| Copyright | Copyright remains with the authors. Authors grant organizers the right to publish their submissions to promote the contest, provided that due attribution is given to the authors. This right, however, is not a mandatory condition of participation. Each author may notify the organizers in advance if their work should not be used for these purposes. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide, 18+ |
| Finish | 31 December 2025 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
Winners of the 2025 photo contest will be awarded:
– The latest filter models from HOYA Filters / Kenko Tokina,
– Personalized medals, diplomas, and honorary ribbons APE—the leading Russian photographers association and a representative of FIAP.
– Licenses for the renowned Topaz Photo AI editing software
– Photographer Press Cards
– Contest Diplomas
Online submission of digital images via the website.
- Participants may submit up to 2 works per day.
- Composite images and digital manipulation are allowed but should be tagged accordingly if not apparent. Upon request, participants must provide the original file, including the RAW format if available. Use of third-party or AI-generated elements is prohibited.
- Watermarks and frames are permitted. However, large watermarks may be viewed negatively by some jury members.
- Image size: at least 1200 pixels on the longer side, max 4MB. Format: jpeg/jpg or png.
To apply, send an email to [email protected] with the following:
- Your full name, city, and country in the subject line.
- Required: a link to any website showcasing your work, and your Instagram profile if you have one.
- Include links to 5–10 photos you wish to submit, or attach them. Links are preferred.
- If accepted, you will receive an invitation for free registration and detailed publishing instructions.
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.