Photography Contest

Annual Photography Awards 2026

Annual Photography Awards 2026

Deadline |

12/13/26

Theme |

Several Categories

Territory |

Worldwide

Eligibility |

Open to all

Entry Fees |

$30 for single photo / $40 for series

Prizes |

Cash Prize
The seventh edition of this international photography competition features five main categories, each divided into 25 subcategories, providing participants with a broad platform to showcase their talent and artistic vision on the global stage.

We encourage bold and innovative approaches that challenge conventional artistic standards. Regardless of the chosen theme, participants can submit their work in up to five categories. There are no restrictions on interpretation, creativity, or aesthetics - every form of artistic expression is welcome. Our competition celebrates the diversity of photographic styles and techniques, promoting emerging talent and contributing to the recognition of photography as a true fine art.

This is a unique opportunity to gain international recognition, elevate your career, and present your work to a community of art enthusiasts and professionals. The Annual Photography Awards is not only a prestigious competition but also a chance to win attractive cash prizes, exclusive trophies, and esteemed accolades. Winners will receive official certificates and digital awards, solidifying their exceptional achievements in the field of photography.

If you are passionate about photography and eager to showcase your skills to a worldwide audience, don’t wait - submit your work today!

Prizes:
The Annual Photography Awards offer generous cash prizes, trophies and acclaimed awards for participating winners. Certificates and awards are available as digital downloads endorsed by the APA.

Grand Prize
- $2.500 in cash for overall Winner
- Annual Photographer of the Year 2026 title

Category Winners
- $500 for each of 5 categories Winners
- Category Annual Photographer of the Year 2026 title

Featured Photo Contest

AAP Magazine #59 / SHAPES

$1,000 cash prizes | Winning image(s) published in AAP Magazine #59 | Extensive press coverage and global recognition

Best Photography Contests in 2025

Each year, there are hundreds of photography competitions all over the world, so we've decided to select for you the best of the best! Our selection of the best photo contests in 2025 is thoroughly curated to help you, whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur, to help find your next creative breakthrough. These all-star competitions offer the greatest opportunities for international exposure and/or incredible financial benefits. Some of them are closing soon, so get your photo submissions in!

ENDS 06/23/26
Be Featured in our July 2026 Online Juried Solo Exhibition!
ENDS 06/28/26
The international photography contest URBAN Photo Awards is here: registrations will open on March 28th and this 16th edition will be the largest and most important ever.
ENDS 06/30/26
If you're a passionate amateur or professional photographer, we invite you to share your photographic project with us.
ENDS 06/30/26
The IPA recognizes photography’s leading talents who are creating, shaping and defining the world of photography today.
ENDS 06/30/26
Selected photobooks will be featured in Der Greif’s Articles section, including a dedicated editorial feature highlighting the project, its context, and the maker(s).
ENDS 07/01/26
Critical Mass sparks career-changing opportunities. Ready to get your work noticed? This is the place to do it.
ENDS 07/02/26
The Emerging Photographer Grant aims to provide a $10,000 grant to visual storytellers at the beginning of their careers in order to develop impactful visual narratives.
ENDS 07/07/26
Our 59th printed issue of AAP Magazine will feature the best projects showcasing the theme "Shapes".
ENDS 07/08/26
BUDAPEST INTERNATIONAL FOTO AWARDS is an international platform for photographers from all levels and genres to share their best images with the creative community in Hungary and Eastern Europe.
ENDS 07/15/26
Wherever you are in the world, we invite you to send us your most beautiful Colors or Black & White street photos.
ENDS 07/31/26
A competition for world class commercial photographers, judged by a prestigious panel of experts from renowned advertising agencies, magazines & brands.
ENDS 08/31/26
To help photographers improve their chances, we have launched a portfolio and contest submission review service.
ENDS 09/01/26
Financial support, publication in The Guardian, loan of Canon camera equipment, a year-long mentorship, an assignment, potential conflict training, work seen by a panel of industry experts
ENDS 09/05/26
The Paris Photo–Aperture Foundation PhotoBook Awards celebrate the photobook's contribution to the evolving narrative of photography
ENDS 09/11/26
$12,000 in total grants awarded to three artists
ENDS 09/13/26
Eurazeo is launching the Eurazeo Photo Prize grant, with funding of €20,000
ENDS 09/24/26
A total of $8,000 in grants will be awarded to three outstanding artists
ENDS 10/11/26
Art is born out of passion. Fine Art photography is a perfect instrument, which allows a person to communicate with the world and share their vision. It results from the author's deep sensitivity, a need to express feelings through image.
ENDS 11/26/26
Provides a platform for photography students worldwide - first prize is top Sony digital imaging equipment plus benefit from global exposure
ENDS 01/05/27
Rewarding the best single images! Enter for free and you could win $5,000, top Sony digital imaging equipment plus more!
ENDS 01/05/27
Dedicated to young photographers under 19 years-old - first prize is top Sony digital imaging equipment plus benefit from global exposure
ENDS 01/12/27
Rewarding the best photo series worldwide! Enter for free and you could win $25,000, a range of Sony digital imaging equipment plus more!