Deadline: 26-Jan-2026
The Current World Archaeology (CWA) invites photographers to participate in its annual CWA Photo Competition 2026, offering an opportunity to celebrate the beauty of archaeology through the lens.
Entrants are encouraged to share their most captivating archaeological photographs—whether taken during recent travels or from past adventures. The competition welcomes up to five images per entrant, each showcasing archaeological themes from any location around the world.
The programme aims to ensure that researchers have access to state-of-the-art research facilities equipped with the latest and most advanced technology, provide users with qualified technical assistance for effective use of these facilities and equipment, maintain and continuously develop the research infrastructure even after its implementation, and support other research environments—local, national, or international—including companies such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and incubators that may not have the resources to invest in such infrastructure.
The winning image and three runners-up will be featured in Current World Archaeology magazine and displayed at the CA Live! 2026 conference in London on 28 February 2026. The overall winner will receive two complimentary tickets to the conference, along with the prestigious CWA trophy.
The competition is open globally to both amateur and professional photographers aged 18 and above. Entries must be submitted under an individual’s name, confirming that the entrant is the creator and copyright holder of the image.
Photographers must ensure that all necessary permissions are obtained from individuals featured in their photos and, where applicable, from authorities for drone photography. Copyright remains with the photographer, but by entering, participants grant permission for the images to be used by Current Publishing for exhibition, publication, or promotional purposes.
All submitted images must be of high resolution, accompanied by details of the site or artefact photographed, the date the image was taken, and full contact information, including a postal address. The closing date for submissions is 26 January 2026, and the results will be announced to prize-winners by 9 February 2026.
For more information, visit CWA.