| Copyright | You retain copyright and remain the owner of your images and may also continue to use them in any manner you choose. You agree that the images you submit may be used by CGAP in printed publications, on CGAP's websites (including www.cgap.org and microfinancegateway.org), in a slideshow and screensaver, may be uploaded on CGAP's social media channels, or in any other CGAP-produced media, and may be copied and displayed by CGAP in any country provided that you are afforded appropriate attribution as the photographer. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 14 December 2018 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedPrizes:
- US $2,000 gift certificate each for photography or video equipment and accessories. (No cash, check, or money transfer will be issued.)
- Categories: US $1,000 gift certificate for photography equipment and accessories
For its 13th annual contest, CGAP is looking for striking photographs and short videos that tell the story of how financial services empower poor people and communities in Africa. Show us how financial services expand opportunities for poor people in Africa and enable people to build sustainable livelihoods.
Themes:
- REACHING EXCLUDED PEOPLE
- BRIGHTER PROSPECTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
- IGITAL FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT
Up to 20 photographs may be submitted per person. Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Judging criteria: subject matter relevance, originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact, and artistic merit.
Image requirements: under 20 Mb in file size.
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.