| Copyright | Each entrant retains the copyright to his/her Photograph(s) and Description(s), and explicitly grants Sponsor an irrevocable, nonexclusive license for the duration of copyright to use each Photograph and Description for advertising, marketing, and promotional purposes |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open only to legal residents of the United States who are in 9th through 12th grades at the time of entry |
| Finish | 6 January 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Prizes:
- The Grand Prize is the winner’s choice of one of four National Geographic Student Expedition Photography Workshops (in Paris, London, Prague, or San Francisco), including roundtrip coach air transportation; and accommodations, meals and activities
- Second Place Prize is a $250 gift certificate to the National Geographic online store
- Third Place Prize is a $100 gift certificate to the National Geographic online store
Judging criteria:
- Photographic Quality (50%)
- Extent to which the Photograph conveys a sense of exploration or adventure (25%)
- The quality of the Description and its relationship to the Photograph and the theme of exploration and adventure (25%)
Image requirements: JPG format; 5 megabytes or smaller, at least 1,600 pixels on the longest dimension.
Online submission of digital photographs via the website. You may submit up to five Photographs.
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.