| Copyright | You retain copyright of images, and proper credit lines will be attributed to each entrant when used in any publicity of Silver Eye Center for Photography. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide who are 18+ years of age. |
| Finish | 21 October 2013 |
| Entry fee | $60 for non-Silver Eye members |
FinishedNow in its 14th year, this competition recognizes both rising talent and established photographers from all corners of the globe and from the state of Pennsylvania.
Awards:
- One International Award Winner receives a solo exhibition at Silver Eye opening late-January 2014; $3,000 cash prize; an online gallery on Silver Eye’s website (with link to artist website); and media outreach and promotion.
- One Keystone Award Winner, reserved for a Pennsylvania artist, receives a spotlight exhibition in late-January 2014; $1,000 cash prize; an online gallery on Silver Eye’s website (with link to artist website); and media outreach and promotion.
- Five Judges’ Commendation Winners will be named on Silver Eye’s website and press releases.
Judge: Linda Benedict-Jones
Award recipients will be selected by the juror on the basis of exceptional, distinctive talent as evidenced by the strength of their submitted portfolios. The juror is especially interested in seeing portfolios with a strong narrative thrust and highly individual, original points of view.
You may submit online up to ten digital images from a cohesive, exhibition-ready body of work created within the past three years. Or, if from an ongoing project, the portfolio must include images created within the past three years. If chosen as an award recipient, artists must provide work that is already printed, matted, if necessary, framed, and exhibition-ready.
Image requirements: no larger than 1,500 pixels wide, and saved as a .JPG size 8.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
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.