The PRIX {Virginia} Photography Prize for Women is an internationally recognised contemporary photography award dedicated to supporting and elevating women photographers working across documentary, conceptual, fine art, and experimental practices. Established to address gender imbalance in the visual arts, the biennial prize highlights powerful photographic storytelling and encourages artistic innovation while offering global visibility to emerging and established female photographers. Through an open call, the competition invites participants to present a cohesive photographic series that reflects a strong personal vision, originality, and a distinctive artistic voice within today’s evolving photographic landscape.
Designed as both a recognition platform and a professional opportunity, the prize promotes meaningful engagement with contemporary issues explored through photography, including identity, society, environment, memory, and culture. Submissions are evaluated by an international jury composed of photography experts, curators, editors, and art professionals who assess artistic quality, narrative strength, and conceptual depth. By focusing on bodies of work rather than single images, the award encourages photographers to develop long-term projects that demonstrate consistency, research, and creative maturity, positioning the prize as a significant milestone within the global photography awards circuit.
Beyond competition, the PRIX {Virginia} functions as a cultural initiative aimed at amplifying women’s perspectives in visual culture and strengthening their presence in galleries, exhibitions, and international art networks. The prize fosters professional recognition, media exposure, and career advancement opportunities, helping photographers expand their audience and connect with curators, collectors, and institutions worldwide. As a respected photography prize for women, it contributes to ongoing conversations about representation and equity in the arts while celebrating photographic excellence and contemporary visual storytelling on a global stage.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to women photographers of any nationality and age, submitting an original photographic series that has not been exhibited in France and is not created for commercial or editorial commission.
Prize
The winner receives a €10,000 cash award announced in November 2026, along with significant international recognition and exposure; in addition to the laureate, the jury may select up to ten additional photographers whose work is highlighted as a special jury selection, helping promote and mentor women photographers through visibility, exhibitions, and professional acknowledgement connected to the prize.
