2026 Portrait Award

The Independent Photographer (TIP) is a London-based online photography platform that runs themed monthly competitions and publishes editorial work, interviews, and book reviews. The 2026 Portrait Award is the platform's portrait-themed cycle, open to portraiture across any approach.

Total prize pool is $2,700: first place receives $1,000, second $600, third $400, and seven runners-up receive $100 each. Winners are exhibited in London and featured across The Independent Photographer's Instagram (970k+ followers). All entrants receive a free online portfolio on the platform.

Selection is by Luisa Dörr, the Brazilian photographer known for her portrait series, including her TIME magazine cover work. TIP's broader jury roster has historically included names like Steve McCurry, Ed Kashi, and Maggie Steber — useful context for emerging entrants weighing this competition.

Eligibility is open globally. Submissions are tiered: $15 for one image, $30 for three, $45 for six. JPEG or PNG, minimum 1200 pixels on one side, maximum 10MB per file. AI-generated work is not accepted — photography-based submissions only. The deadline is June 30, 2026.