| Copyright | Artists retain full copyright to the submitted entries. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 23 May 2021 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedPrizes:
- 1st prize: 2,000 euros
- 2nd prize: 1,000 euros
- 3rd prize: 500 euros
- Winning entries will be showcased in a physical exhibition at the Technische Sammlungen Dresden and a digital gallery and will also be used in UNU-FLORES publications.
Tying in with the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development 2021 as declared by the UN General Assembly, UNU-FLORES and the Technische Sammlungen Dresden invite professional and amateur photographers and videographers to submit their best shots in advocacy of the Resource Nexus and sustainability. Photographers and videographers of all levels are welcomed to submit photos and videos accompanied by their respective stories/descriptions (up to 400 words) that relate to the Resource Nexus and one or more of the following themes:
• Agriculture
• Forests
• Circular Economy
• Climate Change
• Biodiversity
Judging criteria:
• Relevance to themes (30%)
• Originality and creativity (30%)
• Inspirational power or potential social impact (40%)
Image requirements: JPG/MP4 format; at least 1500px wide.
Online submission of digital images via the website. Enter 1 to 4 images/video clips per submission.
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.