Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 – Quick Key Points
- The Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 is a global photography competition focused on technology and its human impact.
- The contest is organized by Rest of World, a platform exploring technology beyond Silicon Valley.
- Photographers are invited to submit one original image that captures creative or unexpected uses of technology.
- The competition features three themed categories selected by editors and members.
- Applications close on February 28, 2026.
Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Competition Name | Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 |
| Organizer | Rest of World |
| Category | Photography / Creative Competition |
| Eligible Participants | Photographers Worldwide |
| Entry Format | Single Digital Photograph |
| Prize | Up to USD $750 |
| Application Deadline | February 28, 2026 |
About the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026
The Rest of World Photo Contest is an annual creative competition that challenges the common perception of technology as distant or impersonal. Instead, the contest highlights how technology exists within everyday life, often in surprising, deeply human, and locally innovative ways.
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Through photography, participants are encouraged to document how people interact with technology in their own environments, revealing stories that reflect culture, adaptation, creativity, and resilience across different regions of the world.
Competition Categories
Applicants must submit their photograph under one of the following categories:
- Surprising Screens: This category focuses on screens being used in unexpected, remote, or unconventional locations, or in ways that challenge how screens are typically perceived.
- Inherited Innovation: This category highlights older or legacy technologies that are still in use today, especially where creativity, repair culture, or DIY solutions extend their lifespan.
- Member’s Choice: Entries in this category are reviewed and selected by Rest of World members, who choose images that best represent technology’s role in everyday life.
Prizes and Recognition of the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026
Winners of the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 will receive the following awards:
- First-place winner in each category will receive a USD $750 cash prize.
- One honorable mention in each category will receive a USD $250 cash prize.
- Selected finalists may be invited to participate in a members-only online presentation session.
Eligibility Criteria for the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026
The competition is open to a broad and inclusive audience. Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Skill Level: Open to photographers of all skill levels, including amateurs and professionals.
- Location: Applicants may live and work in any country worldwide.
- Submission Limit: Each photographer may submit only one image.
- Image Date: Submitted photographs must have been taken within the last two years.
Image Submission Requirements for the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026
To be considered valid, submitted images must meet all technical guidelines below:
- The image must be at least 2,500 pixels on its longest side.
- The file format must be JPG.
- The photograph must be original work created by the applicant.
How to Apply for Rest of World Photo Contest 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Follow the steps below to submit a complete and eligible application:
- Select one photograph that best reflects technology’s impact or creative use.
- Choose the most appropriate contest category for your image.
- Ensure the image meets the minimum size and JPG format requirements.
- Prepare a detailed written description explaining the story behind the photograph.
- Include information on when and where the image was taken.
- Confirm that the image was created within the last two years.
- Compose an email addressed to the contest submission address.
- Attach your image file to the email.
- In the email body, include your full name, location, and image description.
- Send the email to photo@restofworld.org with the subject line “PhotoContest 2026 + Category” on or before February 28, 2026.
Important Dates to Note
- Application Deadline: February 28, 2026 (11:59 PM GMT).
- Finalists Contacted: Date to be announced by Rest of World.
- Winners Announced: Following final review and member selection.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Rest of World Photo Contest 2026
What is the Rest of World Photo Contest?
It is an international photography competition celebrating creative and human-centered uses of technology.
Who can apply?
Photographers of any skill level from anywhere in the world may apply.
Is there an entry fee?
No, the contest is completely free to enter.
How many photos can I submit?
Each applicant may submit only one photograph.
What file format is required?
Images must be submitted in JPG format.
What is the minimum image size?
Images must be at least 2,500 pixels on the longest side.
Can I submit a photo taken more than two years ago?
No, only photos taken within the last two years are eligible.
How are winners selected?
Winners are chosen by Rest of World editors and members, depending on the category.
What can disqualify my submission?
Missing information, incorrect format, or failure to follow submission guidelines.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is February 28, 2026.
