color portrait photo of young Chin resistant in Myanmar by Robin Tutenges

Visual Story Award Editors’ Picks of February 2025

Following the results of last month’s Visual Story Award—judged by former National Geographic Senior Editor, Elizabeth Krist—the editorial team is delighted to showcase a selection of competition entries that, while not making the final cut, are nonetheless well deserving of recognition.

A young Chin resistance fighter hides beneath tall bushes of white wildflowers as a Burmese military convoy passes by. In Amman, Jordan, two longtime friends—and their feathered companion—escape the afternoon heat with a game of backgammon. Tonga’s only recorded pure white humpback whale glides gracefully through the South Pacific waters, her mother glued to her side.

These striking images underscore the enduring power of photographic storytelling, capturing some of the complex stories that shape our world today.

Published March 17, 2025 - Congratulations to all selected artists: Xavier Ayme, Jeroen Nieuwhuis, Chan Kim, Jono Allen, Laurin Strele, Myriam Aadli, Savadmon Avalachamveettil, Robin Tutenges, Woo Jung Choi, Eleonora Costi,

Call for entries

black and white street photo of man being shaved on the street in China by Jian Wang
© Jian Wang
2025 Street Photography AWARD

Win $2700 Cash Awards & International Exposure

This September, we’re challenging you to capture powerful and inspiring urban stories. Acclaimed Magnum photographer Bruce Gilden will be judging the entries, and we’re excited to see your most compelling images.

 

  • Win $2700 in Cash Prizes
  • International Exhibition
  • +920k Instagram Feature
  • Free Online Portfolio

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