Photometria Awards 2026 – Coming of Age (18+)

Photometria Awards 2026 invites photographers from around the world to submit work responding to the theme 'Coming of Age (18+)' — judged by acclaimed American photographer Alec Soth.

As the festival reaches its 18th edition, the theme reflects on transition not as a legal or chronological milestone, but as a complex, ongoing condition shaped by internal ruptures, self-determination, and social negotiation. The call explores the emergence of autonomy, the body as a site of meaning and desire, and the tension between freedom and responsibility. Work may engage with personal or collective experiences of transition: first decisions, moments of emancipation or conformity, identity formation, and the weight of social expectation around 'adulthood'.

How to enter:

• Submit 1 photo for free, or up to 3 photos for €5
• Each image must not exceed 400 KB
• Photos must be original work — AI-generated images are not accepted
• Submission confirmation will be sent by email

Awards:

• 1st place: Nikon Z 30 Kit with NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm lens (courtesy of Damkalidis SA)
• 2nd & 3rd place: A signed photo album by Alec Soth
• One of the top three winners will also be invited to exhibit a solo show at the following year's Photometria Festival

The top 25 selected photographs will be exhibited in Ioannina during the 18th Photometria International Photography Festival, with the exhibition continuing to travel after the festival concludes. Results for the top 25 will be announced within two months of the final deadline; the top three winners will be revealed at the festival opening.

Participants retain copyright of their images, but grant Photometria the right to publish, display, and print the photographs with photographer credit. No financial remuneration is associated with this use.

For enquiries: info@photometria.gr