Top 10 International Photography Competitions

A curated list of the most prestigious global awards to elevate your career, gain exposure, and validate your portfolio.

Entering photography competitions is one of the most effective ways to gain international exposure, challenge your creative boundaries, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an emerging talent, winning—or even being shortlisted—in a major award can serve as a pivotal moment in your artistic career.

The following list represents ten of the most respected competitions globally, chosen for their reputation, jury quality, and the opportunities they provide to winners.

1. Sony World Photography Awards (visit site)

Widely considered one of the most significant events in the global photography calendar. The awards are free to enter and offer massive exposure across exhibitions and press.

  • Categories: Professional, Open, Student, and Youth.
  • Why enter: Unmatched global visibility and a gala exhibition at Somerset House, London.

2. World Press Photo Contest (visit site)

The premier competition for professional photojournalists and documentary photographers. It focuses on accurate, fair, and visually compelling insights into our world.

  • Categories: Singles, Stories, Long-Term Projects, and Open Format.
  • Why enter: It sets the standard for photojournalism and winning images tour globally.

3. International Photography Awards (IPA) (visit site)

A massive competition that feeds into the prestigious Lucie Awards. It caters to professionals, non-professionals, and students across a vast array of genres.

  • Categories: Everything from Advertising and Fine Art to Sports and Editorial.
  • Why enter: Winners compete for the "Photographer of the Year" title and a substantial cash prize.

4. Wildlife Photographer of the Year (visit site)

Developed and produced by the Natural History Museum in London, this is the gold standard for nature photography.

  • Categories: Animal Portraits, Behaviour, Underwater, Urban Wildlife, and more.
  • Why enter: The winners are showcased in a world-renowned exhibition that highlights biodiversity and conservation.

5. LensCulture Awards (visit site)

LensCulture runs several specific awards throughout the year (e.g., Portrait, Street, Art, Critics' Choice). They are known for discovering new talent.

  • Categories: Varies by specific award season.
  • Why enter: Excellent for feedback and getting your work in front of festival directors and curators.

6. Nikon Small World (visit site)

A unique competition dedicated to photomicrography (photography through a microscope). It blends art and science seamlessly.

  • Categories: Photomicrography (stills) and Small World in Motion (video).
  • Why enter: It is the leading forum for showcasing the beauty of the microscopic world.

7. Fine Art Photography Awards (FAPA) (visit site)

One of the largest award bodies dedicated specifically to the artistic side of photography, seeking photos with a unique vision.

  • Categories: Abstract, Architecture, Conceptual, Fine Art, Landscape, and more.
  • Why enter: Focuses heavily on aesthetic and conceptual merit rather than commercial viability.

8. Monochrome Awards (visit site)

Dedicated exclusively to black and white photography. This competition celebrates the timeless nature of monochrome imaging.

  • Categories: Abstract, Fashion, Nature, Photojournalism, Portrait, etc.
  • Why enter: A great niche for those who specialize in B&W, offering separate sections for pros and amateurs.

9. iPhone Photography Awards (IPPAWARDS) (visit site)

The longest-running competition for mobile photography. It proves you don't need a heavy DSLR to create world-class art.

  • Categories: Abstract, Landscape, People, Travel, and more.
  • Why enter: High viral potential; winning images are often picked up by major global news outlets.

10. ND Awards (Neutral Density) (visit site)

A modern competition aiming to promote photography and photographers. It creates a new bridge between photographers and art buyers.

  • Categories: Architecture, Fine Art, Editorial, Nature, People, Special.
  • Why enter: High production values and a respected jury panel make this a strong résumé builder.
Pro Tip for Entrants:
Always read the rules regarding image manipulation and copyright. Prestigious competitions like World Press Photo have strict rules against altering the content of a scene, while Fine Art competitions may encourage it.

Ready to submit? Choose the competition that best aligns with your genre and start curating your best work today.