Photography Contest

Polaroid x Magnum Open Call

Polaroid x Magnum Open Call

Deadline |

CLOSED

Theme |

Empathy-driven story

Territory |

Worldwide

Eligibility |

Open to all

Entry Fees |

FREE

Prizes |

Equipment
Enter your photography folio and the empathy-driven story you want to capture for your chance to earn a Polaroid I-2 camera, 12 packs of Polaroid Film to capture your story and participate in online critique with three Magnum photographers.

Instant photography is a tool for building human connection.

As our world becomes increasingly hyper-digitized, it’s critical that we preserve a core pillar of photography: human connection. The ability to see things from someone else’s perspective. Empathy. And seeing life not as only black and white, but all shades of gray. We are looking for stories of subcultures, topics, professions, beliefs or movements that are often overlooked, misunderstood or could be simply benefitted by viewership through an empathetic lens.

To join the Polaroid X Magnum Open Call, submit two separate photo stories, with up to 15 images per story and a 50-word write-up of an empathy-building, perspective-changing story you believe will help people see life in all shades of gray. This story must be feasible to shoot—or a project you’re currently shooting—as, should your entry be selected, you will receive a Polaroid I-2 Camera and enough Polaroid Film to capture this story. Which will have the opportunity to be showcased and accredited globally on Polaroid and Magnum channels.

NOTE: YOU DO NOT NEED TO SUBMIT POLAROID IMAGES. Analog or digital imagery is acceptable as the winners will receive everything they need to become competent in instant photography.

What winners receive
A Polaroid I-2 Instant Camera
12 packs of Polaroid i-Type BW Film
Intro session with Polaroid representative
3 online group critiques with Magnum-represented photographers (of approx. 2 hours each) with the other winners

Featured Photo Contest

AAP Magazine #58 / B&W

$1,000 cash prizes | Winning image(s) published in AAP Magazine #58 | Extensive press coverage and global recognition

Best Photography Contests in 2024

Each year, there are hundreds of photography competitions all over the world, so we've decided to select for you the best of the best! Our selection of the best photo contests in 2024 is thoroughly curated to help you, whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur, to help find your next creative breakthrough. These all-star competitions offer the greatest opportunities for international exposure and/or incredible financial benefits. Some of them are closing soon, so get your photo submissions in!

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