners will follow the commission brief and produce a set of 100 images that highlight the difficulties faced by people living in poverty and the impact of Oxfam’s work, particularly showcasing the stories of women. Each commission will be accompanied by an on-site mentoring session by one of the commissioned Magnum photographers.
Three female photographers will win the opportunity to complete a commission for Oxfam’s spring fundraising campaign, including an expenses-paid trip to either Armenia, Chad or Sri Lanka, mentoring from a Magnum photographer and £1,000, funded by IdeasTap.
The winners will be informed before Friday 20 September 2013.
The judges will look for applicants who can tell a story through images, as well as originality, intimacy with the subject and good technical ability. Strong communication skills are a must.
Submit 10-20 photographs that tell a story. Enter digital photos via the website.
OFFICIAL 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.