SPIE International Day of Light Photo Contest 2026

The SPIE International Day of Light Photo Contest 2026 is a contest inviting photographers to submit images that depict the impact of light on culture, economy, and society. It showcases the transformative role of light and offers prizes for top entries, including a Judges’ Choice for Best of Science prize. Submissions are accepted online, with an annual edition featuring multiple prize categories.

Prize money for top winners (First Prize USD 2,500; Second Prize USD 1,000; Third Prize USD 500; Judges’ Choice for Best of Science Prize USD 1,000).

Open to amateur and professional photographers; participants must be 18 years or older and not be employees of SPIE or optics.org, their immediate families, the contest judges, or SPIE-affiliated contractors.

Submit digital photographs, titles, and artist statements online via the SPIE.org entry form.