The 11th Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025 invites young photojournalists worldwide to showcase their talent in a prestigious competition that celebrates the art of visual storytelling. Organized by the Rossiya Segodnya Media Group under the auspices of UNESCO, this contest aims to uphold the highest standards of photojournalism while commemorating the late Andrei Stenin, a celebrated Russian photojournalist. Open to photographers aged 18 to 33, the contest provides a platform for emerging talent to gain global recognition and contribute meaningful narratives to the world of documentary photography.
With categories spanning Top News, My Planet, Sports, Portrait: A Hero of Our Time, and Top View, the contest encourages participants to submit impactful images that reflect their unique perspectives on global humanitarian issues, cultural identity, environmental challenges, and human resilience. Winners stand to gain not only significant cash prizes but also the chance to have their work displayed in international exhibitions, bringing their stories to audiences across the globe.
Participation is free, making this competition accessible to all eligible photographers. Entries will be judged by a distinguished panel of experts, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Moscow later in 2025. With its combination of meaningful themes, global exposure, and recognition, the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025 stands out as one of the most important platforms for young photojournalists today.
The 11th Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025 prizes
The Grand Prize winner will be awarded an impressive RUB 700,000 (~$8,000), recognizing the most outstanding entry across all categories. Each category will feature three winners for both single images and series:
- First Place: RUB 125,000 (~$1,400)
- Second Place: RUB 100,000 (~$1,100)
- Third Place: RUB 75,000 (~$850)
Additional honors include jury-awarded Honorable Mentions, with winners featured in an international traveling exhibition that will visit cities across multiple continents, further enhancing their professional profiles.
The categories of the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025
The 11th Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025 offers five compelling categories:
- Top News: Capturing the most significant events shaping our world, from political milestones to natural disasters.
- My Planet: Celebrating the diversity and beauty of life, from landscapes to cultural celebrations.
- Sports: Depicting the intensity and grace of athletic competition, from triumph to defeat.
- Portrait: A Hero of Our Time: Highlighting the spirit and individuality of people, offering intimate glimpses into their worlds.
- Top View: Showcasing aerial perspectives, revealing breathtaking scenes and innovative compositions.
Each entry can either be a single photograph or a series of up to 12 images, ensuring flexibility for photographers to tell their stories.
11th Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest dates and entry fees
This free photo competition runs from December 22, 2024 with the following key deadlines:
- Entry Submission: December 22, 2024 – February 28, 2025
- Shortlist Announcement: June 17, 2025
- Online Voting: July 1 – July 31, 2025
- Awards Ceremony: September–October 2025 (exact date TBA)
To participate, photographers must upload their entries via the official Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025 website, providing all necessary details, including a title and description for each image. Submitted works must adhere to the contest’s technical requirements, including file format (JPEG), resolution (2,200–5,700 pixels on the longer side), and size (maximum 20 MB).
Importantly, all entries must have been created between January 1, 2024, and February 2025. Minor post-processing is allowed, but heavy editing or collages are prohibited to maintain the authenticity of the work.
Why Enter the Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest 2025?
The Andrei Stenin International Press Photo Contest offers photographers a unique opportunity to achieve international acclaim while contributing to meaningful conversations about global issues. With no entry fee, substantial prizes, and the prestige of having your work exhibited worldwide, it is a valuable platform for any young photojournalist looking to make their mark.
Moreover, the contest aligns with some of the best photo competitions to participate in, providing an inclusive and impactful way for photographers to share their vision. For those passionate about visual storytelling, this is not just a competition—it’s a chance to change perspectives and inspire action through your lens.
For more opportunities, check out other photography challenges and contests, including free photography contests, to explore additional platforms for showcasing your talent.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.
