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Cinematic Photo Contest

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Cinema, motion pictures, movies…. the art of the moving image, a visual medium that can tell stories, expose reality, or reveal fantasy.

A complex artistic expression, can the effect, mood or theme of cinematic expression be captured in stills? We think so. Artists understand the camera’s potential to record actions and tell stories. We invite you to submit photos that do so in cinematic style.  Show us what unique expressive elements of cinema can be translated through a still camera lens? Or, feel free to recreate your favorite scene or moment from your favorite film!

Prizes:

  • WINNER:
    • PRINT: A 30” x 40” HD C Print™ (Glossy or Matte) digital gallery plexi mount with wood brace of winning image (Value $505) Glossy or Matte (40” will be the long dimension by fall). With more than twice the resolution of standard C-Prints, Duggal’s HD C Prints™ raise the bar for photographic detail and sharpness.
    • GIFTCARD: A $150 credit to Duggal Visual Solutions, Inc. eligible for use on any Duggal products/services. Gift card must be redeemed in-store. If internationally located, the gift card will be honored via telephone. Credit must be used all in one order.
  • FIVE RUNNERS-UP:
    • PRINT: 16? x 20? HD C Print™ (Glossy or Matte). With more than twice the resolution of standard C-Prints, Duggal’s HD C Prints™ raise the bar for photographic detail and sharpness.
    • GIFTCARD: A $50 credit to Duggal Visual Solutions, Inc. eligible for use on any Duggal products/services. Gift card must be redeemed in-store. If internationally located, the gift card will be honored via telephone. Credit must be used all in one order.

Winners will be announced by December 31, 2015.

Image requirements: high resolution JPEG at 150 DPI or higher, file size 5mb or larger.

Judging criteria: creativity, photographic quality and effectiveness

Online submission of digital photographs via the website.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

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.

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