| Copyright | You grant CIWEM a non-exclusive licence to reproduce, publish and communicate your entry to the public by exhibiting your entry through all media throughout the world in relation to the Environmental Photographer of the Year. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 31 March 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThe Atkins CIWEM Environmental Photographer of the Year competition is an international showcase for the very best in environmental photography and film.
The competition’s overall theme is social and natural issues of the environment.
Prizes:
- tkins CIWEM Environmental Photographer of the Year of £5000
- Atkins CIWEM Young Environmental Photographer of the Year (Under 18) of £1000
- Atkins CIWEM Environmental Film of the Year of £1000
- Atkins Cityscape Prize of £1000
- Forestry Commission England Exhibition Award: one photographer will be invited to exhibit a solo show at one of England’s public forests
- 70-100 works will be displayed at the Royal Geographical Society in London in June 2014
Entrants will be informed of results by April 29, 2014
Judges: Justin Taberham, CIWEM Director of Policy; and David Tonkins, Chief Executive Officer, UK & Europe, Atkins.
You may enter up to 10 still photographs or films. Online submission of digital photographs via the website. Judging criteria: impact, composition, originality, creativity and technical ability.
Image requirements: JPEGs, saved at a high quality level, e.g. 10 in Adobe Photoshop, with a maximum file size of 0.5MB. If shortlisted, still photography entrants must be able to supply images as RAW files or original JPEGs
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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.