Photos: One day on the front lines of COVID-19

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Are you the next 500px Photographer of the Year?

Get ready to shine a spotlight on your best photos of 2023! The 500px Global Photography Awards are back for their third edition, offering you an opportunity to showcase your talent and become the next 500px Photographer of the Year. It’s the perfect competition to wrap up the year, and guess what? It’s entirely free to enter! With six captivating categories, the Awards has something for every photographer, from the zealous hobbyist to the seasoned pro. To level the playing field, we’ve introduced Hobbyist and Pro sections, ensuring everyone has an equal shot at claiming the title.

The Hobbyist section is crafted for passionate enthusiasts, students, or anyone who finds joy in photography as a fulfilling hobby.

The Pro section is designed for photographers who make a living from their craft, handle paid assignments, or even run photography-related businesses.

Ready to claim the title of 500px Photographer of the Year and leave your mark on the world of photography? Submit your best photos of 2023 now!

How the 500px Global Photography Awards work this year

Each category will have a Hobbyist and Pro winner and five finalists (12 category winners and 30 finalists total). The title “Photographer of the Year” will be awarded to one Hobbyist winner and one Pro winner, with amazing prizes to be won.

Submit your best photos from 2023 to be part of this global celebration of photography!

The Categories

Landscape

Landscape photography is one of the most diverse genres. There are a plethora of landscapes that can be captured, and each location can be photographed in intriguing ways depending on the time of day or vantage point. Nature is magnificent, and cameras have a special way of articulating that.

Submit your images that capture the spaces within the world—the vast and untouched terrains or environments.

Enter Now

Fine Art

Fine art photography doesn’t hold you back—it’s expressive and full of creative spins on the world around us. Whether by using props or post-production manipulation of colors, grain, or more, imagination is a strong weapon and delivers striking imagery.

Submit your images created as a means of expression, with an undeniable imaginative and aesthetic quality to them.

Enter Now

Technical,

Let’s get technical. That means sharp and in-focus, intentional manipulation of textures, and precise spacing of subjects. When done well, these images often feel easy—but they are the furthest thing from. Achieving a technically perfect image means mastering light, shapes, and more.

Submit your images considering lines, texture, color, size, and depth, resulting in a high-quality depiction of the subject.

Enter Now

Documentary

Documentarians help shape history. They tell the story of the underdog or the hidden narratives, they expose rich cultures and help awaken society to necessary change. The moment documented can be a moment that may be interpreted as simple, but through the lens, it becomes complex.

Submit your images that chronicle the world around us realistically and honestly.

Enter Now

Storytelling

When it comes to storytelling, a common mistake is to overcomplicate the elements within the frame. However, what will make a stand-out image is that the narrative is communicated and drives the audience to want to know more, in as simple a way as possible.

Submit your images that capture a moment, making viewers wonder what came before and what will come next.

Enter Now

Commercial Content

Commercial content allows brands and small businesses to connect with their audiences and is relatable and authentic when done successfully. Images need to stand out, feel genuine, and resonate with viewers as they see themselves reflected in some way.

Submit your images taken to sell, advertise, or market a business, a product, a service, a person, or persons.

Enter Now

The Awards and Prizes

The 2023 500px Global Photography Awards has more than $26,000 in prizes to be won! From cash prizes to stand-out gear from some amazing brands like Hasselblad, Xpozer, Joby, DJI, and Exascend.

Category Winners

Pro:

• Cash prize of $500 US
• Wavo PRO and Wavo AIR from JOBY
  The Wavo Pro is the ultimate professional on-camera microphone for creators and filmmakers. It can clean up background noise and LED lights notify you of low battery levels. High-quality modular and secure 2.4Ghz wireless audio transmission with a unique mounting system that adapts to your creativity with up to six hours of battery life. A fast pairing and easy-to-set-up process that works with your smartphone or camera straight out of the box.
• 2TB portable SSD from Exascend
  Inspired by and purpose-built for taking on outdoor adventures. Its sturdy, IP67-rated alloy allows it to withstand impact, water, and dust, making the SSD an ideal companion for professional filmmakers working in the wild.
• 24×36 print of winning photo and mounting system from Xpozer
  A razor-sharp, glare-free 24×36 inch print with an ultralight aluminum mounting system that allows you to easily click in and switch any new prints to help you celebrate your special moments.
• One-year 500px Pro account
• Global exposure via social media channels and 500px blog

