The 2025 Sports Photography Grants, hosted by the Doug Pensinger Photography Fund (DPPF), represent an exciting opportunity for emerging sports photographers worldwide. This free photo contest is specifically tailored for photographers looking to elevate their careers in sports photography, providing not only financial support but also crucial professional exposure and networking opportunities. The contest offers seven grants valued at $5,000 each, awarded directly to photographers who demonstrate talent and commitment within the competitive field of sports imagery. Additionally, grant winners receive an expenses-paid invitation to the exclusive 2026 DPPF Sports Photography Gathering, offering direct interactions with industry experts and leading photographers.
The 2025 Sports Photography Grants invite photographers to creatively express their vision exclusively through the theme of sports. Entrants are encouraged to submit their best 20 photographs. Applicants who wish to further enhance their professional development may also compete for a year-long mentorship opportunity with prominent industry professionals. The mentorship is open to up to three grant recipients and is awarded based on merit and an additional essay describing the value a mentorship would add to their photography careers.
Key dates to remember include the contest submission deadline of May 1, 2025. The winners of the $5,000 primary grants, as well as recipients of the additional Development Grants worth $2,500, will be notified privately before July 1, 2025, and publicly announced the same day. Participation in the contest is straightforward through the Picter submission platform, where applicants will provide their portfolio, professional biography, and resume at no cost—making it an attractive opportunity for photographers.
The 2025 Sports Photography Grants represent a compelling opportunity due to their strong combination of significant financial support, valuable professional networking, and mentorship possibilities. The emphasis on professional development and absence of entry fees make this contest especially appealing to emerging sports photographers aiming to strengthen their professional standing in the photography industry.
The 2025 Sports Photography Grants Prizes
Winning a 2025 Sports Photography Grant offers recognition and tangible resources, specifically aimed at career growth in sports photography. Each of the seven grant winners will benefit from:
- A $5,000 grant dedicated to career development.
- An expenses-paid trip to the prestigious 2026 DPPF Sports Photography Gathering, facilitating valuable networking with influential professionals.
Additionally, up to three primary grant winners will receive a year-long mentorship with established sports photography professionals, further enhancing their professional growth through direct guidance and advice.
Three other applicants not selected for primary grants may still secure Development Grants of $2,500, targeted to photographers overcoming significant challenges to advance their careers.
2025 Sports Photography Grants Dates and Entry Fees
Entering the 2025 Sports Photography Grants is simple and cost-free, making it accessible to photographers at the early stages of their careers.
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: March 15, 2025
- Submission Deadline: May 1, 2025, 11:59 PM (applicant’s local IP time zone)
- Winners Notified: Before July 1, 2025
- Public Announcement of Winners: July 1, 2025
Entry Fee: Free (no cost)
About the Jury
The jury for the 2025 Sports Photography Grants includes experienced photographers, editors, and distinguished professionals affiliated with the DPPF Advisory Board. Jurors are recognized for their expertise and authority within the sports photography industry, ensuring that submissions are evaluated fairly and professionally.
Why Enter the 2025 Sports Photography Grants?
The 2025 Sports Photography Grants present a meaningful opportunity for photographers serious about advancing their careers in sports photography. Beyond monetary rewards, the contest provides exposure, recognition, and essential connections within the photographic industry. Winners gain direct access to high-profile networking at the DPPF Gathering, where industry veterans provide personalized guidance and advice, a rare offering among photography contests. These aspects establish the Grants as one of the most respected opportunities among the best photography contests, especially for those committed specifically to sports photography.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the 2025 Sports Photography Grants has been generated automatically. If you are interested in participating in this contest, we suggest you review the complete rules provided by the contest.
Contest Rules Overview
Submissions must consist of 20 original sports photography images, with all images taken after January 1, 2021. At least 15 must be recent (taken after January 1, 2023). Photographers with more than three years of cumulative paid professional experience in sports photography are not eligible. Applicants must ensure their portfolio, resume, and professional biography clearly demonstrate their eligibility.
Copyright and Image Rights
Entrants retain copyright ownership of their submitted images. However, winners grant DPPF the right to use selected images, their name, and likeness for promotional activities without additional compensation.
—
