Before social media followers became a critical metric for gauging a photographer’s work, individuals used photography contests to estimate one’s aptitude. Unlike the clout culture, where likes equate to ‘how good’ someone is (most brands hire ambassadors based on this benchmark), competitions became a legitimate tool to unveil rising stars. However, while competitions have increased tenfold—especially free photography contests—in recent years, their legitimacy still needs to be investigated. But should this dissuade you from participating, especially if you have a chance at free photography contests? We don’t think so.
Competitions Remain Pertinent Even Today
Competitions, especially free photography contests, will feature an experienced jury. Social media has made individuals ‘experts’ at critiquing someone’s work, but it is not the same as Alex Webb, Raghu Rai, or Nan Goldin giving time to see your work. Although the number of minutes they may provide you is minuscule, considering the decades they put into honing the craft proves it is enough.
But that’s not all. In addition to reviews, you gain valuable experience. A photography contest has multiple layers in the selection process. The first round-round excludes work that may not be up to the mark or does not follow the protocol of the contest. The second would require to collate a list of the top 50 candidates. Following this, there could also be a round of discussion to choose the top three, followed by the rankings in a given category. It may sound easy, but it is plenty of labor. Thus, the selected winners would have earned the standing if they were outstanding.
Free Photography Contests Are Significant For us
There are varied reasons for this. First and foremost, free photography contests could be more transparent. If a contest accepts $10, $20, or $30 for one photograph, it should clearly state how the finances will be used, for instance, allocating the sum for the judge and the organizing team. For example, a hefty entry fee sometimes proceeds to the grand prize, as the organizers need sponsors. However, if $10 dollar is collected by, let’s say, 500 participants, the total sum will be $2,500. It could be split between the grand prize winner and those in the top 5, but the chances of everything being used for the victors still need to be higher. Sometimes, a fee structure is even more elusive when most competitions today can get sponsors on board. Then where are the funds going?
Secondly, photographers from developing economies would find competing on an international platform impossible. In India, $10 or $20 is about 800 to 1500 rupees, a luxury for many. The exact amount is about 1300 to 2500 Bangladesh taka and 2500 to 5000 Pakistani rupees. Do you see the chasm between the economies? So, how does one—who may likely come from a middle-class family and earns less than $350 a month—compete with others despite having the talent?
Lastly, free photography contests can promote diverse narratives, including voices from POC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. Free contests also do not gatekeep, as one does not necessarily have to be like those individuals from higher echelons or crème de la crème of society. An entry fee is often used to restrict individuals from participating, as many organizations feel it is arduous to examine thousands of photographs. Instead, permit eligible photographers to send at least one free image (or three in a photo series) to keep the gatekeeping at a minimum. If it is not possible, there should be a way to waive the fee if the person applying has aptitude but not the means. Such exceptions are rarely seen, as many organizers take eons to respond to queries and requests.
Photography is a form of expression and a critical instrument for supporting oneself financially (more so for those who haven’t been able to complete their education). Since contests can help one rise above the usual standard set by photography ‘influencers,’ it’s vital that they become accessible to all. If organizers don’t heed this soon, sub-par images might reign the world.
We will soon collate a list of essential and morally good photography competitions for you. Stay tuned!