The World Photography Organisation is accepting entries for the 19th edition of the world’s most diverse photography competition. Specifically, the awards are free to enter and open to photographers of all skill levels—from established professionals to enthusiastic amateurs. Consequently, winning images will be showcased at Somerset House in London and seen by industry leaders across the globe.
Program Overview
This is not just a contest; it is a global career launchpad. Therefore, it is split into four competitions: Professional (for a body of work), Open (for single images), Student (for academic institutions), and Youth (for under-19s). By joining, you place your work in front of a jury of leading museum curators, publishers, and festival directors.
Key Benefits
The awards offer massive visibility and tangible rewards. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Cash Prizes: The Photographer of the Year (Professional) wins $25,000, and the Open Photographer of the Year wins $5,000.
- Equipment: Winners receive the latest Sony digital imaging equipment.
- Exhibition: Winning and shortlisted works are exhibited at Somerset House, London, and travel globally.
- The Book: Winners are published in the annual Sony World Photography Awards book.
- Exposure: Extensive international press coverage and promotion on the WPO website.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant must adhere to the specific rules of their chosen competition track. Crucially, entry is completely free for everyone.
- Professional Competition: Requires a series of 5 to 10 images. Open to professionals (18+).
- Open Competition: Requires a single image. Open to anyone (18+).
- Youth Competition: Open to photographers aged 19 and under.
- Image Date: For the Professional competition, published work must have been commissioned or published in 2025; unpublished work can be taken anytime. For Open, images must be taken in 2025.
Application Process
- Deadlines:
- Open & Youth: January 6, 2026 (13:00 GMT).
- Professional: January 13, 2026 (13:00 GMT).
- Submission: You must upload your images via the World Photography Organisation website.
- Requirements: High-resolution digital files (JPEG) and accurate captions.
