What is a photo series?
A photo series includes two to seven images that convey a story around a particular theme.
I wonder if you accept color images?
Both Color and Black and white images are accepted.
Can I submit images created using artificial intelligence (AI) to the contest?
AI-assisted images are accepted only if they incorporate a real photograph as a fundamental part of the composition. This means entirely computer-generated works are not allowed, but if your piece is a montage where a significant portion is a true photograph and other elements are artificially rendered, it will be accepted. These mixed creations can only be submitted in the Photomanipulation category. If your entry progresses to the final stage of judging, we will request both the original photograph (RAW) and the AI-generated image to verify that the work is indeed a combination of photography and AI, and not solely AI-generated.
Why are AI works not fully eligible for the contest?
The contest aims to celebrate the artistic expression and creativity of photographers, focusing on the photographic medium. AI is considered a different medium from photography, and as such, works that rely solely on AI do not reflect the unique vision, skill, and process of the photographer.
Should all images be entered in the same category?
No, you can also enter your images in several categories without any restriction.
Can I enter an image that has already been published or entered in other contests?
Yes, both published and unpublished work is accepted.
Can I enter an image that won other competitions?
Images that have won prizes in other competitions or that have been submitted to other competitions currently underway are eligible.
Is there a limit to the number of entries that I can enter?
No, you may enter as many entries as you like.
Is there a time limit on when the photograph was taken?
No, there are no restrictions on the date of a photograph.
Can I add a signature or logo on my image?
No signature, stamp or any other identifying mark is allowed anywhere on the entry.
I’m having problems uploading data.
Please read the instructions on the entry form again. If you are unable to resolve the problem after reading the instructions, send an e-mail inquiry to Info@Minimalistphotographyawards.com.
What specs should the digital files have?
Digital images should be no larger than 3MB per image. Save as JPG compression High, 72 dpi, 1,600 pixels on the longest side.
Can I submit my images via e-mail?
No, if you need help contact us via email: Info@Minimalistphotographyawards.com.
Can I enter one image into multiple categories?
Yes, you may enter the same image into as many categories as you want. Additional fee for next category is 10€ for single image and 15€ for series.
Can I make changes to my entry after I have paid?
No, after payment has been made, entries cannot be edited.
How can I pay for the photographs that I submit?
You may pay for your entry after you submit your photographs through PayPal, credit cards, or Cryptocurrency. (Once a submission fee has been paid, there are no refunds provided.)
What is the MPA Pro Pass?
The MPA Pro Pass allows you to purchase entry credits at a better value. By paying €200, you receive €250 in MPA Credits (+25% bonus), which can be used across your submissions. Credits never expire, are applied automatically at checkout, and can be stacked with Early Bird discounts.
In addition, entries submitted using credits are processed more quickly, meaning they may be seen earlier by our editorial team for potential feature consideration.
Do Pro Pass entries have an advantage in being selected as “Featured”?
No. All featured selections are based solely on artistic merit and are curated independently by our editorial team. Purchasing a Pro Pass does not influence the selection outcome.
However, entries submitted earlier may have more opportunities to be seen and considered over time. We encourage all participants to submit their strongest work as early as possible to maximize exposure. Entries submitted close to the final deadline may have limited opportunity to be featured.
What are my submission fees used for?
Revenue from the submission fees goes to the cost of prizes, exhibitions, administration, and promotion.
How will my images be used?
You will be contacted each time we identify an image for usage – and briefed on what the usage will be. Your images are NEVER used for any purpose other than the promotion of the Minimalist Photography Awards.
Is the judging anonymous?
Yes, judging is anonymous. Judges are not aware of participants’ names or details.
Will I be compensated for the use of my images?
There is no monetary remuneration for the use of your image, however in the case that it is being used for something other than the promotion of the competition, you will be contacted and given the option to decline the use of your work.
If my print is selected to take part in the Best of Show Exhibition, what will happen to it once the show is done?
The exhibition will be archived at our Headquarters for safe storage and possible inclusion in future best of show exhibitions.
How do I know if you received my entry?
Once the fee is paid, your photo status will change to “Pending review.” It will be marked as “Approved” after review and verification by our editors. You will also receive an email confirming that your entry has been approved. If your photo status remains unchanged to “Approved” 72 hours after payment, please email us at Info@MinimalistPhotographyAwards.com.
I didn’t win an award. Please tell me the reason.
We’re unable to provide evaluations or comments on individual submissions.
How do I know if I’ve won an award?
While we notify award winners via email, sometimes notifications can be filtered. You can always check if you’ve won any awards by logging into your member profile and clicking on “Your entries.”
What prizes do the winners receive?
Winners will receive the title “Minimalist Photographer of the Year” along with cash prizes. All 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, as well as Honorable Mentions, will receive a Winner Certificate and a Winner Logo. These assets can be accessed and downloaded on the “Your entries” tab of your member profile.
Are Honorable Mention images published in the annual book, or only the names?
From the 2026 edition onward, one image from each Honorable Mention entry will be published in the annual book. For series submissions, the first image will be selected.
Are the selected works in the “best of show” exhibition considered for sale?
Selected works showcased in the exhibition are considered for sale upon artist acceptance.
When and how are the results announced?
Winners will be announced 5 weeks after the final submission deadline. We will contact the winners via email using the registered email addresses. Additionally, we plan to announce the winners and their entries on the Minimalist Photography Awards website (www.MinimalistPhotographyAwards.com).