Organizer Information
Aperture is a world-renowned non-profit foundation and multi-platform publisher established in 1952 by legendary photographers and writers, including Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange. Based in New York City, the organization acts as a "common ground" for the advancement of photography. Aperture is dedicated to connecting the photo community with the most inspiring work and sharpest ideas through its acclaimed quarterly magazine, book publishing house, exhibitions, and digital platforms. Their mission is to champion photography's vital role in nurturing curiosity and encouraging a more just, tolerant society.
Title & Description
2026 Aperture Portfolio Prize
Celebrating its twentieth year, the Aperture Portfolio Prize is an annual international competition that aims to identify major trends in contemporary photography and spotlight artists whose work deserves greater recognition. The prize seeks "innovative bodies of work" that have not been widely seen in major publications or exhibition venues. Unlike thematic competitions, this prize focuses on the strength of a coherent portfolio, looking for a resolved and consistent thread that carries across a series of images.
Categories
Photography: The prize is open to all photographic styles and approaches (e.g., Documentary, Conceptual, Staged, Portraiture, Mixed Media, etc.), provided the submission constitutes a unified body of work.
Eligibility
- International: Open to photographers of any age and nationality residing anywhere in the world.
- Subscription Requirement: Entry is open exclusively to Aperture magazine print subscribers. Subscriptions must be current through the Spring 2026 issue (No. 262).
- Work Restrictions: The submitted work must have been created within the past five years. Entries must come directly from the artist (not through a gallery or representative).
Program Benefits & Awards
- First Prize Winner:
- $5,000 USD cash prize.
- $1,000 gift card to shop for gear at MPB.com.
- Publication in Aperture magazine.
- Participation in a group exhibition in New York City (at AIPAD in April 2026).
- Possible opportunity to participate in the Aperture limited-edition print program.
- Shortlist (4 Artists):
- $1,000 USD cash prize each.
- An editorial feature on Aperture.org.
- Inclusion in the New York group exhibition.
- All Finalists (Top 5): Global exposure through Aperture’s social media and email campaigns reaching prominent curators, critics, and collectors.
Application Fee
There is no separate entry fee; however, a current print subscription to Aperture magazine is required. New subscribers must purchase a subscription (prices typically range from $75–$110, depending on location) to receive a magazine account number for the entry form.
Application Requirements
- Aperture Magazine Account Number: Required for validation.
- Portfolio: 10–15 JPEG images (3,000 pixels on the longest side).
- Project Statement: Maximum 1,500 characters describing the work.
- CV/Résumé: Maximum 2,000 characters or a single-page PDF.
- Bio: Maximum 1,500 characters.
- Image Titles: Corresponding to the uploaded files.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Final Application Deadline: 9 January 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: March 2026
- Winner Announcement: April 2026
- Exhibition Date: April 2026 (during AIPAD New York).
Location
New York City, United States
Additional Details
The jury for the 2026 prize includes distinguished industry leaders: Taous Dahmani (Curator), Jessica Dimson (Director of Photography, NYT Magazine), Jane’a Johnson (Editor, Aperture), and Avion Pearce (2024 Winner). The judges look for technical proficiency, a clear reason for stylistic choices (e.g., B&W vs. color), and a unique approach to the subject matter.