The LensCulture Art Photography Awards 2026 invite photographers and visual artists from around the world to showcase inventive, exploratory, and conceptually driven work that pushes the boundaries of contemporary photographic practice. This international competition highlights photography as a versatile artistic medium, embracing both traditional image-making and cutting-edge experimental approaches. By celebrating creative innovation, the awards aim to spotlight photographers who challenge conventional aesthetics and expand the expressive potential of visual storytelling.
LensCulture positions the Art Photography Awards as a platform for artists working across styles such as conceptual photography, experimental photography, cameraless techniques, alternative processes, analog photography, mixed-media artwork, montage, narrative photography, abstract imagery, and more. The competition seeks submissions that demonstrate originality, strong artistic vision, and an ability to engage viewers through compelling visual ideas. By encouraging diverse approaches, the awards underscore the evolving nature of contemporary art photography and its growing influence in global visual culture.
Beyond recognizing exceptional work, the LensCulture Art Photography Awards 2026 serve as a gateway to international exposure, connecting emerging and established photographers with curators, editors, publishers, galleries, and audiences worldwide. The competition is designed not only to award outstanding achievements but also to elevate artistic voices, foster professional growth, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of photography in the art world today.
Entry fee: Free for one single image entry per person, US$35 for a 5+ single entry (5 images judged individually) and US$45 for a Series entry, with a 30% student discount available.
Eligibility
Open internationally to photographers and artists of any level (professional or amateur) from all countries, working in photographic or mixed practices; entrants must be the creator of the work and over 18 years of age.
Prize
Winners will be exhibited in New York during The Photography Show, featured online on the LensCulture website, receive global media exposure, and be awarded cash grants (Series: 1st US$3,500 / 2nd US$2,000 / 3rd US$1,000; Single-image: 1st US$2,000 / 2nd US$1,000 / 3rd US$500), as well as inclusion in the worldwide promotion and finalists’ highlighting.
