For aspiring photographers, participating in photography competitions can be an excellent way to gain exposure, receive feedback on their work, and even win prestigious awards. From international contests hosted by renowned organisations to niche competitions focusing on specific genres or themes, there are plenty of opportunities waiting to be explored!
1. LensCulture Photography Awards:
LensCulture hosts an annual photography competition that attracts thousands of entries from photographers around the world. With categories ranging from documentary to fine art, street photography to portrait, this competition offers aspiring photographers the chance to have their work seen by industry professionals and potential clients.
Link: https://www.lensculture.com/photo-competitions/street-photography-awards/2024
Deadline: JUNE 19, 2024
2. Sony World Photography Awards:
The Sony World Photography Awards is one of the most prestigious photography competitions globally, offering a platform for both amateur and professional photographers alike to showcase their talent. With categories covering a wide range of genres, including landscape, wildlife, and architecture, this competition provides photographers with the opportunity to gain international recognition and win valuable prizes.
Link: https://www.worldphoto.org/sony-world-photography-awards
Deadline: JANUARY 10, 2025
3. National Geographic Photo Contest:
The National Geographic Photo Contest celebrates the beauty and diversity of our planet through the lens of talented photographers. From stunning landscapes to captivating portraits, this competition encourages photographers to submit their best work for a chance to be featured in National Geographic magazine and win cash prizes.
Link: https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/competitions
Deadline: ON A REGULAR BASIS
4. Magnum Photography Member
Magnum Photo agency seeks to recognise and celebrate the best in contemporary photography. With categories such as documentary, street photography, and photojournalism, this competition offers aspiring photographers the chance to have their work reviewed by some of the industry’s most respected professionals.
Link: https://site.picter.com/magnum-submissions-2024
Deadline: JUNE 4, 2024
5. International Photography Awards (IPA):
The International Photography Awards (IPA) is an annual competition that honours photographers from around the world for their outstanding achievements in various categories, including fine art, architecture, and fashion. With a panel of esteemed judges and over $20,000 in cash prizes, this competition provides aspiring photographers with a unique opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.
Link: https://www.photoawards.com/awards/
Deadline: JULY 1, 2024
6. World Press Photo Contest:
The World Press Photo Contest is widely regarded as the most prestigious competition in the field of photojournalism. With categories covering news, sports, and contemporary issues, this competition recognizes the best visual storytelling from around the world. For aspiring photojournalists, winning a World Press Photo award can open doors to career opportunities and international recognition.
Link: https://www.worldpressphoto.org/contest/2024
Deadline: 2025
7. Smithsonian Photo Contest:
The Smithsonian Photo Contest invites photographers of all levels to submit their best work across a range of categories, including natural world, travel, and people. With a panel of expert judges and the chance to have your work exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution, this competition offers aspiring photographers a unique opportunity to showcase their talent to a global audience.
Link: https://photocontest.smithsonianmag.com/photocontest/latest/
Deadline: NOVEMBER, 2024
8. Monochrome Photography Awards:
The Monochrome Photography Awards celebrates the beauty and simplicity of black and white photography. With categories including abstract, landscape, and wildlife, this competition offers aspiring photographers the opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity in monochrome. Winners receive cash prizes and international recognition for their work.
Link: https://monoawards.com
Deadline: JULY 7, 2024
9. Urban Photo Awards:
The Urban Photo Awards celebrates the beauty and diversity of urban life through the lens of photographers around the world. With categories including street photography, architecture, and urban landscapes, this competition offers aspiring photographers the chance to explore the dynamic energy of cities and capture unique perspectives on urban living. Winning entries are exhibited in cities across Europe, providing valuable exposure and recognition for participating photographers.
Link: https://www.urbanphotoawards.com/en/
Deadline: JUNE 16, 2024
10. CEWE Photo Award:
The CEWE Photo Award is one of the largest and most prestigious photography competitions in the world. With categories ranging from landscapes and wildlife to travel and architecture, this competition offers photographers of all levels the chance to showcase their creativity and talent. Aspiring photographers can submit their best images captured with any camera, including smartphones, for a chance to win cash prizes and have their work featured in CEWE’s annual photo book. With millions of entries received each year, the CEWE Photo Award provides a global platform for photographers to share their passion for photography and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.
Link: https://contest.cewe.co.uk/cewephotoaward-2025/en_gb/
Deadline: MAY 31, 2025
Whether you’re interested in documentary photography, landscape photography, or mobile photography, there’s a competition out there for you. So why not take the plunge and submit your best work to one of these ten photo competitions? You never know where it might lead!
MELISSA MARTINSEN 