The Gomma Black & White Awards 2026 focuses on one of photography’s most demanding territories: the black and white project. This is not a single-image competition, but a call for cohesive bodies of work that rely on sequencing, consistency, and editorial strength. The contest invites photographers to submit between 8 and 24 monochrome images that form a unified visual narrative, whether the project is completed or still in progress.
Positioned among the trending photography competitions featured on Deartline, this award places its emphasis on structure and intent rather than isolated impact. Three overall winners will be selected, receiving cash prizes along with publication in a dedicated photobook and international exposure. The competition is open to photographers worldwide and welcomes a broad range of subjects, provided the work is presented exclusively in black and white.
Gomma Black & White Awards 2026 is particularly relevant for photographers developing long-term series, editorial projects, or book-ready sequences. This contest fits naturally within the landscape of black and white awards for photography offering cash prizes and publication opportunities.
The Gomma Black & White Awards 2026 Prizes
The prize structure rewards the top three projects, combining monetary awards with visibility and printed publication.
- First Prize: €500 cash prize, worldwide exposure, publication in the dedicated book, and one complimentary copy of the book.
- Second Prize: €200 cash prize, worldwide exposure, publication in the dedicated book, and one complimentary copy of the book.
- Third Prize: €100 cash prize, worldwide exposure, publication in the dedicated book, and one complimentary copy of the book.
- Finalists photographers (approx 40): Publication in the dedicated book among the winners works.
Related Photo Contests
The Categories of the Gomma Black & White Awards 2026
This contest does not include formal categories. All submissions are evaluated within a single framework centered on black and white photography. Any genre is accepted as long as the images function as a coherent project. The absence of categories places the focus entirely on editing quality, narrative flow, and visual consistency.
Gomma Black & White Awards 2026 Dates and Entry Fees
The competition is structured around three submission deadlines, each with a corresponding entry fee. The dates and fees are as follows:
| Deadline | Date | Entry Fee (up to 24 images) |
|---|---|---|
| First deadline | 31 January 2025 | €15 |
| Second deadline | 28 February 2026 | €19 |
| Third deadline | 30 April 2026 | €29 |
An additional fee applies if more than 24 images are submitted.
How to Enter:
Participants must submit a project consisting of a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 24 black and white images. Files should be submitted in JPG format at 72 dpi, with a minimum of 1500 pixels on the longest side. Each entry includes a short project description, with the option to add an artist statement and a brief biography or résumé. Multiple entries are allowed if they represent different bodies of work.
Why Enter Gomma Black & White Awards 2026?
The contest is designed for photographers who work in series and value editorial coherence. By prioritizing projects over individual images, it aligns well with photographers developing portfolios, books, or long-form narratives. The inclusion of a dedicated photobook gives tangible form to the winning work, extending its life beyond the competition cycle.
For photographers comparing opportunities across Deartline, this award complements other best photo challenges to join, particularly those seeking black and white photography awards that combine financial recognition with publication and international visibility.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the Gomma Black & White Awards 2026 has been generated automatically. If you are interested in participating in this contest we suggest you review the complete rules provided by the contest.
Rules
Submissions must consist entirely of black and white photographs. AI-generated images are not permitted. A minimum number of images is required for each entry, and technical specifications regarding file format and size apply. Joint submissions are accepted.
Copyright and Image Usage
Photographers retain copyright to their images. Selected works may be used for exhibition, publication, and promotional purposes related to the awards, including inclusion in the official photobook. Participants are encouraged to review the full rights and usage terms before entering.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
