Photography

Photography is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline accepts all forms of photography including: documentary, conceptual, portrait, environment, color, black and white, alternative processes, digital, and mixed media. 

Photography winner photographing during YoungArts LA | Photography winner exhibiting work during National YoungArts Week

Competition Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:

  • I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.  
  • I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying. 
  • If I’m selected as an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.

Application Requirements

Strong portfolios demonstrate a mastery of the ability to take risks, develop an idea through a series of images, showcase a range of experimentation, and clearly articulate visual and conceptual ideas.

The 2025 YoungArts application closes on October 17, 2024 at 8 PM ET.

Resources

View select works from winners here.

See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.

Headshot of Alyvia Luong (2021 Photography)

Getting to experience a week surrounded by individuals who shared my interests and creative passion was something I’ve never experienced before. I am so inspired to pursue art for the rest of my life.”

— Alyvia Luong (2021 Photography)