The submission period for one of the most influential competitions in photojournalism and documentary photography — the World Press Photo Contest 2026 — closes on January 17, 2026, at 14:00.

Professional photographers from around the world are invited to participate, provided they work with visual stories rooted in reality — from daily news coverage to long‑term documentary projects. The contest spans all global regions, and judging takes into account the context of where each work was created: Africa; the Asia‑Pacific region and Oceania; Europe; North and Central America; South America; and Western, Central, and Southern Asia.

The competition accepts entries in three formats: single images, stories, and long‑term projects. Submissions may address news and the consequences of events, sports, nature, as well as social, political, and environmental issues — including potential solutions.

Winners receive not only monetary awards — up to €10,000 — but also the opportunity to present their work in the annual World Press Photo traveling exhibition, in the printed yearbook, and across the organization’s online platforms. In addition, photographers are invited to the Winners’ Program in Amsterdam and receive a physical award.

Participation in the contest is free of charge.

The World Press Photo Contest is organized by World Press Photo, an independent nonprofit organization. Detailed information about the entry requirements and submission process is available on the official contest website.

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