Photographers worldwide can submit images responding to the theme “Spirit of Light” until March 30, 2027
Application deadline: March 30, 2027.
The Vincent van Gogh Photo Award has opened submissions for its 2027 international photography competition, inviting amateur and professional photographers from around the world to present work inspired by the theme Spirit of Light.
Organized in Nuenen, the Dutch village where Vincent van Gogh lived and worked between 1883 and 1885, the biennial award encourages participants to approach photography with the artist’s experimental spirit. Entrants are invited to use the camera as a creative tool for exploring light, emotion and visual storytelling.
A photography award inspired by Vincent van Gogh
The theme for the 2027 edition is Spirit of Light — through the eyes of Vincent van Gogh. Photographers may interpret the concept freely, developing images that examine the expressive, symbolic or atmospheric possibilities of light.
The competition is open internationally, and both amateur and professional photographers may participate. A separate Student Award is available exclusively to applicants who are currently students.
Participants can submit a maximum of three photographs in each entry and may enter the competition more than once. Every photograph is evaluated separately, allowing photographers to present multiple interpretations of the theme.
Submission fees and early bird discount
For the main Vincent van Gogh Photo Award, the entry fee is €18 for one photograph, €30 for two photographs and €42 for three photographs.
Student Award fees are €10 for one photograph, €15 for two photographs and €20 for three photographs. A 20% early bird discount is available until September 30, 2026.
Technical requirements and image editing
Only digital photographs are accepted. Images must be submitted as JPG files in RGB format, with at least 3,000 pixels on the longest side, a resolution of 300 dpi and a minimum file size of 2 MB. Files should preferably not exceed 5 MB and must not contain frames, logos or watermarks.
Basic image enhancement, including sharpening, HDR processing, colour correction and adjustments to contrast or saturation, is permitted. Significant manipulation, composite images and alterations that fundamentally change the original content are not allowed. Winners may be asked to provide the original RAW file for verification.
Prizes and outdoor exhibition in the Netherlands
The winner of the main award will receive €1,000, while second and third place will receive €500 and €250 respectively. In the Student Award, the first prize is €500, followed by prizes of €250 and €100.
The nominated photographs will be presented in an outdoor exhibition in the public park at the centre of Nuenen from September 3 to September 24, 2027. The winners will be announced on September 3, 2027.
Photographers can review the complete rules and register through the official Vincent van Gogh Photo Award website.
Discover more international photography competitions and opportunities in Lemon Art Magazine’s open calls section.
Deadline: March 30, 2027.
