Photography gives children an opportunity to capture their unique perspectives of the world in which they live. It nurtures their appreciation for nature and improves their ability to focus. It also encourages creativity and helps them to express thoughts and feelings visually. One of the best ways for children to gain recognition for their creativity and talent is to participate in photography competitions. Here are some beginner-friendly photo contests for kids.
National Geographic Kids Photo Contest
Launching an auspicious career in photography could begin with the National Geographic Kids Photo Contest. This is a prestigious competition where kids can submit photos in multiple categories, including landscapes, animals, and people. The contest is open to kids aged 6-14 years. Photographers are evaluated on originality, technical excellence, composition, artistic merit, and overall impact. Winners receive incredible prizes like camera kits and trips to Washington D.C for an exclusive tour of the National Geographic headquarters.
Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year
The Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year contest offers an excellent platform for budding photographers passionate about wildlife. There are two categories for entrants: 10 years old and under, and 11-17 years old. The contest requires participants to submit original, untouched photos of wildlife, threatening neither the animals’ natural habitat nor their well-being. The grand prize winner receives a wildlife photography masterclass and their work is displayed at the Natural History Museum in London.
The International Kids’ Owl Art and Photo Contest
Organized annually by the International Festival of Owls, this contest invites children from all over the world to submit original owl-themed artwork and photographs. There are four age categories: Under 6 years old, 7-10 years old, 11-13 years old, and 14-17 years old. This friendly competition gives kids an opportunity to combine their love of nature and owls with their love for photography. Winners receive a prize package in addition to being featured in the festival’s calendar.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
With 29 categories, including photography, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards encourage creativity and innovation among young artists and writers. This contest is open to students in grades 7-12 from the United States and Canada, as well as American schools abroad. Over 300,000 entries are submitted annually, and award recipients may receive scholarships, publication opportunities, and a chance to have their artwork exhibited or included in a travelling exhibition.
Out of the Box International Photo Contest
This photo contest promotes intercultural exchange by inviting children aged 3 to 12 from around the world to participate. The competition accepts submissions on various themes, including love, friendship, family, and the environment. This contest offers a great opportunity for children to reflect on these themes and present their perspectives through their photographs. The winning entries are compiled in a photo book, and the winners receive a copy along with a certificate of merit and a surprise gift.
Prix de La Photographie Paris (PX3)
The Prix de La Photographie Paris, popularly known as PX3, holds a students’ category competition to celebrate and promote the work of young passionate photographers. This contest has a broad theme, ‘Freedom,’ allowing participants to submit photographs that resonate personally with this concept. The contest invites entries from students worldwide aged 11-18. Winning entries are displayed in a Paris gallery, published in the PX3 Annual Book, and shown on the PX3 website.
Shatto Milk Bottle Photography Contest
The Shatto Milk Bottle Photography Contest is a fun and creative contest for children under 13 years. This contest requires participants to photograph Shatto milk bottles creatively and artistically. Winners have their photographs printed on limited edition milk bottles, with their names recognized on each bottle. This contest not only promotes a child’s creativity but also offers a sense of accomplishment.
Smithsonian Photo Contest
The Smithsonian magazine holds an annual photo contest with a category for entrants under 18, the ‘Junior’ category. Photos can be submitted in a variety of categories, including travel, people, nature, and The American Experience (photos that capture aspects of American life). Each category winner receives cash prizes, and their images are showcased in the Smithsonian affiliates and online galleries.
Photography contests not only encourage children to explore their creativity, but they also offer them valuable learning experiences, constructive feedback, and a chance to share their works with a wider audience. It’s important that young photographers carefully review the entry guidelines for each contest to ensure they meet the criteria and submission instructions. And most importantly, they should remember to always have fun and continue to nurture their love for photography.
