About the Contest

To Apply

Main Rules

Awards

RULES

Photo Contest

Apply to Contest

About the Contest

The Cosplay Photo Contest is a fun event where photographers and cosplayers work together to bring favorite characters to life with amazing photos. It shows off the creativity in costumes, makeup, and photography. Participants share their skills, the audience votes for their favorites, and a professional jury chooses the winners. Whether you’re new to cosplay or experienced, it’s a great chance to shine and win prizes!

To Apply

1) Fill in an online application form stating all the required information on character, model, and photographer. The deadline is 03.08.2025 23:59. 
2) After receiving mail with confirmation that you are selected, bring the prints to UniCon Cafe before 13.08.2025 (end of working time) or on the first day of the event 15.08.2025 (till 13:00) at Info Stand.
3) You will be able to get back your photos at the end of the 3rd day at Info stand or in the following weeks at UniCon cafe.

Main Rules

1) All photos must be original work, taken by the entrants (photographers) or submitted by models present on the photos.
2) Entries must be family-friendly: photos may not contain any sexual content, indecent gestures or poses, calls to violence, or forbidden symbols.
3) Photos must be submitted in JPEG or PNG format, with a minimum width resolution of 1500 pixels, and should be printed out on photo paper no smaller than A4 size.
4) Photoshop and other editing tools may be used to add visual effects and enhance image quality (such as lighting, color correction, and sharpness). However, you are not allowed to use AI or combine multiple photos into one (such as comic-style layouts). Major alterations like changing costumes or significantly modifying the character’s appearance are also not allowed.
5) Photos must be sent to us via online application form and approved by our committee to be valid. Photos cannot be changed after they are approved without notice of our committee. If something needs to be changed, please contact us via email. Please carefully read instructions in a form and fill in accordingly.
6) Photos that have been submitted in previous Cosplay Photo contests, originate from photoshoots previously entered, or closely resemble prior submissions are not eligible for participation.
7) One photographer cannot submit more than 3 photos; one model cannot appear in more than 3 photos. Submissions that were not agreed upon between the model and the photographer, will not be accepted and will not be exhibited at the event.
8) In case both photographer and models decide to participate in the contest separately, each can submit photos from the same photoshoot, however, the same photo cannot be used by both model and photographer.
9) Duo/group application is limited to 3 group photos, and if individual photos are submitted, one person still can appear only on 3 photos in total.
10) By sending us photos, you confirm that the participation in the UniCon 2025 Cosplay Photo Contest is confirmed by both the photographer and the model. If photos are sent without consent of any party – the person who sends photos won't be accepted for the next contest and photos won't be displayed at the event. 
11) If an application was approved, but the participant failed to bring photos without prior notice within a given term, this application is disqualified for this event and the participant is not allowed to participate in the next event.
12) By joining the competition, you agree that photos may be used for UniCon/ WinterCon advertisement purposes.
13) Photos of previous year's competitions may be displayed in a gallery.
14) By submitting your application, you agree to follow the Photo Cosplay Contest rules.​The works that were approved and brought to us on time will be displayed at UniCon 2025, 15,16 and 17th of August 2025.
15) Any entry that violates the rules or engages in dishonest behavior may be disqualified without notice.

Awards

All entries will be evaluated by a professional jury based on photo composition, use of effects (if applicable), and overall impact. The top 3 photos will be awarded prizes. Additionally, audiences at the event will have the opportunity to pick their favourite photo and this work will also be rewarded by a separate prize. Please note that only one prize will be awarded per group/duo winners..

In case you have additional questions, please contact us by photocosplay@unicon.lv