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The Umbra International Photography Awards 2025 are now open, inviting image-makers from every corner of the globe to compete across nine distinct categories—from People and Architecture to Fine Art and Black & White. This online contest is among the more photography challenges online that deliver real prestige, offering entrants a unique chance to stand out on an international stage. Photographers may submit as many images as they like, each rigorously evaluated by a panel of seasoned industry professionals committed to celebrating innovative visual storytelling.
At stake is the coveted Grand Gold Statue, awarded to the single entrant judged Grand Photographer of the Year, who also receives an exclusive Gold Medal, a Winner Seal and a framed Certificate. In addition, three Gold Medals go to the top performers in separate categories, while 27 Category Winners (first, second and third places) each earn a Winner Seal and Certificate. Thirty Honorable Mentions receive Certificates for standout work. Beyond personal accolades, winners and finalists see their images featured in Umbra’s annual gallery book and online exhibitions, and are highlighted across Umbra’s social media channels and newsletter—putting creators in front of collectors, editors and photography enthusiasts worldwide.
Submissions close on November 30, 2025. Photographers may enter unlimited .jpg images (RGB, 300 dpi, max 5 MB per file) through the Umbra Awards portal for a $50 fee per photo. After registration and secure payment, each entry undergoes a rigorous jury assessment, with winners and Honorable Mentions announced online in September 2025. The process balances technical excellence and creative interpretation, making the competition not just a showcase but a benchmark for quality. For photographers aiming to elevate their portfolio, participate in a respected global event and gain measurable visibility, the Umbra International Photography Awards 2025 offers a fact-based pathway to recognition on the world stage.
The Umbra International Photography Awards 2025 Prizes
Every placement brings its own honor and emblematic award:
- Grand Photographer of the Year: Umbra Grand Gold Statue, Gold Medal, Winner Seal & Certificate
- 3 Gold Medal Winners: Gold Medal, Winner Seal & Certificate
- 27 Category Winners (1st, 2nd & 3rd Place): Winner Seal & Certificate
- 30 Honorable Mentions: Certificate
Related Photo Contests
The Categories of the Umbra International Photography Awards 2025
Entries are judged in nine thematic streams. The Architecture category exemplifies the best of architecture photography competitions, celebrating structural form and creativity. The Black & White stream highlights contrast and composition in a field akin to top black and white photo contests. Other categories span People, Nature, Fine Art, Events, Sports, Advertising and Portfolio, giving artists multiple avenues to showcase their vision.
Umbra International Photography Awards 2025 Dates and Entry Fees
Submission Deadline: November 30, 2025
Entry Fees
- $50 per photo entry
- No limit on number of entries
How to Enter:
Create a free account at Umbra Awards, select your desired category, upload your high-resolution JPEG (.jpg, RGB, 300 dpi, max 5 MB), pay $50 per image via secure online payment, and await confirmation by email.
About the Jury
A distinguished panel of international photography professionals will evaluate each entry for originality, technical mastery and thematic interpretation. Each judge also selects one Honorable Mention, and for an optional fee participants may request a professional review of their work by a juror.
Why Enter Umbra International Photography Awards 2025?
The Umbra Awards rank among the best photography challenges in 2025, offering a unique blend of symbolic prizes and career-boosting exposure. From the Grand Gold Statue to gold medals and winner seals, plus annual gallery book inclusion and social media features, this contest propels photographers onto a global stage.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the Umbra International Photography Awards 2025 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
Open to photographers worldwide aged 18+, with no limit on entries. Files must be .jpg (RGB, 300 dpi, max 5 MB); each submission incurs a non-refundable $50 fee. Entries may not bear signatures or identifying marks.
Copyright and Image Usage
Photographers retain full copyright. By entering, participants grant Umbra Awards permission to feature selected images in its annual book, social media and promotional materials. Unselected images may be re-entered in future editions.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
