The LensCulture Critics’ Choice photography competition is now open for entries for 2026. LensCulture Critics’ Choice Awards put the spotlight on the year’s most talented photographers — maximizing visibility and opportunities for those ready to step onto the global stage and enter international markets. The top ten photographers will be exhibited during Photo London 2027, the premiere international photo fair that brings together hundreds of galleries, publishers and collectors, as well as an ambitious program of exhibitions, conversations, artist book signings and curated fair events.

Read more about LensCulture Critics’ Choice 2026 Competition on Contest Watchers.

Creative Quarterly (CQ) magazine has opened its 84th international juried competition, inviting participation by professionals, as well as students. CQ seeks for the best art, advertising, design, illustration and photography done in the past six months. Winners’ work will be featured in Creative Quarterly’s online gallery and will become a part of their year-end published Annual. All winners will be featured in our 2026 Creative Quarterly Annual, a softbound book which will also list all runners-up.

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Applied Arts Media is calling for entries to their 2026 Student Awards competition, open to students from all parts of the world. Current secondary, post-secondary, or graduate students studying graphic design, creative advertising, photography, illustration, digital, motion or gaming programs are eligible to enter the competition. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to launch your career, the Applied Arts Awards give you an advantage in this competitive market. Showcase your work, gain recognition, and let your creativity be celebrated by the industry’s leading professionals.

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The Global Ability Photography Challenge (GAPC) 2026 is a global photography competition for persons with disabilities. It is hosted by Youth4Jobs and NotJustArt, in partnership with Adani GreenTalks. Participants can submit up to 3 images in any style of photography. The competition is open to both amateur and professional photographers worldwide, with free entry. Entries will be judged on originality, storytelling, and visual impact. The top 20 selected photographs will be featured in a curated exhibition. Selected works may also be featured across media and global campaigns.

Read more about Global Ability Photography Challenge (GAPC) 2026 on Contest Watchers.

Nature photographers from all around the world are invited to participate in the World Nature Photography Awards (WNPA) 2027 competition. The mission of the World Nature Photography Awards is to celebrate the world’s best nature photographers, whilst showcasing nature’s beauty to a wider audience, to drive us all to secure a better future for our planet. Winning work is seen by millions of people around the globe. The jury awards gold, silver and bronze titles in 14 categories and one photographer takes home the overall title of World Nature Photographer 2027 and prize money of $1,000.

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Epson has launched the 17th International Pano Awards. Entry is now open to photographers worldwide for panoramic photography created in 2026. The competition is dedicated to the craft and art of panoramic photography, and is the world’s largest competition devoted to the genre. The prize pool this year is again well in excess of US$50,000, including $15,000 in cash and for the Open winner – a package exceeding $11,000!

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The Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) 2026 recognizes excellence in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, product design, and architectural photography. Open to professionals and students from around the world, the award celebrates innovative projects shaping the built environment. Winners receive international recognition through publication, media exposure, and inclusion in the official AMP winners’ showcase. Additional benefits include the MasterPrize trophy, winner certification, use of the winner seal, and publication in the Architecture of the Year book.

Read more about Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) 2026 on Contest Watchers.