Time, space, and inspiration. Welcome to Deartline’s guide to one of the most transformative opportunities for a photographer: the artist residency. This page is dedicated to photography residency programs and awards that offer a residency prize. Unlike a one-time prize, a residency is an investment in your creative process, providing a dedicated period to focus, experiment, and develop a new or ongoing body of work in an inspiring environment. Explore these unique opportunities to immerse yourself in your craft and take your artistic practice to the next level.
List of photography contests and awards with residencies as prizes
October 2025
What is a Photography Residency?
An artist residency is a unique opportunity that provides a photographer with dedicated time and space away from their usual environment to focus entirely on their work. The structure can vary greatly, but most programs offer:
- A Place to Live & Work: This can range from a private studio and apartment to a shared space with other artists.
- Time: Residencies typically last from a few weeks to several months, allowing for deep immersion in a project.
- Resources: Depending on the program, this might include access to darkrooms, print facilities, studios, libraries, and technical support.
- Community & Connections: Many residencies foster a community environment, allowing you to connect with other artists, curators, and local experts, leading to valuable dialogue and collaboration.
- An Outcome: Often, a residency culminates in a final project, such as an exhibition, a publication, or an artist talk, showcasing the work you created.
Discover Your Next Photo Residency
Ready to take a transformative step in your artistic journey? Artist residencies for photographers offer an unparalleled opportunity to grow, create, and connect.
Use Deartline to find photography residency programs and contests with residency prizes around the globe. Prepare a thoughtful application, articulate your vision, and unlock the focused time and space your work deserves.
Explore our comprehensive photo contests calendar and find the residency that will shape your next chapter!