Contest

The foundation of Visual Poetries is inclusivity, welcoming participation from photographers of all genres, skill levels, ages, and geographic regions. In doing so, the festival establishes itself as a uniquely diverse platform, cultivating a global photographic community. Aspiring and established photographers alike are encouraged to freely submit their most evocative and compelling images, bringing forth their unique interpretations and narratives related to the annual theme. The open submission format ensures that a broad spectrum of perspectives and artistic styles are represented, enriching the exhibition and ensuring a genuinely comprehensive portrayal of emotional expression.

Expressions - Life's truest portrait

About Theme of the year 2025

Every photograph tells a story, and expressions are the universal language that speaks directly to the heart. We invite photographers from all walks of life to submit their interpretations of our captivating theme—’Expressions.’ This theme celebrates the rich tapestry of human emotion, nature’s eloquence, and the silent narratives that unfold in everyday life.

From joy to sorrow, curiosity to serenity, and from dramatic landscapes to intimate portraits—expressions can be discovered everywhere. Whether it’s the fleeting laughter of a child, the intensity of an athlete in motion, or the subtle elegance of natural beauty, we encourage you to explore and capture these powerful moments.

Guidelines & Submission Process

Photographers are welcome to submit works across all genres: portraiture, wildlife, street photography, abstract, fine art, landscape, and beyond. Our expert panel of judges will look for originality, emotional impact, creativity, and technical excellence in your visual storytelling.

Submissions via the google form only.
You can upload total 20 images in any category.
One can upload in multiple catagories, but total 20 images only.
For queries, contact: visualpoetries.cfp@gmail.com
Check guidelines and FAQs before contacting.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Photograph Requirements:
Format: Digital, JPEG, RGB.
Size: Minimum 1920 px (longer side), under 10 MB.
DPI: Minimum 72 is must, maximum up to 150.
No Borders/Watermarks: Disqualified if present.

File Renaming & Captions: (compulsory)
File Name: photographername_category_originalfilename
Example: saurabhdesai_wildlifeandnature_dsc5589

Editing:
Cropping: Allowed up to 30%
Cloning and removing any elements from the frame is not allowed except sensor dust.
Multiple exposure or HDR allowed only if taken at same place, same time with same focal length.
We promote true to the scene images.
Panorama stitching is allowed.
Retouching: Basic adjustments allowed without changing the originality of the image.
Significant editing from original RAW/JPEG should be avoided.

RAW Files:
Provide original RAW or unprocessed JPEG if shortlisted.

Judging Criteria:
Judging is based on Creativity, Originality, Composition, Technical, Ethical, Artistic Considerations
Judges decision will stand final and no queries on judging will be entertained.
Jury may move entries between categories if they feel so.
Jury may declare ties.

Usage of Submitted Photos:

Organisers may use photos for promotional purposes with due credit to the photographer.

Disqualification & Conduct:

Influencing Jury: Disqualification for attempts to influence.
Confidentiality: Shortlisted participants must keep info confidential.
Results: Final results announced at the award ceremony.
In case of copyright conflicts on submitted images, the photographer is solely responsible for any legal issues by the claiming party.
If the submitted images are not properly renamed, resized or with borders and watermarks will be considered disqualified.

FAQ's

Trouble with Submission: Contact visualpoetries.cfp@gmail.com after checking FAQs.
Do we need to send you raw files? Only when shortlisted, photographers will be asked to submit original raw files and edited TIFF files for exhibition prints and media; if not produced the entry will be excluded.
Mandatory to Submit in All Categories? No.
Can submit in multiple categories? Yes
Can I submit all 20 images in one category? Yes
Please try to write description WHO-WHAT-WHY-WHERE-WHEN of the photographs.
Deadline Extension: Not possible.
Black and White Images: Accepted in all categories.
Shortlisting Notification: You’ll be notified if shortlisted.
Non-Shortlisted Images: You won’t be notified.