Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize 2026

The Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize is one of the most celebrated portrait photography competitions in the world, hosted by the National Portrait Gallery in London. Open to photographers of all levels — from gifted amateurs to established professionals — the prize welcomes submissions from around the globe.

The competition celebrates the full spectrum of portrait photography, from formal commissioned work to spontaneous, intimate moments with friends and family. Images may explore both traditional and contemporary approaches, capturing a range of characters, moods, and locations.

Eligibility:

• Open to all photographers worldwide (amateur and professional)
• Must be 18 years of age or older as of 1 January 2026
• All photographs must have been taken from life after 1 January 2025
• Previous first prize-winners (from 2008 onwards) are not eligible
• Up to 6 photographs may be submitted (individual portraits or a series)

How It Works:

• Round 1: Register and upload digital images (JPG/JPEG, max 3 MB per file) via the National Portrait Gallery's competition platform at competitions.npg.org.uk
• Round 2 (by invitation): Selected photographers must deliver un-framed physical prints to London (max 1015 x 760mm, under 20kg). All delivery, shipping, insurance, and collection costs are the artist's responsibility. The Gallery will not cover customs charges.
• Photographers selected for exhibition must provide signed model release forms.

Awards & Benefits:

• Monetary prizes awarded at the judges' discretion
• Exhibition of selected works at the National Portrait Gallery, London (5 November 2026 – 17 January 2027), with potential national tour
• Featured in the exhibition catalogue, posters, postcards, and marketing materials worldwide

Key Dates:

• Round 1 Deadline: 21 April 2026 at 22:00 (UK time)
• Round 2 Notification: 7 May 2026
• Round 2 Physical Delivery: 26 May – 2 June 2026
• Final Exhibition Notification: By 10 June 2026
• Collection of un-exhibited works: 11–17 June 2026 (works remaining after 17 June will be disposed of without notice)
• Exhibition: 5 November 2026 – 17 January 2027

Entry fee is £22 per entry. Discounted fees may be available — contact the Gallery for details.