Working in association with Magnum Photos, IdeasTap has created a new and groundbreaking competition which gives young people (aged between 16-30) the opportunity to create and develop a photographic essay under the guidance of experts such as acclaimed Magnum photographers Ian Berry, Mark Power and Stuart Franklin.

The theme of this year’s photographic award is ‘Future – life after 2012’ and applicants will be directed to take a series of photographs that show a vision of the future after the 2012 Olympic Games. The award will be divided into three categories; photojournalism, environmental photography and conceptual photography.

An incredible selection of prizes has been secured for the award, with benefits for both shortlisted candidates and one overall winner. All shortlisted entrants will receive expert mentoring and professional training, with their photographs printed, framed and exhibited by IdeasTap as well as receiving a book featuring their work. Category winners will be given a budget of £2,500 each to create a dream multi-media photographic essay.

Finally, the overall winner will receive a paid eight-week internship at Magnum Photos in London, a week in New York to work with the Magnum in Motion team to produce their essay and a cash prize of £5,000. Magnum In Motion is the multimedia digital studio of Magnum Photos and assembles visual narratives for online and offline platforms, including screenings in museums, festivals, and workshops.

To Enter

Applicants must create a set within their IdeasTap portfolio containing five photographs (no more, no less) that show a vision of the future after the 2012 Olympic Games. Interpret the theme as you see fit.

Successful applications will be creative and striking photographs that catch the judges’ eyes and demonstrate photographic skill and understanding. The five photos in your portfolio must demonstrate your ability to tell a story with your images.

In the first round of judging the images will be viewed in Portfolio Presentation view on the site with a black background and no border (unless you choose to add one to your images before you upload them). Shortlisted members will have their work framed with the option of a black or white border for the exhibition.