Launching May 27th...
Join the 10th Annual K12 National Photography Competition
Freeze a moment. Frame a story. Share it with the world.
Entries due by 5 PM (ET) on August 26, 2026
About the K12 National Photography Competition
Every photo tells a story—and this is a chance for students to share theirs.
For 10 years, students across the country have shown us their shutterbug skills, and we’ve loved every shot! Whether it’s from a phone or a fancy camera, these photos have been original, creative, and tell a story that only the kid behind the lens can tell.
Who can participate?
The competition is open to:
- All students in grades PreK–12 who currently reside in the U.S. (entrants do not need to be enrolled in a K12-powered school)
- Student photographers of all experience levels
From everyday moments to meaningful visual stories to just really cool images, students get to share photos that showcase their creativity and photographic eye.
They don’t need to be an expert — this is a “come as you are” kind of competition. And we can’t wait to see what they create.
Prizes for Every Grade Band
A total of 12 winners will be selected across four grade bands: PreK–2, Grades 3–5, Grades 6–8, and Grades 9–12
Awards
(Winners have a choice of cash or a Tango e-gift card)
1st Place
$500
2nd Place
$250
People’s Choice Voting
(Winners have a choice of cash or a Tango e-gift card)
People’s Choice Winner (one per grade band)
$100
What can students submit?
Students can submit original photos of just about anything. There’s no set theme or category this year, so there’s plenty of room to get creative.
Photos might capture a meaningful moment, tell a story, or simply express a creative or emotional idea. The goal is to share something that feels unique from the student’s perspective.
All photos must be taken by the student and should be captured on or after January 1, 2026.
No experience is needed — whether it’s a first photo or a longtime hobby, all kinds of submissions are welcome.
Any camera. Any style.
Students may use:
Smartphones
DSLR cameras
Film cameras
Mirrorless cameras
Point-and-shoot cameras
Any other camera type
The focus is on creativity, composition, and storytelling, not the type of camera used.
How Photos Are Judged
All submissions are evaluated by a panel of judges based on:
Creativity and originality
Technical skill and photographic technique
Composition and framing
Storytelling and emotional impact
Competition Timeline
Entry Period & Public Voting:
May 27–August 26, 2026
Judging Period:
August 31–September 25, 2026
Winners Announced:
October 2026 (date to be announced)
Why participate in the 10th Annual K12 Photography Competition?
It’s a great chance for students to share their creativity and see where it can take them.
Along the way, they can:
- Get their work in front of a national audience
- Build confidence and grow their creative skills
- Connect with a larger community of young creators
- Be recognized for their unique perspective and talent
Explore the 2025 Photo Gallery
Get inspired by last year’s winning photography and imagine what you could create.
Know the rules.
Before registering, please take a moment to review the official rules and regulations. You’ll be asked to agree to these terms when you submit your entry.
Ready to enter?
Check back on May 27 to submit!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many photos can a student submit?
Students may submit multiple entries. Photos must be taken on or after January 1, 2026. See the Official Rules for full guidelines.
Is photo editing allowed?
Basic photography editing is allowed as long as the final image remains the student’s original work. AI-generated content and/or editing utilizing AI software or tools is not permitted.
Do students need professional equipment to win?
No. Creativity and storytelling are the most important factors.
Who can vote in the People’s Choice contest?
Any individual may vote once per day during the voting period: May 27–August 26, 2026
Why does public voting take place before judging?
Public voting runs during the entry period, so every submission has the opportunity to be considered for the People’s Choice award. The earlier an entry is submitted, the more time it has to be seen and garner support.
Where will the winners be announced?
Winners will be announced on the K12 Photography Competition website, K12 blogs, and other K12 channels in October 2026.
Can I use AI to generate any part of my photo?
No, AI-generated content of any kind is strictly prohibited from being submitted in the competition.
Who can take the photo?
All photos must be taken by the student submitting the entry, including selfies.
Who should submit the entry?
For students under 13, a parent or guardian must submit the entry on their behalf. All submissions must be the student’s original work and idea.
Can I submit photos of celebrities?
Only with explicit written permission. Photos taken at concerts or public events require subject consent.
Stay in the know.
