About the Open Call

Established in 1977, PhotoSpiva is the longest-running competition of its kind in the U.S. It welcomes any photographic process—traditional, digital, or photo-based mixed media—as long as it is original artwork and has not been previously exhibited at Spiva Center for the Arts. The competition is juried by renowned professionals, with the 2026 juror being Dan Winters.

What is Offered

Cash awards: 1st Place ($1,000), 2nd Place ($750), 3rd Place ($500), three Merit Awards ($150 each), and three Honorable Mentions ($100 each). Includes a physical exhibition at the Spiva Center for the Arts from March 14 – May 2, 2026.

Requirements

Open to any amateur or professional photographer in the United States or its territories. Submitted images must be the photographer’s own work. Two-dimensional work derived from any photographic process is eligible; three-dimensional work is not. A minimum of five photos must be entered for the initial application fee; additional entries are $10 each.

How to Apply

Submit work via the CaFE (Call for Entry) website at https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=16486. Images must be JPEG formatted, in RGB color mode, and approximately 1600 pixels on the longest side while maintaining aspect ratio.