REVEAL THE WORLD

THROUGH YOUR LENS!

FAQS

Tell your story. Submit your work. Make an impact.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

  • Not at all. The competition is open to everyone. There is a dedicated award for students and equal recognition across categories regardless of your professional status.

  • A series or story consists of 4 to 10 photographs that share a common theme or concept, and should be submitted under a single title. The images will be judged as a cohesive body of work, not individually. Make sure your strongest image is placed first.

  • Files must be:

    • JPG format

    • RGB or Adobe color space

    • Maximum 3MB per image.

    • Each file name should follow this format: LASTNAME_TITLE.jpg (no special characters or spaces).

  • Yes. You may enter the same image or story into more than one category if it fits. An additional entry fee applies for each extra category.

  • No. You may submit as many entries as you like, across as many categories as you choose.

    1. Choose a category

    2. Prepare your JPG images and captions

    3. Complete the online form and upload your files

    4. Pay the entry fee via credit card or PayPal You’ll receive a confirmation email once your submission is completed.

  • A series must consist of a group of images (minimum 4, maximum 10) that are thematically consistent and connected by a shared subject, concept, or visual narrative. Each image should contribute to the overall story or message of the series.

  • No. Once payment is processed, changes cannot be made. Please review your entry carefully before submitting.

  • Please visit the Categories page to explore all sections and individual categories. Select the one that best aligns with the theme, content, or purpose of your work. If your work fits more than one, you can enter multiple times.

  • The Nature section is dedicated to artistic, observational, and creative depictions of the natural world. The Nature category within Documentary/Photojournalism is intended for editorial or journalistic storytelling on nature-related issues.

  • The regular deadline is June 30, 2025 at 8:00 PM (Paris time).

    • Shortlist Announcement: September 5, 2025

    • Final Winners: September 12, 2025

  • All submissions are judged anonymously by a rotating panel of respected photography professionals. The jury evaluates images based on originality, impact, coherence (in the case of stories), execution, and relevance to the category.

  • To ensure impartiality, avoid external pressure, and protect the integrity of the judging process. The final list of jury members will be revealed after the winners are announced.

  • All awardees will receive:

    • Official announcement and digital showcase

    • Digital certificate

    • Winner or honorable mention badge

    • Inclusion in the Winners Gallery

    • Feature in press releases and social highlights

    Special Awards:

    • Photographer of the Year: €1,000 cash prize + feature spotlight

    • Best Student Work: €500 cash prize + spotlight

  • Yes. Previous exposure does not disqualify a photograph, as long as you still hold the rights.

  • Absolutely. You retain full copyright. By submitting, you grant us permission to use your images strictly for promotion, exhibition, and communication related to the International Focus Awards, always with proper credit.

  • Winning and selected entries may be showcased in curated digital galleries, printed publications, social campaigns, and future collaborative exhibitions.

  • Please write to us at info@internationalfocusaward.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

    • The entry fee varies depending on the number of categories and images submitted. Check our submission page for updated pricing details.

  • We currently accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and PayPal.

  • No, all fees are non-refundable once payment is completed.

  • Yes. All students are eligible for reduced submission fees, regardless of field of study.

  • Simply select “Student” during submission.

  • No, photographers of all ages are welcome. Minors must have parental consent.

  • Yes, all images must have been captured within the last 5 years.

  • Upload one cover image and up to nine internal spreads from your book or dummy. Include a short description and the publishing status in the caption field. 

  • The competition is open to all photographers worldwide, regardless of age, nationality, or level of experience. We welcome entries from professionals, non-professionals, and students.

ONE FOCUS,

INFINITY PERSPECTIVES!

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