| Copyright | You grant permission to Pictures of the Year International and the Missouri School of Journalism to use your submitted photographs in exhibitions, in publications, and in promotions of the competition itself, and for educational, research, and historical record purposes concerning Pictures of the Year International. Pictures of the Year International (POY) recognizes and respects that copyrights are held by the photographer and/or news organization. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 14 January 2019 |
| Entry fee | $50 |
FinishedAwards:
- Awards:$1,000 cash prizes & Tiffany crystal trophies awarded to:
• Photographer of the Year
• Newspaper Photographer of the year
• World Understanding Award
• Community Awareness Award
• Environmental Vision Award - Tiffany crystal trophy awarded to:
• Multimedia Photographer of the Year
• Sports Photographer of the Year
• Newspaper Visual Editor of the Year
• Magazine/Media Photographer of the Year
• Documentary Project of the Year
• Best Photography Book
Winners will be posted after 1 March 2019.
The mission of Pictures of the Year is to recognize excellence in documentary photography and photojournalism, within still photography, motion photojournalism (videography) and visual editing in both print and online formats.
Photographers may enter a maximum of 15 submissions in any combination of categories. A picture story consists of 3 – 12 photos and counts as one entry. Online submission of digital photographs via the website.
Image requirements: JPG format; 3,000 to no more than 5,000 pixels on the longer side — width or height; 300 dpi, minimum.
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.