OD Photo Prize 2026 - Call for Entries

• Open Doors Gallery (London)

• Deadline: August 12th, 2026

• Category: Contemporary Photography

• Prize: £2,000 + Exhibition in London + Interview

• Entry Fees: Yes

• REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

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Applications are now open for the sixth edition of the OD Photo Prize, Open Doors Gallery's flagship international award dedicated to identifying, celebrating, and supporting the most exciting emerging voices in contemporary photography. Open to artists working within the first ten years of their practice, the prize has quickly established itself as one of the most respected opportunities for photographers seeking visibility, recognition, and meaningful professional advancement.

Since its founding, Open Doors Gallery has built its reputation on discovering remarkable talent before it reaches the wider art world. Over the years, the gallery has showcased an impressive roster of artists whose work spans a broad range of photographic approaches, from traditional documentary storytelling and portraiture to experimental, conceptual, and mixed-media practices. Through exhibitions, art fairs, and curatorial projects across Europe and beyond, the gallery has helped launch the careers of numerous artists who have gone on to achieve international recognition.

The OD Photo Prize represents the culmination of this experience and expertise. By keeping the competition open-themed, the gallery aims to create a truly inclusive platform where photographers are free to present their strongest and most authentic work. This approach has made the prize a magnet for outstanding talent from around the world, attracting thousands of submissions and establishing an increasingly influential global community of artists.

What distinguishes the OD Photo Prize is its genuine commitment to artist development. The gallery's involvement extends far beyond selecting a winner. Open Doors Gallery actively seeks to build enduring relationships with participating artists, offering guidance, opportunities, and ongoing support. The success of past finalists and winners, many of whom have progressed to gallery representation, major exhibitions, and international exposure, demonstrates the real-world impact the prize can have on an artist's career.

The competition welcomes submissions from across the photographic spectrum. Whether your practice is rooted in documentary observation, fine art photography, portraiture, collage, image manipulation, installation, or hybrid media, we encourage work that demonstrates originality, confidence, and a compelling artistic vision. We are particularly interested in projects that challenge expectations, expand conversations, and contribute to the continuing evolution of the medium.

All shortlisted artists will be invited to participate in a prestigious group exhibition hosted by Open Doors Gallery in London. This exhibition will bring together some of the most exciting emerging photographic talent working today, providing finalists with significant exposure to collectors, curators, publishers, and photography enthusiasts. Selected works will be available for purchase both online and during the exhibition, creating additional opportunities for artists to connect with audiences and collectors while retaining full copyright ownership of their work.

In addition to the overall winner, finalists will be considered for a series of distinguished awards, including Judges' Picks, the InCadaqués Award, and the AJ Page People's Choice Award. Selected by a panel of highly respected industry professionals, these awards offer tangible opportunities ranging from solo exhibitions and festival presentations to increased visibility and professional recognition.

For emerging photographers seeking not only an award but also a platform for growth, connection, and long-term career development, the OD Photo Prize offers an exceptional opportunity to join a vibrant international community and share their work with the people shaping the future of contemporary photography.