Professional background of jury members
In each of the six regional juries, World Press Photo aims to have 40-60% photographers represented - a mixture of news and documentary photographers, freelance and staff, from a different variety of publications, news wires, and agencies.
The remaining 40-60% should consist of editors from agencies, newspapers or magazines, alongside professionals including (but not limited to) curators, museum directors, researchers, educators, critics, and artistic directors.
There should also be an even gender balance, aiming for a minimum of half of the jury identifying as female or non-binary.
Professional background of jury chairs
In order to facilitate conversation and encourage discussion within the jury, the jury chair should be someone who gives space for others to speak their mind without judgment or intimidation. They should be able to express their opinions clearly, while showing the ability to change their mind if presented with valid arguments.
The global jury
The global jury consists of the six regional jury chairs and the global jury chair. The global jury should include three to four photographers, and represent a mix of news and documentary photography backgrounds. At least one member should have experience with multimedia photographic work (deep understanding of the Open Format category).
Commitment
Before assuming the role of jury member for the annual World Press Photo Contest, each jury member is required to sign three documents:
- The anti-harassment policy
- A non-disclosure agreement
- An agreement to the judging procedures
World Press Photo conducts thorough research on jury members to ensure alignment with the organization's values and standards, as well as to verify any conflict of interest. In the event that new information surfaces indicating otherwise, World Press Photo retains the discretion to determine the appropriate course of action.
Entries for the 2025 World Press Photo Contest are now closed. To hear who wins, where you can see the exhibitions and more, sign up for our newsletter.
