Praxis Gallery invites photographers from around the world to participate in The Shape of Things, an international juried photography exhibition focused on composition. Open to all genres and photographic techniques, this contest seeks submissions that explore visual harmony, balance, rhythm, and the fundamental principles of photographic composition. With an expert jury led by former Hollywood film editor turned photographer Alan Shefland, the competition offers a unique opportunity for photographers to showcase their work in a professional gallery setting.
The competition is open to photographers aged 18 and older, accepting up to 74 images for exhibition. Selected works will be displayed at the Praxis Gallery in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from May 17 to June 14, 2025. Winning entries will also be featured in the exhibition catalog and online gallery. The contest provides multiple awards with additional benefits such as free entry into future Praxis calls for entry.
Submission is straightforward: photographers must submit their work digitally through the official Praxis Gallery website. The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2025, and notifications will be sent out on March 12, 2025. The entry fee is $35 for up to five images, with additional images at $5 each (up to ten images total). Additionally, artists experiencing financial hardship may apply for limited free submissions.
Overall, The Shape of Things is a well-organized photography competition that appeals to photographers interested in the art of composition. The exhibition offers a strong opportunity for exposure in a respected gallery setting, and the awards provide valuable benefits for photographers. The gallery provides support for exhibiting artists, making this contest a solid choice for those looking to gain recognition in the photography world.
For those interested in entering, submission details, image specifications, and further information can be found below.
The Shape of Things by Praxis Gallery Prizes
The awards presented in The Shape of Things competition focus on recognition and future participation opportunities. The selected winners will have their work exhibited at the Praxis Gallery and receive the following awards:
- Juror’s Choice Award – The recipient of this award will receive free entry into three future Praxis Gallery juried calls for entry.
- Directors’ Choice Award – This winner will receive free entry into two future Praxis Gallery juried calls for entry.
- Eight Honorable Mentions – These selected artists will have their work featured in the exhibition, the printed show catalog, and the Praxis Gallery’s online exhibit gallery.
The opportunity to exhibit in a recognized gallery and gain exposure among art professionals, curators, and photography enthusiasts makes this contest an appealing choice for those looking to enhance their artistic credentials.
The Categories of The Shape of Things
Unlike some competitions that are divided into multiple categories, The Shape of Things is a single-theme contest centered around the art of composition. Photographers are encouraged to explore the interplay of lines, shapes, balance, contrast, and movement in their imagery. Submissions can include all genres and photographic techniques, whether traditional, digital, experimental, or mixed-media photography.
Since there are no separate categories, all entries will be judged together based on their interpretation of composition and artistic execution.
The Shape of Things Dates and Entry Fees
The contest follows a clear timeline, ensuring photographers know when to expect updates on their submissions:
| Key Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| Submission Deadline | March 31, 2025 (11:59 PM CST) |
| Notification of Selection | March 12, 2025 (4 PM CST) |
| Exhibition Dates | May 17 – June 14, 2025 |
Entry Fees
- $35 for up to five images
- $5 per additional image (up to ten images total)
- Praxis Members: 10 images for the price of 5
- Free submissions available for artists in financial hardship (upon request)
About the Jury
The competition will be juried by Alan Shefland, a former Hollywood film editor who transitioned into a career in photography. With over 35 years in film and television editing, Shefland developed a keen visual sensibility that now informs his work as a photographer. His extensive experience in composition and storytelling makes him well-suited to evaluate images based on their structural and aesthetic qualities.
Shefland has exhibited widely and currently teaches photography, emphasizing its power as a medium for personal and artistic expression. His motto, “Taking photos enables us to make a visual statement, so go say something visually!”, highlights his commitment to encouraging photographers to develop their artistic voices.
Why Enter The Shape of Things?
Photographers seeking gallery exposure, professional recognition, and the opportunity to have their work juried by an experienced visual artist will find The Shape of Things to be a valuable contest. The exhibition at Praxis Gallery offers a professional setting where selected works will be displayed and archived online, allowing for greater visibility. Additionally, winning photographers gain the opportunity to enter future contests for free, providing continued chances for recognition.
The contest’s focus on composition makes it ideal for photographers who enjoy the challenge of structuring their images with intention. Whether through traditional black and white photography, experimental digital manipulation, or contemporary fine art approaches, entrants have the freedom to explore and push the boundaries of visual composition.
Furthermore, compared to many best online photography contests, The Shape of Things provides a well-defined exhibition process, clear guidelines, and opportunities for participation beyond just a single competition.
For more information and to enter the competition, visit: the oficial website.
