The KBr Photo Award 2025 for photographers is now open for entries! This prestigious international award—organized by Fundación MAPFRE via the KBr Photo Center in Barcelona—invites professional photographers from around the world to submit their unpublished documentary-style projects for a chance to win a €25,000 prize and gain major international exposure.
Below is everything you need to know about the KBr Photo Award 2025, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, deadlines, and expert tips on how to submit a winning proposal.
About the KBr Photo Award 2025
The KBr Photo Award 2025 for photographers is designed to support and promote documentary photography projects that are both artistically compelling and socially relevant. The award is biennial and targets mid-career photographers who are ready to take their practice to an international level.
What’s on offer:
- €25,000 cash prize
- A solo exhibition at KBr Fundación MAPFRE in Barcelona (February 2027)
- A second exhibition at Fundación MAPFRE in Madrid (June 2027)
- A comprehensive catalogue of the winning project
Past winners include Anastasia Samoylova (2021) and Felipe Romero Beltrán (2023), both of whom have gone on to receive global acclaim.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KBr Photo Award 2025, applicants must:
- Be aged 18 or older, of any nationality
- Submit a new or ongoing unpublished project (not previously exhibited or awarded)
- Have a professional track record (e.g. a prior solo show or publication)
- Focus on documentary photography with strong narrative and visual coherence
Key Dates and Timeline
- Call Opens: June 1, 2025
- Deadline to Apply: September 1, 2025
- Jury Decision: October 2025
- Project Completion Period: November 2025 – September 2026
- Exhibitions & Catalogue Launch:
- Barcelona: February 2027
- Madrid: June 2027
Meet the Jury
This edition’s jury comprises internationally respected photography experts:
- Diane Dufour (LE BAL, Paris)
- Ramón Reverté (RM Editorial)
- Krzysztof Candrowicz (Independent Curator)
- Gabriela Urtiaga (MOLAA, Los Angeles)
- Carlos Gollonet (Fundación MAPFRE)
Their expertise ensures the highest standard in evaluating artistic merit, storytelling, and innovation.
How to Apply for the KBr Photo Award 2025
Interested photographers can apply online by submitting the following materials:
- Project proposal and visual samples
- Artist statement and methodology
- CV with prior exhibitions or publications
- Any official forms as listed on the programme page
There is no application fee.
🧠 Expert Tips from Grant Database
According to our Proposal Review Team Lead at grantsdatabase.org:
“Photographers should focus on clarity and cohesion—ensure that your images and your written narrative complement each other. Include contextual details that guide the jury through your vision, but avoid over-explaining. A sharp proposal balances artistic voice with curatorial relevance.”
Need help refining your project proposal before submission?
📩 Contact grantsdatabase.org for expert proposal drafting, refining, and review services.
Why You Should Apply
Winning the KBr Photo Award 2025 for photographers can be a turning point in your career. In addition to financial support, the award includes global recognition through exhibitions in two of Europe’s major cultural capitals—Barcelona and Madrid.
With the strong backing of Fundación MAPFRE and a history of spotlighting trailblazing talents, this is a rare chance to elevate your practice onto the world stage.
Don’t miss out—submit your entry by September 1, 2025.
Let your story be seen. Let your lens speak.
For full support with your application, proposal review, or narrative refinement, contact grantsdatabase.org.
