The Visual Storytelling Photography Award

The Visual Storytelling Photography Award by Xposure recognises photographers who demonstrate exceptional ability in constructing narrative through images. Presented within the International Photography Awards, this category honours cohesive photo stories that communicate depth, context and emotional resonance through carefully sequenced photographs.

The award highlights work that moves beyond individual images to form a structured visual narrative. Strong submissions reflect clarity of intent, thoughtful editing and a deliberate progression of moments that guide the viewer through a complete and meaningful story.

Visual Storytelling is a category of the International Photography Awards.

Key Dates

Entry Deadline: 5 September 2026
Extended Entry Deadline: 20 September 2026
Judging Closes: 20 October 2026
Finalist Notification: 1 November 2026

Eligibility

The award is open to photographers of all nationalities aged 18 or over at the time of submission. Entrants may submit up to two photo stories. Submissions must represent original work created by the entrant and must not infringe on any copyright or third party rights.

 

Submission Requirements

Photo Story Structure

  • Each entry must consist of six (6) images arranged in a sequence that effectively conveys a cohesive and structured story.
  • The images should be curated intentionally, ensuring a strong visual flow and narrative progression.
  • Entries must adhere to journalistic integrity and ethical storytelling standards.
  • Minimal digital editing is allowed; images must remain true to the original scene.

 

Technical Image Specifications (Online Submission)

  • File Format: JPG
  • Colour Space: sRGB
  • Resolution: 300 dpi
  • Image Dimensions:
    • 2700 px on the long edge (for non-square images)
    • 1500 px per side for 1:1 ratio images

 

Story Description Guidelines

Each submission must include a written description between 150 and 300 words. The text should provide context, clarify the narrative direction and support the visual sequence without repeating captions.

Caption Guidelines

  • Each image must have a brief yet informative caption.
  • Captions should be between 15 and 40 words.
  • Must provide relevant context, such as names, locations, and significance.
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Nominee Verification and Print Production Requirements

All nominated entrants will be required to submit original RAW files for verification. This review process confirms authenticity and ensures compliance with ethical and technical standards across the submitted sequence.

Nominees must also provide high resolution TIFF files suitable for exhibition print production and related presentation formats. Files must meet print ready standards and reflect the final approved edit of the submitted story.

Failure to provide the requested RAW and TIFF files within the specified timeframe may result in disqualification.

 

Judging Procedure

A dedicated jury of industry experts will review submissions based on the following criteria:

  1. Narrative Strength – How well the images tell a structured, compelling story.
  2. Storytelling Impact – The emotional and visual resonance of the story.
  3. Composition – The framing, structure, and visual flow of images.
  4. Technical Execution – Sharpness, clarity, exposure, and overall image quality.

 

Judging Process

  • Round One: The jury assesses overall impact and narrative strength.
  • Round Two: Shortlisted entries are judged on technical execution, composition, and storytelling effectiveness.
  • Tie-Break: A final round will focus on originality and uniqueness if necessary.

 

Rights & Releases

  • Copyright: Entrants retain full rights to their work but grant non-exclusive usage rights to Xposure for exhibitions, festival promotions, and publications.
  • Usage Agreement: Winning entries will be published in the Xposure Yearbook and SGMB Public Archive.

 

Awards & Prizes

Winner – Cash prize of $3,000, trophy, and exhibition at Xposure Festival.
Runner-Up – Cash prize of $1,500, trophy, and exhibition at Xposure Festival.
Finalists – Featured in the Xposure Festival exhibition.

 

Finalists’ Travel & Accommodation

  • International finalists will receive flight and accommodation to attend Xposure Festival.
  • Local finalists who reside over 50km from the festival venue will receive accommodation only.