| Copyright | The copyright for all images created through this award remains with the photographer. However, the support of the Trust must be acknowledged in any subsequent exhibition, presentation, publication or other display or usage of images resulting from the award. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to British nationals, or those living and working in the UK. |
| Finish | 2 October 2017 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedAward:
- The award comprises a grant of £1,250 to complete a photography project, support from industry professionals, and a further £1,150-worth of premier printing at Metro Imaging.
Submit a proposal setting out a compelling vision for a photography project around ‘a human story we seldom see’.
Judges: Karen McQuaid, senior curator at the Photographers’ Gallery, Matthew Tucker, UK Picture Editor at BuzzFeed, Professor Steve Macleod, photographer and creative director at Metro Imaging, and photography critic Jennifer Thatcher (Art Monthly, ARTnews).
To apply:
- A proposal
- Your CV (no more than 2 sides of A4) including two professional referees.
- A PDF (no more than 15 MB) with eight examples of your photographic
work. You may add a short caption / description for each image.
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.