Annual Photography Competition

Each year, as part of the Festival, we invite photography competition entries that capture an element of the PhD to share with a wider audience through the power of image and narrative. Previous themes included ‘The Joy in the PhD’ and ‘The Beauty of Discovery’.

Eligibility

  • Open to all currently registered PhD Researchers at Ulster University.
  • One entry per participant.

Exhibition & Awards

  • All entries will be displayed at the Festival of PhD Research.
  • The Winner, Runner Up and People’s Choice Award will receive a trophy.

2025 Competition Entries

The 2026 competition will be open in March/April 2026.

Selection Criteria

Composition

It refers to how elements are arranged within the frame of the photograph. A well-composed photo will have a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement of subjects, lines, shapes, light and space.

Impact
  • Captures the theme: Does the image directly relate to the competition's theme, "PhD: The Beauty of Discovery"?
  • Imagination: A fresh, unique, innovative and new approach to what had been captured. Does the image spark the viewer's imagination and helps them ‘see’ what you experience in your journey?
  • Inspires the viewer: Does the image evoke positive emotions, such as inspiration, curiosity, or wonder?
Storytelling

A powerful photograph will evoke emotions and tell a compelling story. The best photos often have a clear narrative, conveying a message or capturing an interesting moment in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

Clear, concise narrative

(100-150 words) accessible to a non-specialist audience. Narrative accurately describes the intention, purpose and meaning of the image and enhances its impact.

Was it a good photo?

It captures a moment of spontaneity; it tells a story; it evokes emotion; it gives the viewer the power to interpret the meaning of what is captured; it is creative in its way of looking at things, people, feelings and nature; it reveals a unique perspective.

View samples

  • Landscape orientation only.
  • JPEG/JPG format, maximum 1 GB.
  • Mobile photography welcome.
  • File name: Include your name (e.g., [Your Name] submission).
  • Black and white OR colour photos accepted.
  • AI generated images are not accepted.
  • Minor adjustments allowed (cropping, sharpening, contrast).  No significant alteration or artistic enhancement. Judges may request the original file for verification.
  • Remember, no AI tools or filters allowed.
  • Images must be taken by the applicant.
Image Caption/ Narrative Requirements
  • Image title: 2-5 words (maximum 10 words).
  • Narrative: 100-150 words.
    • You can describe your image and its connection to your research journey.
    • You may explain the purpose, intention, and meaning of the image.
    • In an accessible language: Avoid acronyms and jargon.

Ethics

  • Images must not contain identifiable humans.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and others.
  • Respect animal welfare and avoid harming their habitat.
  • Comply with all relevant national and international legislation.
  • Respect the work of other photographers and avoid plagiarism.
  • Unethical practices will lead to disqualification.

Data Protection

When processing and storing data, the competition organisers will adhere to the Data Protection and GDPR regulations (2018).

Terms and Conditions

  • Participants must own the copyright of submitted images and ensure they do not infringe on any third-party rights.
  • Images must comply with all laws.
  • Copyright remains with the creators, but by entering, participants grant the Doctoral College non-commercial use rights for promotion, exhibition, and research publications.