Photographic Competitions
PPI's photography competitions are designed to inspire creative growth, recognize excellence, and help photographers elevate their craft through professional image critique and competition. Open to photographers of all experience levels, our competitions provide opportunities to receive valuable feedback, earn prestigious awards, and gain recognition among peers and industry leaders.
Each year, PPI hosts two photography competitions. Our Annual Print Competition, held in late winter or early spring, celebrates outstanding photographic work and recognizes Iowa's Top Ten Photographers, along with several of the organization's highest honors. In the fall, our Panel Competition showcases a collection of a photographer's strongest work and awards the titles of Iowa Senior Photographer of the Year and Iowa Child Photographer of the Year.
Whether your goal is artistic growth, professional recognition, or simply challenging yourself to create stronger images, PPI's photography competitions offer an encouraging and educational environment to learn, improve, and celebrate excellence in photography.
Scroll below for competition details, rules, deadlines, and registration information.
Anyone is welcome to enter but only members of PPI are eligible to win awards. Not a member? Sign up and join our family today!
2026 Fall Panel & Photo CompEntry Deadline: Coming Soon Live-Streamed Judging: Date Coming Soon Awards Presentation: Fast Forward on Nov 8th, 2026 at The District Venue in Ankeny, Iowa. Official Rules and Requirements Enter PPI Fall CompetitionWhat awards can you win?
Don't miss the chance to up your game and become a winner! | 2027 Annual Photo CompetitionEntry Deadline: Coming Soon Live-Streamed Judging: Date Coming Soon Awards Presentation: Focus Forward Banquet on March 5th, 2027 at Hotel Millwright in Amana, Iowa. Official Rules and Requirements Register for Focus Forward '27 What awards can you win?
Don't miss the chance to up your game and become a winner! |
Why Enter Photographic Competitions?
Entering competition is a great way to take a step back and evaluate your work. Watch the judging to learn how to improve your skills and offer the best product to your clients. Not only that but win awards to add credibility to your business and attract clients who value your art.
How do I Enter PPI Competitions?
- Become a current PPI member to be eligible for awards. If you need to join click the button above. Entries from non-members and "out of state" photographers are welcomed and encouraged.
- Download and read the Official Rules and Requirements linked above.
- Sign up or log in to PrintCompetition.com to register, submit entries, and pay entry fees.
- Watch judging live!
A note about PrintCompetition.com: It's a great resource for both the day of judging and looking at other past print competitions. There is a $12 annual fee that will give you the availability to watch the judging live online. Additional tiers of pay allow you access to past events and watch other competitions. You can sign up to get text notifications when your entry is about to be judged as well as the final score.
How do I receive my awards from PPI?
Awards are presented in-person at Fast Forward (Fall) and Focus Forward (annual). Winners are encouraged to attend and celebrate alongside their peers, friends, and fellow photographers. Photos are taken so you can be celebrated publicly for your achievements. If you are unable to attend, arrangements can be made to receive your award after the event. Anyone is welcome at award presentations at no cost, find exact time, date and location in the corresponding event's schedule. Learn more about each event and sign up here.
What do the awards look like?
PPI awards are professionally designed keepsakes that recognize excellence in photography and serve as a lasting reminder of your achievement. Award styles may vary from year to year, but all are created to reflect the prestige and significance of the honor earned. Winning competition entries are listed on our website so we can celebrate you online!
What do I do with awards if I win?
Besides proudly displaying them in your studio, office or home, awards can be a powerful marketing tool. Recognition from a professional photography competition helps build credibility, demonstrates expertise, and sets you apart from competitors. Many photographers feature their awards on their websites, social media profiles, marketing materials, email signatures, and client consultations to showcase their accomplishments and commitment to excellence. An official PPI press release can be provided upon request for your local media publications.
Why should I attend the awards ceremony if I win?
While attending is never required, we highly encourage winners to be present whenever possible. Receiving an award in person allows you to celebrate your achievement with friends, colleagues, and fellow photographers who understand the work that went into earning it. The awards ceremony is one of the highlights of the year and provides an opportunity to be recognized, photographed, and celebrated by the PPI community.