categories.
Landscape
This is the category that will showcase the most stunning natural locations and landmarks of the Gold Coast, from the hinterland to the beach and everything in between.
This category extends to show our amazing Gold Coast landscapes from North Straddie to Mt. Tamborine and along the entire GC coastline.
*Photo compositing will be accepted in this category for technical purposes.
Surf & Waves
The Gold Coast is home to some of the most powerful beach breaks and points in the world. Declared in 2019 as a World Surfing Reserve, this category opens the opportunity to present your best work from the best waves, swells and surfing photos you have ever taken here.
GC Lifestyle
The Gold Coast lifestyle is vibrant by day and by night! There’s so much to portray about the Gold Coast; our surf life saving culture, the healthy lifestyle along our vibrant beach esplanades, the music scene, the food, the nightlife, the festivals and the faces of locals that make the our coastal city incredibly unique, diverse and a welcoming hub for everyone!
Creative
This is an open category with no limits on style or approach. It invites photographers to experiment, interpret, and express ideas in their own way - blending imagination, emotion, and visual storytelling. Anything that steps beyond the ordinary and reflects a creative vision belongs here.
Single-exposure and photo-composite images are both accepted.
Underwater
In this category we are going to go deep; from ocean humans to underwater species and unique coexistence moments; we want to see what you see below the Gold Coast! Creativity and also natural, spontaneous photographs will be considered.
This category extends to show our amazing underwater world from North Straddie to Byron Bay allowing our talented underwater community to share their incredible work on our local spots.
Nature & Wildlife
This category celebrates everything alive in Nature, wildlife in its natural habitat, from animals to ecosystems, whether it’s an intimate portrait, an action-packed moment, or a breathtaking scene that tells a story; we’re looking for images that showcase the true spirit of the natural world.
This category extends from North Straddie to Byron Bay considering migratory species al local spots.
Ethical photography practices are encouraged—entries should respect the welfare of the animals and their environment.
Action Camera
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The Action Camera category celebrates raw energy, spontaneity and natural excitement that only action-packed visuals can deliver. Whether it’s the spray of a wave caught mid-air, a rider flying down a trail, the feeling of pure stoke or an urban moment bursting with movement, this category invites entries captured on any type of action cameras and 360° devices that push the boundaries of storytelling in motion.
Show us your most dynamic perspectives, bold compositions and moments that transport the viewer right into the heart of the action.
judging criteria.
The judging criteria of The Gold Coast Photography Awards will be based on six principals:
1. Technical Excellence (focus, lighting, compositions, colour)
2. Artistic Merit (creative, mood, storytelling)
3. Category impact
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Landscape: Majestic scenery, dramatic skies, and environmental connection.
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Surf & Waves: Energy, motion, and the dynamic relationship between water and its surroundings.
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Creative: Innovative techniques, abstract concepts, or unusual perspectives.
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Lifestyle: Authenticity, connection, and capturing moments of human experience.
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Underwater: Perspective and the unique beauty of the subject, marine life or ecosystem.
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Wildlife: Behavior, habitat interaction, and ethical considerations in capturing animals in their natural state.
4. Emotional & Visual Impact
5. Ethical. This competition won't accept any type of AI modifications or AI creations.
6. Overall Appeal. Judges will look for images that stand out and showcase the photographer’s unique voice and vision. Each photo will be scored across these criteria, and top entries in each category will reflect not only technical and artistic mastery but also creativity and a connection to the theme.