TOTAL PRIZE VALUE OF $1,025 US

Hobbyist:

• Cash prize of $250 US
• Wavo PRO from JOBY
  The Wavo Pro is the ultimate professional on-camera microphone for creators and filmmakers. It can clean up background noise and LED lights notify you of low battery levels.
• Osmo Mobile 6 from DJI
  Osmo Mobile 6 is an intelligent smartphone stabilizer packed with creative features. It’s compact and easily foldable to fit in your palm and launches automatically once unfolded to capture shots at a moment’s notice.
• 24×36 print of winning photo and mounting system from Xpozer
  A razor-sharp, glare-free 24×36 inch print with an ultralight aluminum mounting system that allows you to easily click in and switch any new prints to help you celebrate your special moments.
• One-year 500px Pro account
• Global exposure via social media channels and 500px blog

TOTAL PRIZE VALUE OF $1,025 US

500px Photographer of the Year

Pro:

• Hasselblad X2D 100C medium format digital camera and lens combo
  An unrivaled merge of form and function—the X2D 100C establishes itself as Hasselblad’s flagship mirrorless medium format camera. A 100-megapixel CMOS sensor and advancements in image quality, focusing, stabilization, responsiveness, and storage, are built into the iconic Scandinavian design. The X2D 100C combines groundbreaking engineering with a craftsman’s touch.
• ‘500px Photographer of the Year’ badge

TOTAL PRIZE VALUE OF $13,000 US

Hobbyist:

• DJI Mavic 3 Pro Fly More Combo
  The DJI Mavic 3 Series features next-level imaging performance. Mavic 3 Pro’s triple-camera system ushers in a new era of camera drones by housing three sensors and lenses with different focal lengths. Equipped with a Hasselblad camera and dual tele cameras, Mavic 3 Pro is a triple-camera drone that unlocks new shooting perspectives, allowing you to embrace creative freedom further, capture fascinating scenery, explore photographic storytelling, and make cinematic masterpieces.
• ‘500px Photographer of the Year’ badge

TOTAL PRIZE VALUE OF $3,000 US

All category winners and finalists (30) will receive a beautiful 24×36 print of their winning photo and a mounting system from Xpozer.

How to Enter

Review the six categories that you can enter (at no charge to you) for this year’s awards. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with what our editors will be looking for, revisit your archive of images taken in 2023 and cull them with intentionality. You can submit any images that you’ve uploaded to the 500px site since January 2023, or upload new work to your profile to submit.

Please only submit your work to the appropriate skill level to keep the competition fair. Our editors will be using a keen eye and their best judgment to curate, but your honesty when submitting is appreciated.

ENTER THE 500px GLOBAL PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Not on 500px yet? Sign up here to explore more impactful photography.

The post Are you the next 500px Photographer of the Year? appeared first on 500px.

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Unveiling the next chapter: A fresh look at 500px

Exciting times are upon us as 500px introduces a new update, marking the debut of a fresh look and feel—a V1 of our evolving platform, if you will. This sleeker, smarter, and more tailored experience is crafted with you in mind, aiming to enhance your photography journey.

Embarking on this journey, we want to be transparent with you. Consider this a public beta of sorts; we’re aware that there may be kinks that need polishing. Rest assured, we’re committed to a process of continuous improvement, iterating quickly to refine your experience.

In this new phase, we’re experimenting with the latest technology, staying current to provide you with innovative features. Your insights matter to us, and we welcome your feedback as we navigate this evolution together.

So, without further ado, let’s explore the changes, knowing that this is just the beginning of an exciting chapter for 500px.

‘For You’ feed

The new For You feed taps into the magic of AI, understanding your likes, views, searches, and more. It’s not just about what you’ve liked before; it’s about broadening your horizons. We’re keeping up with the times to ensure you find the most interesting and inspiring content, tailored to your interests, effortlessly. Your feed gets refreshed every day, so you get a curated selection, just for you, without feeling overwhelmed. It’s all about tailoring your experience to give you content we think you’ll enjoy without the endless scrolling.

And guess what? Choices are on the menu! Opt for “Daily Dose” to mix it up with Mood Galleries, other photographers’ Galleries, and activities from those you follow. The photos in the For You feed are mainly from photographers you’re not following yet, but whose content we think you’ll love. If you’re here for the photos only, we’ve got you covered with the “Photos Only” option for an exclusive focus on amazing photography.

