RPS International Photography Exhibition 168: Worldwide Entries Until 15 December 2026
The Royal Photographic Society (RPS) is inviting photographers and image-makers worldwide to enter International Photography Exhibition 168, or IPE 168. The call opened on 15 September 2026 and the public deadline is 15 December 2026. The RPS describes the IPE as one of the world's longest-running photographic exhibitions, providing an established international context for new and experienced image-makers.
Who can submit and what work is accepted?
There is no stated minimum professional status or age restriction: students, amateurs and professionals from any country can enter. The call is deliberately open regarding subject matter and photographic approach, including experimental and alternative photographic processes. Images are considered without entrants' names being disclosed to the selection panel, which helps keep the focus on the submitted work.
A free image option and the entry format
The organizer allows four standalone images or four from a series, and explicitly offers everyone one free single-image entry. Additional-entry charges and upload requirements should be checked in the submission portal; the word free applies to one image, not necessarily an entire multi-image entry. Shortlisted artists will be asked to supply prints for the final selection stage, which may create production and shipping costs.
Awards and exhibition opportunities
The announced IPE Award offers £1,000 and a one-year RPS membership, as does the Under-30s Award. The exhibition tour aims to show 100 selected photographs at partner venues; other recognition includes an RPS-supported solo exhibition, journal features and selector spotlights. These are selective possibilities rather than guaranteed benefits for every applicant.
A deadline clarification worth noticing
The RPS overview says that entries close Tuesday 15 December 2026, but another line on the same page refers to all entries being finalized on Wednesday 16 December. To avoid relying on inconsistent dates, applicants should plan to complete submission no later than 15 December and check their confirmation in the official portal.
Royal Photographic Society official IPE 168 call: https://rps.org/exhibitions/ipe-168/