ELIGIBILITY:

The World Press Photo contest is open to professional photographers working in the field of journalism and/or documentary photography. Every entrant needs to provide a document with a valid date that confirms their current professional status. Examples of documents include, but are not limited to:

press card, stating you are working as a photographer;
OR

at least 1 proof of publication (for example a tearsheet) from 2023 or 2024, with your name visible as credit, in either online or print format from a recognized media organization or publication;
OR

journalism union membership card;
OR

membership document from a recognized photographic association that shows the photographer is a professional member;
OR

a recent letter of reference (must be from 2023 or 2024) from a photo agency, photo editor, media organization or publication, stating you have worked for them as a photographer;
OR

if you are not able to provide proof that meets the above criteria, you may register with alternative (multiple) documents so that we can gain a better understanding of your professional status.

We do not consider proof of professional status:

CVs or cover letters
OR

diplomas
OR

samples of photography

The organization reserves the right to ask for additional information to help clarify the entrant’s professional status.

Team entries of two or more photographers are allowed. Proof of professional status must be provided for each team member.

The photographer(s) must be the author(s) of the photographs submitted in their name.

The photographer(s), agent, or representative entering on their behalf must be the copyright holder(s) or have been authorized by the copyright holder(s) to submit the photographs.

Entries must comply with the categories, as described here.

Entries must meet the technical requirements. 

Photographs can be submitted whether or not they have been published.

Photographs taken at restricted events are not accepted (i.e. events where only photographers commissioned by those organizing the event have access, for example photographers commissioned by governments, political parties or corporations).

All entries must have accurate captions and descriptions, written in English. If the captions have been translated, please also provide the original caption. Captions must contain all the information described in the guidance on captions.

Each entry must include relevant additional information, such as motivation, the type of project (assignment/personal project) and funding.

All entries must comply with the World Press Photo code of ethics. Read the code of ethics.

Entries can only be submitted via Picter, the official contest entry platform.

The deadline for creating an account on the contest entry platform Picter, completing registration and for submitting entries to the 2025 Contest is Friday, 10 January 2025, 13.00 Central European Time.

Members of the World Press Photo staff, Supervisory Board, International Advisory Committee and 2025 Contest jury are not permitted to enter the 2025 Contest. 

The 2025 World Press Photo Contest is open for entries until 10 January 2025, 13.00 CET. To enter the contest, follow these steps: