Technology is often portrayed as sterile, isolating, and cold. At Rest of World, we know that technology thrives alongside humanity, often being used in novel ways and under surprising circumstances. Our 2026 photo contest seeks to celebrate its creative uses in the regions where you live.

We want to see your images of technology’s impact and hear the stories behind them. Based on the popularity of last year’s contest, we are now offering three categories of focus:

Surprising screens

Show us your screens being used in very remote or unusual places, or how screens are being used in unexpected ways.

Inherited innovation

We want to see how older technology is still being used, especially if it includes DIY hacks, repair kiosks, or unique uses.

Member’s choice

Our members will pick the best technology photos from the submissions. Want to become a member? Join us !

The contest is open to photographers of any skill level, living and working in any part of the world. Each photographer may enter a single image made within the last two years. The contest is open for entries until midnight GMT on February 28, 2026.

We’re asking you to include a detailed description of the photograph you’re submitting, including where and when it was taken, and what the scene shows. Help us understand the larger context in which the photograph shows technology’s impact in your community.

Rest of World will review the submissions and select 15 images as finalists in each category. A winner and an honorable mention will be selected by members and a judging panel. The first-place winner in each category will be awarded a $750 cash prize. The honorable mention in each category will receive a $250 cash prize.

See the winner of our 2025 contest here.