Organizer Information
The Royal Photographic Society (RPS) is a UK-based educational charity and photographic community dedicated to supporting photography and making it accessible to a broad audience. Founded in 1853, the Society has a long history of promoting photographic practice, education, and public engagement. Its International Photography Exhibition has been held almost every year since 1854, making it the world's longest-running photography exhibition. The 168th edition continues this tradition by bringing contemporary photographic work to a wider audience through exhibition opportunities, professional recognition, and awards.
Title & Description
International Photography Exhibition 168 (IPE 168) — Open Call for Photographers
The Royal Photographic Society invites photographers and image-makers worldwide to submit work for the International Photography Exhibition 168 (IPE 168). This open call celebrates contemporary photography in its many forms, welcoming diverse subjects, creative approaches, and experimental techniques.
There is no predefined theme or restricted photographic genre. Applicants may submit individual photographs or a series of images that reflects their artistic vision. The exhibition aims to recognize compelling photographic work and provide selected artists with opportunities to exhibit internationally, gain professional visibility, and develop future projects.
The selection process includes an anonymous online review followed by a print-based selection stage for shortlisted entrants. The exhibition will feature 100 selected photographs.
Categories
Photography and photographic image-making. There are no predefined categories or restrictions on subject matter, genre, photographic process, or technique. Alternative photographic processes and experimental approaches are welcome. Collaborations are permitted, provided the submitted work meets the competition requirements.
Eligibility
The open call is international and welcomes photographers and image-makers of all ages and experience levels, including students, amateurs, professionals, non-professionals, emerging artists, and established practitioners. RPS membership is not required.
Applicants may submit work regardless of when the photographs were taken. All entries must comply with the anonymity and image-submission requirements. The submitted photographs must be the entrant's own work.
Program Benefits & Awards
- IPE Award: £1,000 and one year of free RPS membership.
- Under 30s Award: £1,000 and one year of free RPS membership.
- Exhibition Tour: Selection of 100 photographs for a touring group exhibition at RPS partner venues.
- Solo Exhibition: A two-week exhibition at an RPS partner venue, with RPS support to develop and deliver the exhibition.
- RPS Journal Features: Four opportunities for photographers to be featured in the RPS Journal, selected by the journal's editor.
- Selectors Spotlight: Five photographers receive a statement from a guest selector explaining the selection of their work.
- IPE Journal Edition: All selected photographers receive a digital copy of the exhibition edition of the RPS Journal.
- International Recognition: Shortlisted photographers may be featured on RPS digital channels, including potential Instagram takeovers.
- Digital Spotlight: Selected standout entries may be shared on RPS digital channels during the submission period.
These benefits are subject to the Society's selection process and applicable award conditions.
Application Fee
- Standard entry: £35
- RPS member entry: £27
- Applicants under 30: £20
Applicants may submit four individual images or a series of up to four images. Multiple paid entries are permitted. Reduced rates may be available for groups of ten or more; contact the RPS Exhibitions Team for details.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 December 2026.
- Early-bird prize draw deadline: 19 October 2026.
- Application deadline: 15 December 2026, at 23:59 GMT.
- Final editing and submission confirmation: 16 December 2026, until 23:59 GMT.
The official announcement does not specify the shortlist announcement date or the exhibition tour dates.
Location
United Kingdom
Additional Details
The selection process is anonymous at both the online and print stages. Applicants should review the official entry guide and terms and conditions before submitting. Image manipulation and editing are permitted, but work must remain the entrant's own. For documentary, photojournalistic, travel, or natural-history images, any alterations affecting the authenticity of the subject must be disclosed in the submission text where applicable.
For questions about eligibility, technical requirements, or group entries, contact the RPS Exhibitions Team at exhibitions@rps.org.