2026 NYC Photography Challenge

Welcome to the 2026 Festival Photography Challenge!

This year, we’re turning the lens back on our own community. We’re inviting you to capture the Spirit of the Festival—the raw energy, the behind-the-scenes hustle, and the shared passion that makes AAHSFF the premiere event for young filmmakers.

The Challenge: As you navigate the screenings, workshops, and red carpets, keep your camera ready for the moments that define our festival. Look for the intense focus of a filmmaker during a Q&A, the spontaneous collaboration between new friends in the lobby, or the electric atmosphere of the AMC Empire 25. Whether it’s a candid shot of a peer in action or the vibrant glow of the Times Square lights reflecting off our posters, capture the pulse of the 2026 experience.

How to Submit:
Create a photography project on FilmFreeway, fill out the submission form, and upload your best images to the challenge when it goes live.

  • Submissions Open: Monday, November 2nd, 2026

  • Deadline: Friday, November 13th, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST

  • Winner Announced: Thursday, November 19th, 2026

Learn more: www.hsfilmfest.com/2026-nyc-photo-challenge

 
 

Rules and Guidelines:

IMPORTANT: Student participants will be representing their school, community, and AAHSFF while taking photos throughout NYC. We expect all participants to conduct themselves in a mature and respectful manner.

  • You may shoot on either a smartphone, digital camera or traditional camera (or any combination of these devices).

  • You can take as many photos as you wish throughout your weekend in NYC. However, you will only submit 3 photos.

  • Submissions will be open directly following the competition via our website hsfilmfest.com under the “competitions” tab. 

  • There are no restrictions for editing submission photos, but keep in mind that often, less is more.

  • All photos must be submitted as JPEG files specifically titled in the following format:

    • FullName_Photo1.JPEG

    • FullName_Photo2.JPEG

    • FullName_Photo3.JPEG

  • Our judges will select one winning photographer (based on the collection of all 3 photos).

  • Our judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

    • Communication/Expression of the overall theme

    • Originality/Creativity

    • Sense of Story

    • Overall Artistic Impression

      • Composition/Design

      • Color, Lighting, Exposure, and Focus

    • Entertainment/Wow Factor!

  • The Prize:

    • The winner will receive a comprehensive prize package including:

      • Featured placement on all festival social media channels.

      • A festival swag package.

      • Bragging rights!!!