| Copyright | Copyright and all other rights remain with the author. 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 |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 31 March 2016 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedDocumentary photographers from around the world are invited to submit documentary photography projects along with an 15-image supporting portfolio on topics of human suffering and unrest, forgotten communities, exploited lands and people, on communities ravaged by war, poverty, famine, disease, and the exploitation of global resources.
Awards:
- $5,000 USD grant
- The “Top 12? shortlisted portfolios will be featured and displayed during Les Rencontres d’Arles (Arles, France)
Photographers are expected to be committed to the field of reportage and documentary photography. The selected project must be completed the calendar year following receipt of the grant. All proposed projects and submitted portfolios must be works of non-fiction and must be based on such pressing social issues as health, poverty, oppression, war, famine, religious/political persecution and similar topics. Proposals must be for new or continuing projects. Portfolios should be a representative sampling of your documentary work.
All entrants must submit the required supporting materials including the 15 image portfolio, project and budget proposal, resume (CV), and head shot.
Image requirements: all photos in one PDF file under 10 Mb in size. No signature, stamp or any other identifying mark.
Online submission by email.
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.