| Copyright | With the objective of publicizing the contest supporting the arts, the Co-Organizers reserve in perpetuity the non-exclusive right to publish, reproduce, make public, publicly transmit (via social media, the Internet, email newsletters, etc.), display, print, distribute, and adapt winning entries with the credit information on printed materials, websites, and official social networking service accounts without further compensation to or the additional prior consent of the winners. Such use will be always associated with the event, and entries will not be sold or otherwise used commercially without the permission of the entrant. At all times, Entrant retains the copyright to the work submitted and this right is not assigned, apportioned, or otherwise impinged by submission. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide, 18+ |
| Finish | 11 November 2023 |
| Entry fee | $15 (Student $8) |
Finished
Prizes:
Best In Show Winner
- The Best In Show winner will be selected from the 1st Place Winners in each category (five General 1st Place winners and five Student 1st Place winners).
- Additional Prize for Best In Show Winner – $5,000.
General Entrants
- First Place in Category – $1,000
- Second Place in Category – $500
Student Entrants
- First Place in Category – $350 (plus a custom Portfolio Review from TIME Photo Editors)
- Second Place in Category – $200
Categories:
- Portraits in the World.
- Portraits of Influence.
- Portraits of Family.
- Open Category.
- Series Category.
Winners Announced By Thursday, January 18
Online submission of digital images via the website.
Image requirements:
- JPEG format.
- File Size Limit: 5 MB.
- Suggested Pixel Dimensions: 1920px on Long Side, but if you don’t know, just submit your highest quality image!
- All images must have been created after September 1, 2020.
- Winners must be ready to confirm their eligibility and submit a full-resolution print-ready image on or around January 10, 2024.
Frequently asked questions — Portrait photography contests
Who can enter portrait photography contests?
Most portrait contests welcome photographers worldwide, from emerging talent to seasoned professionals. Many prioritize authentic human connection and diverse representation—review guidelines to confirm if your style aligns with editorial, commercial, or fine art portrait focuses.
Are portrait photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$40 per submission, with early-bird discounts or series bundles often reducing costs. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do portrait photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($300–$12,000) to feature spots in photography magazines, client referrals, mentorship sessions, or exhibition inclusion. Recognition from respected editorial or portrait-focused platforms can accelerate your visibility in commercial and artistic markets.
How do I choose which portrait contest to enter?
Align your strongest portraits with the contest's thematic focus—environmental, conceptual, cultural, or studio work. Review past winners for aesthetic cues, verify model release requirements, and carefully assess rights clauses—some contests request usage rights for submitted portraits.
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.