KLPA Autoportrait 2026 Self-Portrait Prize

KLPA Autoportrait is a self-portrait photography prize from the Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards, run in collaboration with FORMAT International Photography Festival in Derby, UK. The 2026 open call asks photographers to explore self-portraiture through experimentation, trial and error and creative playfulness, responding to PLAY, the theme of the FORMAT27 festival. Entries close on 25 November 2026, and the first prize is €1,000.

The top 35 finalists will be projected at FORMAT27 in Derby, from 11 March to 11 April 2027, and in Kuala Lumpur.

Who Can Enter KLPA Autoportrait?

Photographers anywhere in the world. Full-time students under 25 can submit one image free in the Students Category, with proof of enrolment. It is particularly relevant to:

• Photographers working with self-portraiture
• Artists experimenting with staging, costume, performance and digital processes
• Photography students looking for an international showcase

What Can You Enter?

Self-portraits that respond to the theme PLAY. The brief welcomes experimentation: unusual techniques, humour, performance, mistakes that become part of the image. You can enter between one and ten images.

Entry Fees

• 1 image: €12
• 2 images: €24
• 3–6 images: €45
• 7–10 images: €65
• Students under 25: one image free in the Students Category

What Do Winners Receive?

• First prize: €1,000
• Second prize: €500
• Third prize: €300
• Top 35 finalists: projection at FORMAT27 in Derby and in Kuala Lumpur

Submission Requirements

Submit through the online call on PhMuseum. Students must provide proof of full-time enrolment for the free entry. Read the full terms before entering.

Why Enter?

Self-portrait prizes are uncommon, and this one connects your work with FORMAT, one of the UK's leading photography festivals. A themed call is also a good reason to make new, experimental work rather than re-entering old images.

How to Respond to the Theme

Play can mean many things: games, costume, role play, chance, physical experiment, collaboration with friends or family, or playing with the camera itself through long exposures, collage or in-camera tricks. Choose one idea and push it. A small, consistent set often reads better than a mix of approaches, and a strong single image can win on its own. Keep the self-portrait aspect clear, even when your face is hidden.

About KLPA and FORMAT

The Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards run portrait photography competitions and show finalists at festivals internationally. FORMAT International Photography Festival takes place in Derby and brings together exhibitions, talks and portfolio reviews.

Practical Tips for Self-Portraits

Self-portraits are technically demanding: you are both photographer and subject. Use a tripod and a remote release or the timer, and set focus on a marker placed where you will stand. Shoot many frames and allow accidents; the theme of play rewards spontaneity. Think about how much of yourself to show: a hand, a shadow, a reflection or a costume can be as revealing as a face. Finally, give each image a short title or caption that helps the jury understand your idea.

Showing Work as a Projection

The finalists' work will be projected rather than printed. Images with strong contrast, clear composition and bold ideas tend to read best on a big screen, so check how your selection looks large and in sequence before you submit.

Things to Consider

• Theme: PLAY, the FORMAT27 festival theme.
• Students: one free image if under 25 and enrolled full-time.
• Fees: cheaper per image when you enter more.
• Deadline: 25 November 2026.

Enter the Competition

Ready to enter your self-portraits?

Enter KLPA Autoportrait

For the full call and entry form, visit the official open call page.

Looking for more open calls? Browse all competitions and opportunities on Good Stuff Weekly.

Last verified: October 28, 2026