| Copyright | Entry constitutes permission for PhotoPhilanthropy to copy, publish and display all submitted materials in print or electronic form without compensation by PhotoPhilanthropy, for use in promoting PhotoPhilanthropy, the Activist Awards and the advancement of the goals and mission of PhotoPhilanthropy. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide, 18+ |
| Finish | 3 December 2014 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedCategories and Prizes:
- Professional Photographer – $15,000 Grand Prize: Any individual who earns the majority of their living from photography.
- Emerging Photographer – $5,000 Grand Prize: Any individual who does not earn the majority of their income from photography.
The winners will be announced in March 2015.
Each photographer may enter up to two essays, and although they can be completed in collaboration with the same nonprofit, the subject matter must be different. For all submissions, collaboration with a nonprofit organization will need verification. Each submitted story must have 7-10 images total.Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Image requirements: jpeg format (compression 8 or high-quality) with the image at minimum 3000 pixels in length. Embedded ICC profile is required, use Adobe RGB for color or Gamma 2.2 for black and white. No CMYK.
Judging criteria:
- Originality
- Innovative and compelling storytelling
- Relevance in portraying the issues addressed by the organization
- Visual impact
- Technical execution
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.