A Smith Gallery: Photographic Mysticism / An Instant Film

A Smith Gallery seeks artists who approach instant photography not as nostalgia, but as an invocation of mystery through chemistry, a meditation enacted in light and time. This call is open exclusively to instant film: Polaroid, Fuji Instax, or discontinued formats such as Impossible Project and New55. Subject matter is unrestricted; what matters is the spirit of inquiry, the tension between control and surrender, the evidence of touch and transcendence.

The competition is open to all photographers, both professional and amateur, working in all photographic mediums and styles. International entries are welcomed. Work previously exhibited in an A Smith Gallery competition is not eligible. The gallery prefers not to accept images created with Artificial Intelligence at this time due to copyright concerns and ongoing litigation. Michael Behlen, founder and publisher of Analog Forever Magazine and instant film photographer, will serve as juror.

Entry fee: $40 for the first 5 images, $5 per each additional image. No limit on submissions. Photographers submitting 13 or more images receive a complimentary review by gallery directors. Entries due: December 29, 2025. Results emailed: January 12, 2026. Exhibition dates: February 1 to March 31, 2026. Reception: February 28, 2026 at 3pm CST.

Up to 47 images will be selected for an online exhibition and catalogue. Selected images will be featured on Facebook and Instagram, included in an online gallery store (gallery retains 30% of sales), and published in an exhibition catalogue. Gallery directors will host a GalleryTalk discussing all selected images, posted on the gallery blog and permanently archived. Twenty-seven images will be selected for "The 27," a hardbound fine art book available for purchase. Awards include: Juror's Award (online solo exhibition, "The 27" book, and GalleryTalk); Director's Award ("The 27" book and GalleryTalk); Visitors Award for most Instagram likes ($100).