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Could a single image redefine visual storytelling? Telling Tales 2025 by the SE Center for Photography dares photographers everywhere to craft a solitary photograph that stands on its own as a narrative beacon. This global call opens May 15, 2025, and closes July 15, 2025, inviting both analog and digital submissions. Whether you’re an established professional or exploring new creative terrain, this competition spotlights the power of one frame to ignite imagination. Entrants may submit up to 15 images per person, with clear technical requirements ensuring every photograph is ready for exhibition.
In Telling Tales 2025, 25 to 35 selected images will be showcased in the SE Center’s virtual gallery for approximately one month, followed by an archived online slideshow and a video walkthrough. Chosen works will also be highlighted across SE Center social media for additional exposure. Entry fees are $35 for up to five images, with $6 per extra submission (up to 15). To enter, photographers prepare JPEG files at 1200 pixels on the longest side, name them per the template, and upload via SmarterEntry. Like the top photography competitions listed on our site, it demands narrative clarity and technical precision.
For storytellers seeking a concise yet impactful platform, Telling Tales 2025 offers a unique intersection of creative freedom and curated exposure. Under the discerning eye of juror Frances Jakubek, entries are evaluated on their ability to evoke emotion and narrative depth without supporting images. This inclusive program welcomes photographers of all backgrounds, ages, and locations, emphasizing the image rather than the creator’s resume. Whether documenting personal experiences or exploring imaginative visions, participants will find Telling Tales 2025 a compelling avenue for recognition.
The Telling Tales 2025 Prizes
Selected works in Telling Tales 2025 will be rewarded with:
- Virtual Gallery Exhibition: 25–35 images displayed online for approximately one month.
- Social Media Features: Highlighted posts across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
- Archived Online Slideshow: Permanent access to a curated slideshow of selected works.
- Video Walkthrough: A narrated tour of the exhibition preserved online.
Related Photo Contests
The Categories of the Telling Tales 2025
Unlike many contests, Telling Tales 2025 does not impose conventional divisions; every entry stands alone under the umbrella of narrative photography. This singular focus aligns it with other conceptual photography contests that champion the power of an image to tell a complete story without support.
Telling Tales 2025 Dates and Entry Fees
- Submissions Close: July 15, 2025
- Selections Announced: July 17, 2025
- Exhibition Opens: August 22, 2025
- Exhibition Closes: September 17, 2025
Entry Fees:
- $35 for up to five images
- $6 for each additional image (up to 15).
SE Center Members:
- $28 for up to five images
- $5 for each additional image (up to 15).
How to Enter:
Upload JPEG files (sRGB, 1200 pixels on the longest side) via SmarterEntry. Name files using the template Tales.LastName.FirstInitial.Image#.jpg.
About the Jury
Frances Jakubek serves as the juror for Telling Tales 2025. An accomplished image-maker and independent curator, Jakubek co-founded A Yellow Rose Project, directed the Bruce Silverstein Gallery in New York City, and served as Associate Curator at the Griffin Museum of Photography. Her extensive experience includes panelist roles for the Massachusetts Cultural Council and lectures at institutions such as the School of Visual Arts and the University of Iowa.
Why Enter Telling Tales 2025?
Participation in Telling Tales 2025 offers visibility through a virtual exhibition and social media amplification, judged by an industry expert. As one of the photography challenges and contests emphasizing narrative prowess, it provides a platform for both emerging and established photographers to elevate their portfolios and connect with a global audience.
Rules and Copyright
This section about the rules and image rights of the Telling Tales 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
Submissions must be original and not previously exhibited at the SE Center within two years. Entrants may submit up to 15 images, each in JPEG format, sRGB color space, and 1200 pixels on the longest side. Files must follow the naming convention provided in the prospectus.
Copyright and Image Usage
Artists retain full copyright of their images. By entering, participants grant the SE Center for Photography permission to use submitted images for promoting the exhibition, on social media, and in archived materials without further compensation. Sales are encouraged, with 100% of proceeds going to the photographer and no commission retained by the center.
For more information and to participate in the contest, visit: the official website.
