Still/Motion by Solas / Shadow builds on a simple but enduring photographic tension: the relationship between stillness and movement. Rather than a broad open call, this exhibition is shaped around a clear curatorial idea, inviting photographers to explore how time can be compressed, stretched, or emotionally interpreted through the image. For those browsing Deartline’s photography competition listings, this is a focused opportunity with a defined conceptual direction.
Submissions are open until 27th April and are free at the entry stage. The structure, however, follows a common exhibition model: a participation fee applies only if the work is selected. In return, selected photographers gain inclusion in an online exhibition hosted by the gallery, along with visibility across its social media, YouTube channel, and a catalogue produced in both digital and physical formats.
The theme itself is intentionally open. Stillness and motion are treated not only as technical outcomes, but as expressive tools. A photograph may capture a suspended instant, a blur of movement, or a more internal rhythm tied to perception and emotion. There are no fixed categories, allowing submissions to range across genres while remaining anchored to this central idea.
Prizes
Still/Motion is structured around exhibition and visibility. The emphasis is on presentation within a curated context and distribution through the gallery’s platforms.
- Selected photographers:
- Work displayed in an online exhibition hosted on the SOLAS / SHADOW website.
- Digital certificate of participation.
- Featured across the gallery’s social media channels.
- Included in content published on the gallery’s YouTube channel.
- Your work published in an exhibition catalogue, available in both PDF and physical formats.
Related Photo Contests
Categories or Themes
There are no separate categories in this open call. The exhibition revolves around a single theme: the interplay between stillness and motion.
The concept is approached broadly. Images may explore physical movement, the absence of it, or the perception of time through visual language. This allows submissions to sit comfortably within different approaches, from documentary observation to more conceptual photography practices.
Dates and Entry Fees
The structure of the call is straightforward, with a single submission deadline and a two-step cost model based on selection.
| Submission deadline | 27th April |
- Submission fee: Free
- Participation fee (if selected):
- £16 for 1 image
- £22 for 2 or more images
Submissions are open to photographers worldwide, with a minimum age requirement of 18 years.
How to Enter
Entries are submitted by email using file transfer services such as Smash, Swiss Transfer, or WeTransfer. Photographers may submit up to five images per open call.
Files should be in JPG format and named using the photographer’s name followed by a number, for example: Ann-Smith1, Ann-Smith2. The submission should also include the photographer’s name, location or nationality, website or social media links, a short biography, and image titles if applicable.
Why Enter Still/Motion by Solas / Shadow?
The strength of this call lies in its clarity. Rather than spreading across multiple categories or prize tiers, it focuses on a single visual idea and builds a curated selection around it. For photographers working with a cohesive body of images or a small, concept-driven edit, this kind of structure can offer a more precise context than broader best online photography awards listings.
It also presents a low-barrier entry point. There is no cost to submit, and the participation fee is only introduced after selection. Combined with the gallery’s multi-channel visibility, including exhibition, catalogue, and online features, the call offers a defined pathway from submission to presentation without requiring an upfront investment.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the Still/Motion by Solas / Shadow 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
Photographers worldwide may submit, provided they are at least 18 years old. Up to five images can be entered per open call, and submissions must be sent in JPG format via file transfer services. Only selected participants are contacted.
The open call is free to enter, but a participation fee applies if the work is selected for exhibition.
Copyright and Image Usage
Photographers retain full copyright of their images. By submitting, they grant the gallery permission to use the work for exhibition display, website publication, social media promotion, and inclusion in related promotional materials and publications.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
