| Copyright | Entrants will retain copyright in the photographs that they submit to TPA. However by entering the competition process all entrants grant TPA the right to reproduce, without payment, for any purpose at any time in any media, with or without attribution for publicity and promotional purposes in any connection with the charity's work. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 29 February 2016 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedTheme: Paradise
As with all emotive subjects, Paradise will be interpreted in as many different ways, as you find people to give an explanation of their own understanding – in other words, there is no wrong answer to the question, ‘What or where is Paradise?’. To bring the subject back down to earth, for this competition, we would like to see images that you have captured, which, for you, encapsulate the idea of Paradise. These may be images that conjure up feelings of bliss, of being in heaven, of a wonderland or your very own utopia. These feelings can be found in the simple, everyday occurrences such as walking barefoot on the beach, a hot cup of coffee by a log fire, time to sit and read a book, a quiet spot under a tree; or, the splendour of a breath-taking scene, surfing the barrel waves in Bali, witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event or something else that has the power to take your breath away.
Prize:
- Lomography HP650 Diana+ APS Film Camera
Online submission of digital photographs via the website. You may enter up to 5 images.
Image requirements: JPG format; from 1 Mb to 10 Mb in file size.
Judging criteria: originality, creative interpretation and photographic technique and Relevance to the theme.
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.