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.
The 2026 competition will be open in March/April 2026.
Selection Criteria
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.
- 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?
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.
(100-150 words) accessible to a non-specialist audience. Narrative accurately describes the intention, purpose and meaning of the image and enhances its impact.
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.
- 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 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.
Questions?
Contact Dr. Paul Joseph-Richard.
Dr Paul Joseph-Richard
Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management
Lisa Thompson
Doctoral Development Manager
