The Life Framer photography competition has been on my radar for some time, but its March theme, “Animal Kingdom,” judged by Robin Schwartz, really caught my attention. The competition is broken down into twelve themes, one per month, each judged by a different internationally acclaimed photographer or curator. Judges provide critique of their favorite images, giving artists valuable feedback from a top professional. At the heart of the award are curated exhibitions; the 24 winning and runner-up photographs and a hand-picked selection of honorary mentions are displayed at galleries in Paris, London, and Los Angeles. From Life Framer’s website: “In less than two years Life Framer has become a world-renowned platform for discovering and exhibiting contemporary photography from talented emerging photographers across the world. It is an independent photography competition of artistic integrity that promotes and champions creative culture on and offline.”

Life Framer’s site also features a Collection section, a curated space for which all competition entrants are considered regardless of whether or not they are shortlisted, as if there isn’t enough great photography to see on the themes’ pages of winners. I appreciate the sleek design and layout of the site, as well as the ease and simplicity of the submission process. This month’s theme, “An Instant,” is judged by Matt Eich. Submit now through the end of the month, and keep an eye out for the competition’s next five themes on Life Framer’s website or social media.

When exhibitions and competitions have an animal theme, I’m always excited, both to submit and to see a collection of photography about a subject I love. An image of mine was shortlisted alongside those of some great image-makers, and I’m looking to looking at more work by the winning artists.

Posted April 16th, 2015