
The Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025, widely known as KLPA 2025, is back with an exciting new theme, “Portraits from the Street”. This prestigious competition invites photographers worldwide to submit their most compelling street portraiture. The theme encourages participants to explore spontaneous, fleeting moments in public spaces, offering a challenge to capture raw human expressions in everyday settings. Open to both amateur and professional photographers, KLPA 2025 is a globally recognized platform to showcase talent and gain international exposure.
This year’s contest offers an array of prizes and unique opportunities, including a grand cash prize of USD $2,000, along with an exclusive three-month Artist HIN Residency Program in Penang, Malaysia. Additional prizes include USD $1,000 and $500 for the second and third places, respectively, as well as special prizes for students and Malaysian entries through the Zontiga KLPA Prize. The best 35 entries will also be exhibited at the Hin Bus Depot, a renowned art space in Georgetown, Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Submissions are open until March 30, 2025, with early bird concessions and free entries for students under 25. Participants can enter single images or series that align with the contest’s theme. Entry fees start at USD $15 for a single image, with discounts available for multiple submissions. With its dynamic theme, esteemed jury, and impressive rewards, Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 offers a valuable opportunity for photographers seeking to showcase their talent on an international stage.
The Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 Prizes
KLPA 2025 boasts an impressive lineup of prizes aimed at rewarding photographers for their creativity and skill.
- 1st Prize: USD $2,000 and an invitation to the prestigious Artist HIN Residency Program in Georgetown, Penang. This includes accommodation, a stipend, and access to valuable resources for artistic growth.
- 2nd Prize: USD $1,000, offering significant recognition and exposure.
- 3rd Prize: USD $500, rewarding exceptional talent.
- Student Prizes: Three student winners will each receive USD $200.
Special recognition is also awarded to Malaysian photographers through the Zontiga KLPA Prize, which includes printing vouchers, books, and even a reusable Lomo film camera for select winners. All Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards prize winners will have their work showcased in a major exhibition in Penang, featured in international festivals, and included in a curated photo book.
Themes and Categories of the KLPA 2025
Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 focuses on a single, captivating theme: Portraits from the Street. This category challenges photographers to capture authentic, unplanned portraits that reflect the dynamic nature of street photography. Submissions should highlight spontaneous moments, raw emotions, and the unique interplay between people and their surroundings.
Kuala Lumpur International Photo Awards 2025 Dates and Entry Fees
The competition offers a flexible submission schedule and affordable fees for participants.
- Submission Timeline:
- Opens: January 2025
- Closes: March 30, 2025 (midnight Malaysian time)
- Winners Announced: June 2025
- Exhibition: September 2025 in Penang, Malaysia
- Entry Fees:
- 1 image: USD $15
- 2 images: USD $30
- 3-6 images: USD $50
- 7-10 images: USD $75
Special concessions are available for photographers from regions with limited access to payment systems. Additionally, students under 25 can submit one image for free with proof of enrollment.
About the Jury
Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 boasts an esteemed panel of international judges, each bringing extensive expertise in photography and visual storytelling. This year’s jury includes:
- Annice Lyn: Documentary photographer and former Canon Malaysia EOS Youth Ambassador.
- Carol Körting: Photo editor for Leica Fotografie International Magazine.
- Chia Aik Beng: Acclaimed Singaporean photographer and author.
- Marika Cukrowski: Specialist from the World Press Photo team.
- Muhd. Hidayatullah: Malaysian humanitarian photographer and filmmaker.
- Lau Wen Huat: Founder of Zontiga, a photography and publishing house.
- Api Husien: Multifaceted artist excelling in photography, poetry, and directing.
Why Enter KLPA 2025?
Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 is more than a competition—it’s a gateway to global recognition. Participants gain exposure through exhibitions, photo books, and media coverage. The competition’s focus on street portraiture offers a unique challenge that pushes creative boundaries. For aspiring photographers, KLPA provides valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders, while established photographers can expand their audience through the prestigious platform.
Additionally, the exhibition in Georgetown, Penang, offers a rare chance to showcase work in a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by a rich cultural atmosphere. These perks make Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards 2025 one of the best photo challenges and competitions online, offering global exposure and career-boosting opportunities.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.