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“This is Gender” Photography Competition

"This is Gender" Photography CompetitionFinishedPrizes

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  • £500 cash prize for first place
  • cash prizes available for secondary category awards.

We encourage photographers to contribute to expanding the imagery associated with the concept of gender by exploring, for example:

  • How the landscape of work – professional, domestic, care or otherwise – is gendered
  • How gender intersects with health and wellbeing
  • How politics and commercial industries exploit gender roles and how they are challenged
  • How gender intersects with other aspects of identities and vulnerabilities

Each contestant may submit no more than two images per submission. Online submission of digital images via the website.

Judging criteria

  • Visual merit and creativity:
    • Strong visual impact
    • Thoughtful, considered composition and framing
    • Use of colour (or intentional lack of colour) and creativity
  • Storytelling and perspective:
    • Clear link to gender and/or health
    • Strong story behind the image
    • Unique perspective on the subject

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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.

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