| Copyright | Artists retain full copyright to the submitted images. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 1 June 2021 |
| Entry fee | ONE FREE ENTRY for every photographer. 5 additional photos for $35. |
FinishedPrizes:
- Best Overall Award – 1st Place $500, 2nd Place $350, 3rd Place $250
- 1st Place Category Award – 1st Place $250 per category
Categories:
Online submission of digital images via the website.
Judging criteria:
- Adherence to category-specific rules
- Originality
- Strength of voice or point of view
- Intentionality
- Strength of moment and composition
- The photograph’s ability to transcend or elevate the genre
- The photograph’s ability to resonate with the viewer
Image requirements:
- Aspect Ratio: We accept any aspect ratio
- Horizontal Image : Width must be 2000px
- Vertical Image : Height must be 2000px
- Square Image: Height and width must be 2000px
- Cell/Mobile Phone Image: Minimum height or width must be 1000px
- Image Size: Maximum file size of each photo must be 2MB (2000KB)
- Image File Type: jpg
- Allowed editing/toning techniques include white balance, color, contrast, dodging and burning.
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.