| Copyright | Entrants will retain copyright in their submitted entries and grant Congregational a worldwide royalty-free licence to edit, crop, re-size, publish and use each entry in any and all media for publicity and marketing purposes related to the promotion of this competition for a period of no more than 5 years. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to amateur photographers from the UK, 16+ |
| Finish | 15 October 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
The judges will be looking for the photograph that best encapsulates faith and the community. You might like to consider the following:
- A moment of faith – Try capturing one of those special moments that really demonstrates that faith exists, whether it is a planned event or a one off snapshot that catches the eye and imagination.
- Community spirit against the odds – A photograph which conveys how your community has united despite specific challenges could make a great shot.
- A community hero – Is there a certain individual in your area who has represented faith in the community? Why not capture a shot of them doing what they do best.
Prizes:
- The overall winner will receive up to £1,000 worth of audio visual and / or photographic equipment
- The two highly commended winners will each receive up to £850 worth of audio visual and / or photographic equipment.
- The 10 shortlisted finalists will be invited to attend an awards presentation in central London during Inter Faith Week, 2014 w/c 17 November 2014
Judging criteria: emotional connection, creativity and originality.
A maximum of 2 photographs may be submitted per entrant into the Competition via the Website or by post.
Frequently asked questions — Amateur photography contests
Who can enter amateur photography contests?
Most amateur contests welcome non-professional photographers worldwide—hobbyists, students, and emerging creators. Many explicitly exclude those who earn primary income from photography to ensure a level playing field. Always verify age requirements and amateur-status definitions on the official contest page.
Are amateur photography contests free to enter?
Many are free or low-cost: entry fees typically range from $0–$25 per submission, with student discounts or early-bird rates often available. Fee status and discount tiers are confirmed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do amateur photography contests offer?
Prizes emphasize growth and exposure: cash awards range $100–$2,500, while non-monetary rewards include mentorship feedback, online feature spots, workshop scholarships, or entry credits to advanced contests. Even without large cash prizes, these contests offer valuable confidence-building opportunities.
How do I choose which amateur contest to enter?
Prioritize contests that match your current skill level and genre interests. Look for opportunities offering constructive feedback or educational components, confirm that professional photographers are excluded (if that matters to you), and review rights clauses—even amateur contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.
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.