Shapes Photography Contest 2026: International Call for Entries

AAP Magazine is excited to announce its 59th printed issue, dedicated to the theme of Shapes. This issue will feature the best photography projects that explore the concept of shape in its myriad forms.

A shape is the form of an object or its external boundary, outline, or external surface. Whether it's a square, circle, triangle, hexagon, rectangle, or oval, shapes are all around us, influencing how we perceive the world.

Henri Cartier-Bresson once said, ''The rhythm of surfaces, lines, and values is for me the essence of photography; composition should be a constant of preoccupation... an organic coordination of visual elements.'' This sentiment perfectly encapsulates what we are seeking for this issue. We want to see how you capture the elements that abstract into light, texture, shape, and shadow in your photography.

We invite photographers from around the world to send us their images—preferably series—where shapes not only influence the pictures but also serve as the subject itself. Whether your work falls under architecture, portrait, landscape, nude, street, or any other form of photography—classic or experimental—we are open to all genres. Our goal is to discover the most interesting and compelling photography projects globally.

Winners of this competition will receive $1,000 in cash awards, with their winning images printed in AAP Magazine #59, and extensive press coverage. All winners will also have their work published in the 59th printed issue of AAP Magazine, receive a free copy of the magazine, and have their portfolio showcased in the Winners Gallery on www.all-about-photo.com.


The first-place winner will be awarded $500, an exclusive interview, and have their winning images or portfolio featured in AAP Magazine Volume 59: Shapes. Additionally, they will receive a free copy of the magazine, which will be available for sale and distribution on Blurb.com, and their work will be showcased in the online Winners Gallery of All About Photo.

The second-place winner will receive $300 and have their winning images or portfolio included in AAP Magazine Volume 59: Shapes. They too will receive a free copy of the magazine and have their work featured in the online Winners Gallery of All About Photo.

The third-place winner will be awarded $200 and their winning images or portfolio will be published in AAP Magazine Volume 59: Shapes. They will also receive a free copy of the magazine and have their work showcased in the online Winners Gallery of All About Photo.

Additionally, the next 23 winners, ranked from 4 to 25, will have their best images or portfolio published in AAP Magazine Vol.59.

Note: Images previously published in AAP Magazine are not eligible for submission.


This competition is an incredible opportunity to have your work seen by a global audience of photography enthusiasts and professionals. Participating can be a pivotal moment in your career, providing exposure to editors, book publishers, gallery owners, festival directors, creative directors, curators, and online media publishers.

Don't miss the chance to be featured on All About Photo, a leading platform in the photography industry showcasing the work of both famous photographers and new talents. Share your work with the world and catch the attention of diverse media outlets through our promotion on our website and social profiles.

Submit your best photographs centered on the theme of shapes and become part of the illustrious AAP Magazine Vol.59. Elevate your craft, gain exposure, and join the ranks of celebrated photographers. Submit your work today and let your creativity shape the future of photography.