Open competition

Rewarding the best single images worldwide. Entry is free and you could win $5,000, top Sony Digital Imaging equipment, inclusion in the London exhibition and book - plus more!
  • Free to enter and open to anyone submitting single images taken in 2025
  • Enter up to three single images for free
  • Ten diverse categories to enter
  • Awards for category winners plus up to 15 shortlisted photographers per category
  • One overall winner receives the Open Photographer of the Year title
  • Please see 'Rules' below for full image eligibility criteria
  • Deadline is 6 January, 2026 at 13.00 GMT

Want to enter more than three images? Buy image bundles and submit as many photographs as you like. More information is available in your account.

PRIZES

Overall winner Category Winner Shortlist
Win $5,000 (USD) x
Receive Sony digital imaging equipment x x
Flights and accommodation to the awards ceremony in London x
Certificate** x x
Trophy x
Global press exposure x x x
Copy of the book x x
Inclusion in book x x x
Inclusion in exhibition* x x
Promoted on WPO's website x x x
Promoted to WPO's online community x x x

*Please note, your image may be displayed digitally (on screens) or printed

 

**Might be digital depending on position

Rules