The Arnold Newman Prize for New Directions in Photographic Portraiture

The Arnold Newman Prize for New Directions in Photographic Portraiture is an annual $20,000 prize awarded to a photographer whose work demonstrates a compelling new vision in photographic portraiture. The jury will select a Top Ten, from which the winner and three finalists will be chosen. The three finalists each receive a $500 stipend. All artists recognized in the Top Ten will be included in online exhibitions hosted by Maine Media and the Griffin Museum of Photography. The winner and finalists will be featured in an exhibition at the Griffin Museum of Photography in December 2025.

In addition to the $20,000 cash prize, the 2025 award includes a professionally produced publication showcasing the work of the prize recipient, three finalists, and six additional photographers recognized in the Top Ten. This softcover, perfect-bound publication will include a feature on the prize recipient, selected works by finalists and Top Ten artists, and contextual information about Arnold Newman's legacy and the history of the prize. Each of the ten selected photographers will receive printed copies, with the prize recipient receiving an expanded allotment. A limited edition of hardcover copies will be distributed to photography festivals, museum and university libraries, collectors, and partner institutions.

Submissions must include a cohesive selection of 8-12 images demonstrating a strong and consistent vision within photographic portraiture (JPEGs at 300ppi, recommended 1200 pixels on long edge, files not exceeding 5MB), an artist statement (500-word limit), a brief bio, CV, and a statement about how winning would impact your career goals. The entry fee is $65 per submission. Application fee waivers are available through partnerships with The Authority Collective, Black Women Photographers, Diversify Photo, Foto Féminas, Indigenous Photograph, Women Photograph, and Indigo Arts Alliance. Photographers seeking waivers should request them by September 26, 2025. All submissions must be made through Café Entry. Jurying begins after the deadline closes, with all entrants notified by late October 2025 and winners announced by the end of October. The prize is funded by the Arnold & Augusta Newman Foundation and administered by Maine Media.