Prix Pour la Photographie 2026 - Open Call

• BJC Museum

• Deadline: March 15th, 2026

• Category: Documentary Photography

• Prize: 30,000€ + Exhibition in France

• Entry Fees: Free

• REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

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Since its launch in 2008, the musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Photography Award has been dedicated to supporting the development of contemporary photography and encouraging innovative artistic practices. By providing both financial assistance and institutional recognition, the award offers photographers the opportunity to pursue new creative projects while gaining visibility within the international art community.

Every year, the museum selects two laureates whose proposals demonstrate a compelling and original artistic vision. Applicants are invited to submit a project proposal that reflects their individual creative direction and aesthetic research. The jury evaluates these proposals not only for their originality, but also for how they connect to the artist’s existing body of work and long-term artistic development.

In addition to awarding the project itself, the museum also supports the production of a selection of the resulting works. These final works may ultimately be integrated into the museum’s collection, ensuring that the artists’ contributions become part of an important cultural archive dedicated to global artistic expression.

The competition is open to photographers and artists working with photography who are not citizens of European countries, and there is no age restriction for applicants. Through this award, the museum seeks to celebrate the richness and diversity of photographic practices across the world, highlighting artists who are exploring new forms, concepts, and visual strategies.

Projects that demonstrate a distinct and experimental artistic approach are particularly encouraged. The jury places greater value on proposals that explore photography in innovative or unconventional ways, rather than projects that simply follow the conventions of traditional documentary or reportage photography. The prize is intentionally open-ended and does not impose any specific theme, allowing artists full freedom to pursue ideas that align with their own artistic investigations.

Although the application process does not require a recommendation letter, the award is designed for photographers who already have some experience and an established practice. It is not specifically intended for beginners who are just starting out in the field. For this reason, the selection committee will carefully consider the quality of the applicant’s portfolio, professional references, and previous experience when reviewing submissions.