The CVCEPHOTO 2026 International Mountain Activity Photo Contest is an established global photography competition dedicated to mountain environments and non-motorized outdoor sports. Now in its 12th edition, the contest is organized by Club Vasco de Camping Elkartea, a historic mountaineering club based in Donostia–San Sebastián, Spain. CVCEPHOTO aims to celebrate mountain culture through photography, highlighting the relationship between people, sport, and high-altitude landscapes while promoting artistic excellence and respect for nature within the international photography community.
The contest focuses on a single category, “Mountain Activity,” which includes any non-motorized sport practiced in mountainous terrain. Eligible subjects range from alpinism, rock climbing, ski touring, and trekking to speleology and paragliding, with an emphasis on authenticity, sporting value, and visual impact. Participants may submit up to three original digital photographs, and all images must be minimally edited, preserving the integrity of the original scene. By prioritizing originality, technical quality, and ethical standards, CVCEPHOTO positions itself as a reference point for serious mountain and adventure photography.
Beyond competition, CVCEPHOTO serves as a platform for international visibility and cultural exchange. Shortlisted and awarded photographs are featured in exhibitions, official online releases, and partner channels connected to mountain sports and adventure culture, including film festivals and media organizations. Through these initiatives, the contest not only rewards outstanding photographers but also contributes to the dissemination of mountain values, outdoor sports heritage, and contemporary visual narratives linked to life in the mountains.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to participants of all nationalities and levels (amateur or professional), with each entrant allowed up to three original photographs of non-motorized mountain activities.
Prize
Prizes for the 2026 edition include a first prize of €1,500 and an exclusive trophy designed by Iñigo Arístegui, a BBK Mendi Film Bilbao-Bizkaia Poster Prize of €800 with an official poster, an EITB Prize of €800, and a Special Jury Prize of €500, offering both cash awards and recognition in the international mountain photography community.