‘Following’ feed

Ah, the reliable classic. The Following feed does exactly what it says on the label. It’s your go-to for staying in the loop with the latest photos from the photographers you follow.

‘Explore’ feed

Say hello to the revamped Explore feed, offering curated categories like the classics Popular, Fresh, and Editors Choice, along with exciting new additions, Featured Galleries, Mood Galleries, Photo Stories, and Featured Photographers. We’re making it easier for you to discover incredible content. Let’s break down some of the new additions you’ll see in your Explore Feed:

Mood Galleries
Presenting Mood Galleries, a creative blend of AI and curated content. Think of it as your mood-based playlist for photography. It opens new avenues for content discovery, enriching and enhancing your exploration experience.

Photo Stories

Introducing Photo Stories, a fresh approach to sharing captivating visual narratives through a series of photos. We’ve been brewing this idea for a while, and we believe it’s set to elevate how you connect with your audience. Create and share your own Photo Stories or explore and discover them from others. And who knows—your Story might just get featured on the Explore feed!

Featured Photographers
Eager to follow and draw inspiration from more photographers? The Featured Photographers section is your go-to destination. Here, you’ll discover photographers handpicked by 500px Editors, individuals we believe you should definitely follow. The featured photographers showcase a diverse range of styles and categories.

AI search

Effortless Discovery Unleashed
Discovering the perfect image is now effortless with our upgraded AI search, empowered by advanced natural language processing. This exciting feature streamlines the search process, ensuring accurate and efficient results for the visual gems you seek.

To maximize its potential, describe what you’re looking for, just like chatting with a friend. For example, search for “friends on a scenic fall hike with their dog.” Our smart search comprehends and delivers the exact photos you need. Immerse yourself in simplified exploration with enhanced search capabilities.

New photo details page

Experience a refreshed photo details page, with streamlined functions and essential information brought to the forefront, minimizing scrolling. Discover even more amazing content with the addition of ‘similar photos.’ The updated page offers a better-looking, easier-to-use experience tailored to meet your needs.

Here’s to the beginning of something incredible! This upgrade is just the start. Get ready for a wave of new features as we strive to make 500px the go-to hub for photographers worldwide. Your creativity fuels our passion—let’s continue to build the #1 global photography community together!

Not on 500px yet? Sign up here to explore more impactful photography.

The post Unveiling the next chapter: A fresh look at 500px appeared first on 500px.

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Check out our 25 top-selling Licensing photos featuring animals

Animal enthusiasts, get ready to be awestruck—we’re diving into the 500px Licensing collection and highlighting the 25 top-selling Licensing photos that feature animals. These images aren’t just stunning shots of our furry and feathered friends; they also present powerful themes of connection, family, support, and our relationship with nature.

Not only creative and visually dynamic, but these photos also have all proven themselves to be valuable additions to their photographer’s portfolio, and are great examples of how animals can be used to convey a variety of themes and emotions.

Without further ado, here are the 25 top-selling 500px Licensing photos featuring animals!

Check out our Licensing Quests for opportunities to win prizes with your Licensing submissions.

Not on 500px yet? Click here to learn about Licensing with 500px.

The post Check out our 25 top-selling Licensing photos featuring animals appeared first on 500px.

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Let’s get festive this Questmas!

This time of year means one thing at 500px… that Questmas is here!

Questmas is a set of photography challenges (Quests) framed around 12 different themes. All photographers are welcome to submit their images to any of the Quests for the chance to win—regardless of skill level. Simply read the brief for each theme listed below, enter by submitting photos that adhere to the guidelines, and you could be the lucky recipient of amazing prizes.

12 days. 12 Quests. 12 prizes.

This year, we have sponsors supplying high-quality prizes that will allow you to grow as a photographer and develop your skills. Need a lens? Got you covered. A bag for your gear? Sorted. A tripod for your photography adventures? There’s a prize for that too! And so much more.

The Quests and prizes

Minimalist

Prize details: TAMRON 20-40mm for Sony mirrorless
Driven by a determined quest for portability, the 20-40mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A062) is TAMRON’s innovative, fast-aperture Sony E-mount zoom lens that will change your mind about standard zooms.

