31st National Competition 2026

Soho Photo Gallery is a photographer-run cooperative gallery in New York, founded in 1971 by photojournalists. It bills itself as the longest-running cooperative photography gallery in the city. The gallery is now located on W23rd Street in Chelsea, having moved from its original SoHo location.

The National Competition is the gallery's annual juried exhibition. The 2026 edition is the 31st. Approximately 60 photographs are selected for the show. Cash prizes go to first place ($400) and second place ($200). Third place and up to four honorable mentions receive prizes from sponsor Archival Methods. The 2026 juror is Joanna Lehan, Manager of Curatorial Projects at the Museum of the City of New York, with prior curatorial work at ICP and bylines in photography journals.

Eligibility is restricted to photographers 18 and over who are US residents. Gallery members are excluded. AI-generated work is not accepted. Previous winners may apply but must submit different photographs; no previously exhibited work.

Submission is through the CaFÉ platform. Files are JPEG, longest dimension max 1220 pixels at 72 DPI. Up to 12 images. Fee is $55 for 1–5 images, $5 per additional image. If selected, work must be gallery-quality printed, mounted, framed, and pre-wired for hanging — maximum width 48 inches including frame. The gallery commission on sales is 30%.

Key 2026 dates: deadline May 9; notification June 7; work delivery June 18; exhibition June 24 – July 12; opening reception June 25; pickup July 14.