The Istanbul Photo Awards, organized annually by Anadolu Agency, is an international photography competition dedicated to celebrating excellence in news photography. Established in 2015, the competition has become a prominent platform for professional photographers to showcase their talent and share compelling visual stories with a global audience. The awards aim to highlight the significance of photojournalism in documenting the world’s events, shedding light on issues of social, cultural, and environmental importance. Photographers from around the world are invited to submit their works, captured during 2024, in a variety of categories, emphasizing the dynamic nature of modern photojournalism.

Now in its 11th year, the Istanbul Photo Awards continues to attract the world’s top professional photographers, offering them an opportunity to gain international recognition and accolades. The contest features ten diverse categories, including Single News, Story News, Single Sports, Story Sports, Single Nature and Environment, Story Nature and Environment, Single Daily Life, Story Daily Life, Single Portrait, and Story Portrait. By accommodating such a wide array of genres, the awards not only honor technical proficiency but also celebrate the creative and narrative elements of photojournalism. Each category is designed to inspire photographers to delve deep into the essence of storytelling, focusing on the impactful power of visuals.

The competition is also recognized for its inclusive and accessible format, as it remains free of charge for all participants, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede talent. Open exclusively to professional photographers, the Istanbul Photo Awards seeks to ensure that the highest standards of journalistic integrity and photographic skill are upheld. As part of its mission, the contest actively promotes press photography as a vital medium for shaping public discourse and understanding global events. By participating, photographers become part of a legacy that champions truth, creativity, and the universal language of imagery.

There is no entry fee.

Eligibility

Open to professional photographers worldwide, regardless of press affiliation, for photos taken between January 1 and December 31, 2024.

Prize

The contest will distribute a total of $58,000 in prize money. The "Photo of the Year" award, given to the top image in the Single News category, comes with a $6,000 prize. First-place winners in each category will receive $3,000, while second and third places will receive $1,500 and $1,000, respectively.