Top 10 Photography Contests for Travelers to Enter This Year

The National Geographic Travel Photo Contest is a prestigious competition that invites photographers from around the globe to submit their travel images. This contest celebrates the beauty of our world, encouraging entries that showcase landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. Winning images often gain significant exposure, making this contest highly sought after among travel photographers.

Apart from the recognition, winners receive great prizes, including cash and camera gear, which can further enhance their photography journey. Participating in this contest allows travelers not only to share their adventures but also to inspire others to explore the world. So, if you have stunning travel photos, this is the contest for you!

Make sure to check their website for submission guidelines and deadlines, as they can vary year to year. Remember, your photos should tell a story—this is your chance to capture the essence of your travels and showcase it to a wider audience.

The Sony World Photography Awards is another prominent contest that attracts photographers from all walks of life. It features various categories, including travel, allowing participants to showcase their best shots taken during their journeys. This contest not only highlights individual talent but also celebrates the art of photography on a global scale.

Winners receive not only cash prizes but also the opportunity to have their work exhibited in renowned galleries, which can be a game-changer for aspiring photographers. If you've captured breathtaking scenes during your travels, consider entering this contest to gain visibility and professional recognition.

Keep an eye on their submission dates and themes. Each year brings new opportunities to align your entries with their focus, whether it’s nature, urban landscapes, or cultural portraits.

Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) is known for celebrating the art of travel photography. This contest encourages photographers to submit images that reflect their journeys, offering various categories that cater to different styles and subjects. Whether you're into capturing vibrant cultures or stunning landscapes, there's a place for you here.

The competition is fierce, but the rewards make it worthwhile—winners receive cash prizes, gear, and the chance to have their work published. This is an excellent platform for photographers to gain recognition and connect with others who share their passion for travel and photography.

Make sure to explore past winners' galleries for inspiration and understand what the judges are looking for. Each entry should encapsulate not just a moment, but the spirit of adventure and discovery.

The International Photography Awards (IPA) is a globally recognized competition that covers a wide range of photography categories, including travel. This contest emphasizes creativity and innovation, encouraging photographers to push their boundaries and submit their most impactful work. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your talent on an international stage.

Winners receive awards and recognition that can significantly enhance their professional profiles. Many past winners have seen their careers take off after participating in this prestigious event, with increased visibility leading to exciting opportunities.

As you prepare your entries, remember to focus on originality and storytelling. The judges are looking for images that evoke emotion and provide a unique perspective on the world.

For those who excel in panoramic photography, the Epson Pano Awards is the ideal contest to enter. This competition specifically focuses on panoramic images, encouraging photographers to showcase their unique view of travel destinations through wide-angle perspectives. It's a creative way to capture landscapes, cityscapes, and cultural scenes.

Winning in this contest can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations within the photography community. If you have stunning panoramic shots from your travels, this contest could be the perfect platform to share them.

Be sure to review the submission criteria, as panoramic photography has its own set of challenges and standards. Your entries should not only be technically sound but also visually captivating.

The World Photography Organisation hosts various competitions throughout the year, catering to different aspects of photography, including travel. These contests are open to photographers of all levels, making it an inclusive platform. It's a great way to engage with the global photography community and gain valuable feedback.

Each competition has its own theme, which encourages participants to be creative and thematic in their submissions. Winners often receive exposure through exhibitions and publications, which can be a big boost for any photographer's career.

Check their calendar for upcoming competitions and themes. Entering regularly can help you refine your skills and expand your portfolio while connecting with fellow travel enthusiasts.

The Nature Conservancy Photo Contest is a fantastic way for travelers to combine their passion for photography with environmental advocacy. This contest encourages photographers to highlight the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation through their images. It's an opportunity to raise awareness about the planet while showcasing your travel experiences.

Winners receive prizes that can include cash, camera gear, and publication opportunities, all of which can help elevate your photography career. Your travel photos can play a vital role in demonstrating the beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it.

As you prepare your submission, think about how your images can tell a story about conservation. This contest is not just about winning; it's about making a difference through your art.

The Travel Photography Awards is a relatively new but rapidly growing competition that seeks to recognize and promote the best in travel photography. This contest is open to photographers of all levels and encourages entries that convey the essence of travel experiences. Whether it's a bustling market scene or a serene landscape, there's a category for every kind of travel shot.

The awards not only provide winners with prizes but also the opportunity for their work to be showcased in exhibitions and online platforms. This can be a significant stepping stone for photographers looking to gain recognition in the travel photography community.

As you prepare your entries, focus on what makes your travel experiences unique. Authenticity and personal storytelling can set your work apart and resonate with the judges.