Praxis Gallery invites photographers worldwide to participate in its 2025 Staged & Constructed • The Art of Setting the Scene contest. This juried exhibition focuses on the deliberate arrangement of scenes, props, and narratives within photography, celebrating images where every element is intentionally composed. Open to all genres and techniques—from traditional to digital—the contest seeks submissions that blur reality and imagination. Participants stand to gain exposure through a physical exhibition, online showcases, and inclusion in a printed catalog. Submissions close on March 16, 2025, with winners announced by March 23 and exhibitions running from April 19 to May 10.
The theme emphasizes constructed storytelling, encouraging photographers to explore cinematic, theatrical, or wholly imagined scenarios. Entries must avoid documentation in favor of staged creativity, with no restrictions on post-production methods. Judges will select up to 38 images for display, awarding one Directors’ Choice prize and five Honorable Mentions. Selected artists receive visibility across Praxis’ platforms and opportunities for future exhibitions. Entry fees start at $35 for five images, with discounts for Praxis members and financial hardship waivers available.
This contest stands out for its focus on artistic intentionality and accessibility. The emphasis on creative expression and institutional exposure makes it a compelling opportunity for emerging and established photographers alike. By prioritizing artistry over technical perfection, Staged & Constructed offers a platform for innovative visual storytellers to showcase their work within a respected gallery space.
The “Staged & Constructed • The Art of Setting the Scene” Prizes
The awards for this contest prioritize recognition and career growth over financial gain. The Directors’ Choice recipient will receive free entry into three future Praxis juried calls, a complimentary exhibit book, and prominent placement in both the physical and digital exhibitions. Honorable Mentions gain similar visibility, with their work featured in the gallery, catalog, and online archives.
The value lies in Praxis Gallery’s reputation as a hub for experimental photography. Selected artists join a network of creatives and gain exposure to collectors, curators, and peers. For emerging photographers, this institutional validation can enhance portfolios and open doors to larger opportunities.
Staged & Constructed by Praxis Gallery Dates and Entry Fees
Key Dates:
- Submission Deadline: March 16, 2025
- Acceptance Notifications: March 23, 2025
- Exhibition Dates: April 19 – May 10, 2025
Entry Fees:
- $35 for up to 5 images (5 per additional image, up to 10 total).
- Praxis members submit 10 images for the price of 5.
- Financial hardship waivers are available via email request.
Participation is streamlined through Praxis’ secure online portal, with fees non-refundable but offset by the contest’s low barrier to entry compared to similar global exhibitions.
About the Jury
Praxis Gallery’s Directors, who also serve as curators, will jury the contest. With years of experience in promoting lens-based art, their selections prioritize originality, technical execution, and alignment with the theme. While individual jury members are unnamed, their collective expertise ensures a fair and artistically rigorous review process.
Why Enter Staged & Constructed 2025?
This contest challenges photographers to push creative boundaries, offering a rare blend of gallery exposure and community engagement. For artists exploring staged narratives or constructed realities, it provides a focused platform to showcase their vision. The inclusion in Praxis’ catalog and online archives ensures lasting visibility, while the nonprofit’s mission supports diverse voices in photography.
As one of the best photography challenges online for conceptual work, Staged & Constructed is ideal for those seeking to experiment and connect with a global audience.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.
