| Copyright | Entrant is the owner of the copyright of each photograph submitted. By entering in the contest, entrant grants permission to display photos in the gallery, publish them in Illinois Times, and use in other promotional material as they see fit. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers from the US |
| Finish | 1 June 2018 |
| Entry fee | Adult $10 per entry; Youth $5 per entry. |
FinishedWe’re looking for your best shots taken anywhere in Illinois or on it’s waters. The winning photos will be featured in Illinois Times and displayed throughout July at the SAA Collective located at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.
Prizes:
- Adult 1st place winners receive $75 cash.
- Youth winners receive gift certificates to local businesses.
- All entries will be included in a display during the exhibition, reception and awards ceremony held on Tuesday, July 10, 5 – 7 PM, at SAA Collective gallery, located in the Hoogland, 420 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62701.
Classes:
- Adult
- Teen 13 – 17
- Youth 12 and under
Categories:
- People/Portrait
- Places
- Nature
- Altered Images
Winners Announced: July 5, 2018
A maximum of 10 entries may be submitted per artist. Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Image requirements: No watermarks, dates, signatures, or copyright images onto photos. JPG format; No smaller than 1920 pixels on the longest side, 72 ppi/dpi (standard web resolution).
Frequently asked questions — Portrait photography contests
Who can enter portrait photography contests?
Most portrait contests welcome photographers worldwide, from emerging talent to seasoned professionals. Many prioritize authentic human connection and diverse representation—review guidelines to confirm if your style aligns with editorial, commercial, or fine art portrait focuses.
Are portrait photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$40 per submission, with early-bird discounts or series bundles often reducing costs. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do portrait photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($300–$12,000) to feature spots in photography magazines, client referrals, mentorship sessions, or exhibition inclusion. Recognition from respected editorial or portrait-focused platforms can accelerate your visibility in commercial and artistic markets.
How do I choose which portrait contest to enter?
Align your strongest portraits with the contest's thematic focus—environmental, conceptual, cultural, or studio work. Review past winners for aesthetic cues, verify model release requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some contests request usage rights for submitted portraits.
Frequently asked questions — Nature photography contests
Who can enter nature photography contests?
Most nature contests welcome photographers worldwide, from hobbyists to professionals. Many prioritize ethical shooting practices and environmental storytelling—review guidelines to confirm if your work aligns with conservation-focused or artistic missions.
Are nature photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$40 per image, with early-bird discounts or bundle rates 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 nature photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$15,000) to publication in nature magazines, exhibition features, professional gear, or donations to conservation projects. Recognition from respected environmental organizations can amplify your impact and visibility.
How do I choose which nature contest to enter?
Align your work with the contest's environmental mission or aesthetic focus. Review past winners for style cues, verify technical specs (resolution, metadata), and confirm ethical guidelines—many nature contests prohibit baiting, staging, or disruptive wildlife practices.