James Balog Earth Vision Awards

Overview

The James Balog Earth Vision Awards (JBEVA) are biennial juried prizes that support photographers responding to complex environmental issues through their work. Photography is recognized as a uniquely powerful medium that shapes environmental attitudes, perceptions, and values.

Key Dates

• September 1, 2026: Call for proposals opens
• October 1, 2026: Call for proposals closes
• January 2027: Award winners announced
• March 2027: Award presentations at Denver Art Museum

Eligibility

• Open to photographers worldwide
• Must be 21 years of age or older at time of submission
• May apply as individuals or collectives (not both)
• May only submit once per round
• Previous winners and finalists are ineligible for future rounds

Awards

• First prize: $40,000 ($30,000 at award time and $10,000 twelve to eighteen months later)
• Finalist: $25,000 ($19,000 at award time and $6,000 twelve to eighteen months later)

Media & Requirements

• Portfolio of 10-20 environmental photographs
• Concise artist statement (~500 words) describing first-hand experience with locations/subjects and their environmental significance
• Concise project proposal (~500 words) explaining work you hope to do with the award and its anticipated impact
• Resume or list of exhibitions, publications, public lectures, and/or reviews

Judging Criteria

A three-member jury of expert photo professionals will review entries. Images may be literal and documentary or symbolic and interpretive. The jury will not consider fabricated photographs, photographs involving cloning, excessive color manipulation, or AI-generated content.