IOWP Wedding Photography Awards – Rules & Terms

The Rules

• All images submitted to the IOWP Awards must be photographed by the entrant. You must be the creative author of the image, including direction, composition, and capture.

• Images from styled shoots are accepted, provided you creatively led the shoot, and you were responsible for directing and capturing the image.

• Images taken during workshops, training days, or portfolio builder events are not permitted for entry.

• Images captured while second shooting are allowed, provided:

  • You were the creative producer of the image.

  • The image was taken using your own equipment.

  • You have obtained the lead photographer's permission.

  • Submitting the image does not breach any second shooter agreement

    Maintaining good professional relationships is essential.

• Unfortunately, images taken on your behalf by a second shooter or associate are not allowed.

• Composite images are permitted where:

  • You photographed all elements.

  • The camera position remains consistent across all frames.

  • Composites are used for creative or clean-up purposes only (e.g. removing equipment or distractions)

• AI, content-aware fill, or generative tools may only be used minimally to remove small distractions.

  No more than 10% of the final image may be AI-assisted. Judges reserve full discretion on this.

• In-camera multiple exposures are permitted, provided they are created in-camera as a single file.

• Overlays and artificial graphic elements are not permitted.

• In cases of uncertainty, judges may request RAW files for verification.

• Members may submit up to 10 images per collection.

  Images submitted within a collection should be visually distinct — please avoid submitting near-duplicates.

The Terms

• Duo or studio memberships may enter with a maximum of two photographers per account. Larger studios must use individual accounts.

• Images must be submitted as JPEG files, with a minimum of 2000px on the longest edge.

  Files should be optimised for web use where possible.

• Images can be taken at any time — entries are welcome from any year.

• Submitted images must not contain watermarks, logos, or borders.

• By entering the IOWP Awards, photographers grant the Institute of Wedding Photographers permission to display submitted images online (including on the IOWP website, social media, and promotional materials) to celebrate and promote members’ work.

  Full copyright remains with the photographer.

• Members are welcome to re-enter images in future collections if they wish.

• IOWP is a supportive and respectful professional community.

  Abusive, derogatory, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the awards or membership.

• All judging decisions are final and made independently by the appointed judges for each collection.

Our Ethos

The IOWP Awards are designed to celebrate creativity, storytelling, and craftsmanship in wedding photography — not technical trends or trends of the moment. We welcome all styles and approaches, as long as the work is honest, original, and created by you.