| Copyright | Copyright and all other rights remain with the author. All entrants understand that The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation for Documentary Photography & Film may use images of the winning and shortlisted projects (especially) for the marketing and promotional purposes of Foundation activities |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide, 18+ years of age |
| Finish | 31 March 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThis grant was created to encourage the betterment of humanity through the presentation of editorially-based imagery representing humanistic themes including
human unrest, famine, disease, national and international politics, war, uprisings, injustice and triumph. The best submissions will cover cultural, artistic, historical, economic, scientific, or other subjects inherent to human activity and survival. All documentary images must be produced in actual occurrence and may NOT employ partial reenactment. The emphasis must always remain on fact, not fiction.
Award:
- $5,000 USD Grant for your proposed photography project.
Submit by email a 15-image Portfolio (in a single PDF formatted file) and other required documents. No signature, stamp or any other identifying mark is to be imbedded anywhere on your images, with the exception of metadata information.
Image requirements for the Round 2: JPEG format; each image up to 2 megabytes in file size.
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.