the imperfect lens

About the Open Call

The 'imperfect lens' call invites photographers to submit images captured using toy, pinhole, or homemade lenses, encouraging a focus on creative vision over technical perfection. The competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers globally, working in all photographic mediums and styles, though images previously exhibited in an A Smith Gallery competition or created with Artificial Intelligence are not eligible. Selected works, up to 47 images, will be featured in an online exhibition, on Facebook and Instagram, discussed in a GalleryTalk, and made available for sale in the gallery's online store. An exhibition catalogue will be published, and 27 images will be chosen for 'The 27' hardbound exhibition book.

What is Offered

Selected artists will have their images featured on A Smith Gallery's Facebook and Instagram, participate in a GalleryTalk discussion, and have their work listed for sale in the gallery's online store. An exhibition catalogue will be published, and 27 images will be featured in 'The 27' hardbound exhibition book. Awards include a Juror's Award (online solo exhibition, 'The 27' book, GalleryTalk), a Director's Award ('The 27' book, GalleryTalk), and a Visitors Award ($100).

Requirements

Open to all professional and amateur photographers working in all photographic mediums and styles. International entries are welcomed. Work previously exhibited in an A Smith Gallery competition is not eligible. Images created with Artificial Intelligence are not accepted. Digital images must be up to 1800 pixels on the longest side, saved in JPEG format at 72 ppi, and labeled with consecutive numbers followed by the artist's name (e.g., 1FirstName_LastName.jpg).

How to Apply

Applicants can apply online by filling out the online application form, sending images, and making payment via Paypal. Alternatively, applicants can fill out the online application, print the confirmation email, and mail it along with a check payable to 'A Smith Gallery' to P O Box 175, Johnson City, TX 78636. Images should be up to 1800 pixels on the longest side, saved in JPEG format at 72 ppi, and labeled with consecutive numbers followed by your name (e.g., 1FirstName_LastName.jpg).