World Press Photo Contest 2026
World Press Photo runs the most granular verification process in the industry: independent forensic analysts review RAW files, EXIF metadata, editing histories, and frame sequences for every finalist. The contest's absolute prohibition on adding or removing scene elements has been the photojournalism benchmark since the 2010 Stepan Rudik case. For the 2026 cycle, generative AI tools were explicitly banned, including features embedded in commercial editing software. Entry is free.
- Deadline
- January 17, 2026
- Entry fee
- Free entry
- Opens
- October 1, 2025
Authenticity policy
AI policy
AI-generated images are not photography. All photographs entered into the contest must be made with a camera. No synthetic or artificially generated images are allowed, and no use of artificially generative fill is allowed in post-production.
RAW files
Entrants must provide file(s) as recorded by the camera for all images that proceed to the final stages of the contest. These file(s) will be requested and studied confidentially between 26 January and 22 February 2026.
Editing rules
Generative AI tools, including features embedded in commercial software like Adobe Photoshop's Generative Fill, are explicitly banned. AI-powered noise reduction is permitted at the time of writing, though the contest advises restraint.
Verified on June 8, 2026
Frequently asked questions
- Does World Press Photo Contest 2026 allow AI-generated images?
- No. World Press Photo Contest 2026 does not permit AI-generated images in its competition entries.
- Are RAW files required to enter World Press Photo Contest 2026?
- Yes. World Press Photo Contest 2026 requires entrants to supply their RAW files.
- When is the World Press Photo Contest 2026 entry deadline?
- Entries for World Press Photo Contest 2026 close on January 17, 2026.
- How much does it cost to enter World Press Photo Contest 2026?
- World Press Photo Contest 2026 is free to enter.
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