a photo competition for publication

Enter the Wedding Photographer of the Year Competition

Join us in recognizing the artistry and skill of wedding photographers who capture the magic of love stories. Compete for the title of Wedding Photographer of the Year and showcase your talent to the world.

About the Competition

The Styled Shoots by Southern Bride | Wedding Photographer of the Year Competition

Dare to be named the best.

The Styled Shoots by Southern Bride Wedding Photographer of the Year Competition is not just an accolade—it’s a career-defining moment. Hosted by Southern Bride Magazine, this prestigious competition honors the most captivating, emotionally resonant, and artfully composed wedding photography in the industry.

Photographers are invited to submit their standout work—images that tell a love story with heart and vision. Judged by Southern Bride editors, leading wedding photographers, and our engaged online audience, this is your chance to earn recognition from the people who matter most.

Winners receive:

  • Featured placement in Southern Bride Magazine

  • Exclusive media exposure across SouthernBride.com and social media

  • Peer and industry recognition that sets your work apart

But this is more than a competition—it’s a showcase, a spotlight, and a springboard. It’s your moment to connect with the best in the business and elevate your name in the world of weddings.

Submit. Shine. Be Seen.
Your next chapter begins here.

Competition Categories

Engagement

Getting Ready

Letter Exchange

Wedding Party

Bride/Bridesmaids

Groom/Groomsmen

First-Look

Ceremony

Exit

Reception

First-Dance

Cake Cutting

Bride Portrait

Groom Portrait

Couple Portrait

Submission Guidelines

Application Requirements for Contest Entry

To participate in the Styled Shoots by Southern Bride contest:

  • Photographers must submit their work through our online portal along with the submission fee
  • All images should be 300dpi and labeled with the photographer’s name and category ex.JaneDoePhotography_CouplePortrait
  • Submissions must be original and not previously published
  • No text or watermarks of any kind on the image
  • Deadlines for Submissions:
    • March 1
    • May 1
    • August 1
    • November 1
  • Images received after deadlines will automatically be moved to the next deadline.

Judging Criteria

How Submissions Will Be Evaluated

Our panel of esteemed judges will evaluate each submission based on creativity, technical skill, and adherence to the chosen category theme. Judges will also consider the emotional impact of the images and the photographer’s ability to tell a compelling story through their work. Each category will be scored independently, and the top three submissions will be selected based on the highest overall scores. Judges’ decisions are final and will be announced on our website.

Celebrating Past Winners

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  • All 1st Place winners will be featured in Southern Bride Magazine
  • 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners will be featured on SouthernBride.com
  • A badge of distinction that states you are the Top Photographer of the Year 2025
  • Recognition as one of the Top Wedding Photographers across the globe

Enter the Wedding Photographer of the Year Contest

Showcase your talent and gain recognition by entering the Styled SHOOTS by Southern Bride’s prestigious contest. Submit your application now to stand a chance to be among the top photographers of the year!

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