| Copyright | The Copyright for each image entered will remain with its respective photographer. By entering the Competition and submitting your photograph(s), you hereby grant the Promoter, its sponsor and their hosting partner Photocrowd a non-exclusive, irrevocable license to use your photograph(s) for any purpose connected with the Competition, including (but not limited to), promoting the Competition within printed and online media, the inclusion within printed and digital versions of any subsequent book relating to the competition, the inclusion within printed and digital versions of the Competition calendar and other merchandise, display at exhibitions, publication in other magazines or print media which the Owners (or their official partners, supporters, or sponsors) may produce, use in press, promotional and marketing materials, social media networks and for the promotion of any future photographic competition in both print and online media. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 29 June 2021 |
| Entry fee | Free |
FinishedThe weather in its many forms can make for some of the most stunning photography. With a constantly changing subject, you may be in the right place at the right time to capture a dream shot or have put a lot of preparation and patience into ensuring the perfect photo. We are seeking those images that showcase the sometimes dramatic and always fascinating story and impact of weather.
Prizes:
- 1st Place – £500 cash
- 2nd place – £250 cash
- 3rd place – £100 cash
Categories:
- All photographers aged 13 and over can enter the main ‘Weather Photographer of the Year’ category.
- Photographers aged between 13 and 17 on the final day of submissions (29th June 2021) can enter the ‘Young Weather Photographer of the Year’ category.
- All photographers aged 13 and over can enter images taken with a phone or tablet into the ‘Weather Photographer of the Year (Mobile Phone category)’ category.
Prize winners will be announced on the 16 October 2021
Online submission of digital images via the website. Photographers can upload up to 5 images to each of the three categories.
Image requirements: RGB or sRGB colour profiles are recommended. A minimum of 2,500 pixels on the shortest side after any cropping. Photographers may make reasonable use of digital darkroom techniques which enhance quality but do not distort the photograph.
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.