| Copyright | The copyright of images submitted remains at all times with the photographer. GMC Publications, Black+White Photography and the sponsor will require the rights to use the submitted images in direct association with the promotion and reporting of the competition only. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 20 September 2015 |
| Entry fee | £10 for three images |
Finished
Categories:
- People (from portraits to street photography)
- Natural World (landscapes, seascapes and wildlife)
- Documentary (reportage, documentary, photojournalism)
- Black+White at its Best (all other styles – including architecture, still life, sport and experimental work)
- Emerging Talent (any style by photographers aged 25 or under)
Prizes:
- The overall winner will receive the new Leica M Monochrom plus a 50mm Leica lens and the title Black+White Photographer of the Year 2015.
- Winners of each of the categories – People / The Natural World / Documentary / B+W at its Best / Emerging Talent – will each win £200 in cash and a £100 voucher from theprintspace. Runners-up in each of the categories win a £100 voucher from theprintspace.
- the winning pictures will be exhibited at the Leica Studios and then at theprintspace in London.
Image requirements: Jpeg format with a compression quality of between 8 and 10 (between 75 and 85 when using Adobe Lightroom). The image should be sized between 1500 pixels and 2100 pixels on its longest side. Image manipulation on computer or in the darkroom is allowed. The judges will be looking for a sophisticated and gentle approach to image editing, so avoid overdoing any particular image adjustment unless it clearly adds to the interpretation of the photograph.
Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Frequently asked questions — Photography exhibition contests
Who can enter photography exhibition contests?
Most exhibition contests welcome photographers with cohesive bodies of work—emerging to mid-career artists. Some prioritize thematic series or conceptual depth; review curatorial guidelines to ensure your project aligns with the venue's vision.
Are exhibition contests free to enter?
Few are free; most charge $15–$50 per submission, with portfolio or series entries priced higher. Entry fees and early-bird discounts are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do exhibition contests offer?
Prizes emphasize physical or virtual presentation: gallery exhibition slots, group show inclusion, catalog features, press coverage, or artist talks. Cash awards are less common but may range $1,000–$5,000 for top honors.
How do I choose which exhibition contest to enter?
Match your series to the venue's curatorial focus and research past exhibitions for aesthetic alignment. Verify technical specs (print size, framing, digital format), review shipping or installation requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some exhibitions request display or promotional usage rights.
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.