Best Photography Competitions In The World
Here Are Some Of The Top Photography Contests Worldwide:
- General Photography Competitions
- Genre-Specific Photography Competitions
- Street Photography And Alternative Photography Competitions
- Photography Competitions In A Nutshell
General Photography Competitions:
Sony World Photography Awards (SWPA):
Picture this: a vibrant tapestry of professional and amateur talent across a wide kaleidoscope of genres – portraits, architectural wonders, sweeping landscapes – all vying for the coveted $25,000 grand prize. It’s a visual feast that sets the stage for awe-inspiring imagery.
*Submissions are free
To the competition page:
SWPA
International Photography Awards (IPA):
Here’s a rendezvous point for the crème de la crème of photographers, where professionals, amateurs, and students converge to showcase their artistry. The glittering cityscape of New York awaits the chosen few, offering not just recognition but the spotlight of a prestigious exhibit.
*Paid submissions only 
To the competition page:
IPA
Genre-Specific Photography Competitions :
National Geographic Photo Contest:
Venture into the wilds of nature, where every click captures the untamed beauty of the world around us. From majestic wildlife to awe-inspiring landscapes, it’s a journey that echoes the spirit of exploration.
*NG does no submissions, participarion only by using the hashtag #YourShotPhotographer 
To the competition page:
Nat Geo Contest
World Press Photo Contest:
Dive into the heart of storytelling, where each frame narrates a compelling tale of human triumph, struggle, and resilience. It’s a window into the raw emotions and unfiltered realities of our world.
*Submissions are free
To the competition page:
World Press Photo
Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY):
Embark on a global odyssey, where every snapshot is a passport to new adventures and cultural revelations. From bustling cityscapes to remote vistas, it’s a celebration of wanderlust captured in pixels.
*Paid submissions , Young competition free 
To the competition page:
TPOTY
Smithsonian Photo Contest:
Explore the kaleidoscope of human experiences, where every click reveals the diverse tapestry of our planet. It’s a visual symphony that celebrates the richness and complexity of our world.
*Submissions are free 
To the competition page:
Smithsonian Contest
British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA):
Delve into the untamed beauty of British wildlife, where each frame paints a portrait of the enchanting creatures that call the UK home. It’s a celebration of the natural wonders that thrive in our own backyard.
*Paid submissions only
To the competition page:
BWPA
Street Photography And Alternative Photography Competitions:
Magnum Photography Awards:
Step into the realm of contemporary visionaries, where the avant-garde meets the mainstream in a dazzling display of artistic prowess. It’s a platform where innovation takes center stage, offering a glimpse into the future of photography.
*Submissions are free 
To the competition page:
Magnum Awards
LensCulture Photography Awards:
Navigate the eclectic landscape of visual storytelling, where each frame is a brushstroke in the canvas of human experience. From raw documentaries to intimate portraits, it’s a celebration of the myriad ways we view the world. (Holds several competitions a year on various topics. Annual street photography competition )
*One free submission, 5 or more paid 
To the competition page:
LensCulture Awards
iPhone Photography Awards (IPPAWARDS):
Witness the power of creativity unleashed, as smartphone cameras capture the essence of everyday life in stunning detail. It’s a testament to the democratization of photography, where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.
*Paid submissions only
To the competition page:
IPPAWARDS
Small World:
Nikon holds this annual celebration of micro photography, presenting the best in the field of scientific and microscopic photography . With two entry options –Photomicrography competition (Photography using a microscope) and a Video Competition (Small World in Motion), Small world is a uniqu e photo contest where you can see nature in all its glory.
*Submissions are free 
To the competition page:
NSW
Photography Competitions In A Nutshell
These competitions are just the tip of the iceberg, I did not focus here only on street photography competitions but mainly on the competitions that are offering a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant world of photography.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring amateur, there’s a stage waiting for your unique vision to shine. Grab your camera, unleash your creativity, and let your imagination run wild!
Remember, behind every winning shot lies a story waiting to be told, whether it’s the bustling energy of city streets or the quiet moments of reflection found in hidden alleyways. So, whether you’re capturing the majestic sweep of a landscape, the raw emotion of a steet moment, or the intricate details of wildlife, your lens is your voice. It’s how you speak to the world, sharing your perspective, your passion, and your unique vision.
And while these competitions offer glittering prizes and prestigious recognition, the true reward lies in the journey itself.
It’s the thrill of exploration, the joy of discovery, and the satisfaction of seeing the world through your own lens – even if that lens is amidst the vibrant chaos of street life.
So, as you embark on this photographic adventure, dare to push the boundaries of creativity, whether you’re capturing the candid moments of street life or the grandeur of urban landscapes. Embrace the unexpected, seize the moment, and let your imagination soar. Because in the end, it’s not just about winning accolades, but about capturing the essence of life itself.
And who knows? Your next click of the shutter could be the beginning of a whole new chapter in your photographic journey, where every street corner holds the promise of a captivating story.
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