Does 1839 Awards 2026 allow AI-generated images?

Only in a designated category. 1839 Awards 2026 permits AI-generated images solely in a specific AI category; entries in other categories must be camera-made.

Are RAW files required to enter 1839 Awards 2026?

Finalists may be asked to supply their RAW files for verification.

When is the 1839 Awards 2026 entry deadline?

Entries for 1839 Awards 2026 close on May 17, 2026.

How much does it cost to enter 1839 Awards 2026?

Per-entry fees vary by tier and contest (Color, Black & White, Annual)

In judging1839 Awards

1839 Awards 2026

The 1839 Awards is a New York-based photography prize named for the founding year of photography. The programme runs three contests (Color, Black & White, Annual) each accepting AI-generated images only in a dedicated AI category. The organizers reserve the right to demand proof of authorship and original files. Notable for the 2024 'flamingone' incident in which a real photograph won the AI category before the photographer revealed the deception.

AI: category-onlyRAW for finalists

Deadline: May 17, 2026
Entry fee: Per-entry fees vary by tier and contest (Color, Black & White, Annual)

Official site Read full rules

Authenticity policy

AI policy

AI-generated images are not admissible in any 1839 Awards contest. However, AI-generated images are only admissible in a designated category as specified in any 1839 Awards contest. The organization reserves the right to request proof of the image not being generated by AI as well as for proof of ownership of the original files.
Source: https://1839awards.com/contests/color-photo-contest

RAW files

The organization reserves the right to request proof of the image not being generated by AI as well as for proof of ownership of the original files.
Source: https://1839awards.com/contests/color-photo-contest

Editing rules

1839 Awards isolates AI work in a dedicated AI category and reserves the right to demand proof of authorship and original files. A notable 2024 incident saw photographer Miles Astray's real photograph 'F L A M I N G O N E' win the AI category before disclosure - after which the organizers tightened the rule to require AI-only entries in the AI category.

Verified on June 24, 2026

Frequently asked questions

Does 1839 Awards 2026 allow AI-generated images?: Only in a designated category. 1839 Awards 2026 permits AI-generated images solely in a specific AI category; entries in other categories must be camera-made.
Are RAW files required to enter 1839 Awards 2026?: Finalists may be asked to supply their RAW files for verification.
When is the 1839 Awards 2026 entry deadline?: Entries for 1839 Awards 2026 close on May 17, 2026.
How much does it cost to enter 1839 Awards 2026?: Per-entry fees vary by tier and contest (Color, Black & White, Annual)

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