Join the Minimalist Quest

Adventure

Prize details: Lotus 4 CORE Pack bundle
The Lotus 4 CORE bundle combines speed, agility, and Mountain Series capabilities in a streamlined 28-liter profile. When paired with a removable f-stop Camera Insert, the Lotus 4 CORE is configurable for any photographic adventure with the flexibility to pack other travel essentials. An internal aluminum frame and multi-point suspension system distribute weight evenly for comfort while moving.

Join the Adventure Quest

Nature

Prize details: Befree Advanced GT black aluminum 4 section with ball head
The Manfrotto Befree GT travel tripod with a ball head is the ideal solution for professional photographers who need superior performance when traveling. Befree GT is the most professional solution in the wide range of Manfrotto travel tripods. It’s the perfect combination of portability—just 43cm when closed—and impressive stability, ensuring flawless, effortless operation even with a 12kg load.

Join the Nature Quest

Streetlife

Prize details: Vanguard Urban Kit: VEO 3T+ Travel Tripod with multi-angle center column, VEO City crossbody bag & VEO SPH smartphone holder bundle
The Vanguard Urban Kit is perfect for city, street, or adventure photographers and videographers, but it also suits practically any content creator, outdoors or indoors. Get a VEO 3T+ 234AB aluminum travel tripod w/ multi-angle center column and dual-axis ball head, a VEO CITY CB34 NV crossbody camera bag, and a VEO SPH smartphone holder—and save over $200 when you buy them all together!

Join the Streetlife Quest

Landscape

Prize details: NiSi 15mm F/4 Lens + mount
A manual focus design with one aspherical element and two extra-low dispersion elements. Mounts with ease on a wide variety of mirrorless full-frame systems.

Join the Landscape Quest

Perspective

Prize details: Gift card with a $250USD value from Moment

What started off as a Kickstarter in 2013 making gear for phones has evolved into so much more than that. Moment is the Marketplace for everything creative — gear, courses, presets, even trips. You can apply this prize to get some of that gear you have had your eye on. This could be your moment to shine!

Join the Perspective Quest

Animals

Prize details: ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B 4.0 memory card and ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B Single-Slot Card Reader | USB 4.0
ProGrade Digital has developed its new CFexpress Type B 4.0 Gold class memory cards with next-generation performance with your DSLR and mirrorless cameras to store all your favorite images. The ProGrade Digital Single Card Reader is then the perfect solution to transfer your stored images to your preferred viewing device, and is USB 4 compatible.

Join the Animals Quest

Emotions

Prize details: Godox AD100pro Pocket Flash 
The AD100Pro Pocket Flash from Godox is a compact speedlight with a removable lithium-ion battery that gives you up to 360 full-power flashes and thousands of lower-power flashes.

Join the Emotions Quest

Abstract

Prize details: 3-year membership with Photography Course Net
Frame Your Passion with the chance to join premium courses and challenges, connect with experienced photographers, and learn how to improve ANY kind of photography.

Join the Abstract Quest

Reflection

Prize details: Trio 28 ultra-compact 28mm, fixed f/3.5 lens
The Lensbaby Trio 28—a versatile lens that effortlessly combines creativity and innovation to transform your photography experience. Designed for the modern photographer seeking artistic expression, this lens is a game-changer in the world of photography.

Join the Reflection Quest

Architecture

Prize details: x 2 Fractal Filters Classic
These prismatic camera filters can augment your photos slightly or create kaleidoscope-like effects. Fractals adapt to your ever-changing shooting habits, shooting style, and environment. The patented PrismaLed optics give photographers more brilliant reflections than normal glass.

Join the Architecture Quest

Contrast

Prize details: The PRO Vlogger Kit
The most advanced on-camera mic meets the strongest GorillaPod for a truly PRO-level vlogging kit.

The microphone: Background noise is eliminated while built-in LEDs notify battery and audio levels in real time. Sound can be managed in detail and quickly when used in unison with the app sound can be managed quickly. At the same time, a second microphone has you all set for any interview scenarios. The GorillaPod: Premium, flexible legs & ball head secure pro camera gear.

Join the Contrast Quest

Join the Questmas adventure!

Not on 500px yet? Click here to learn about Licensing with 500px.

The post Let’s get festive this Questmas! appeared first on 500px.

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