Theme 2026
spark of evolution
“The essential impulse that drives beings, systems, or ideas to adapt, improve, or transform over time.”
31 Aug 2026
Submission Deadline
52 Nations
Worldwide Participation
photocup@mensa.org
Official Contact
◉PhotoCup
Individual
◈PhotoOlimpic
National Teams
◆Best Story
New Category
Competition Categories
Every photograph carries the Spark of Evolution — the moment transformation reveals itself through the lens.
Best Story Award
A short story behind your favourite image — context, emotion, evolution.
Best Artistic Composition
Visual mastery: light, geometry, and form in perfect harmony.
Social Impact Award
Photography that sparks change and speaks to the human condition.
Best B&W Image
The timeless power of light and shadow stripped of colour.
Event Timeline
Open
Submission window opens. Photos must be taken from 1 Jan 2026.
Submit
Enter via your NM coordinator or directly as DIP. Up to 3 photos.
MI Deadline
All NM entries must reach Mensa International by 12:00 UK time.
Düsseldorf
Winners announced at IBD+ Meeting. PhotOlympics champions crowned.
Mensa PhotOlympics 2026
Each national Mensa's top 3 photographers (winner + 2 runners-up) enter as a national team. The NM team with the highest aggregate score wins Gold — plus a trophy, framed certificate, and prizes presented at the Düsseldorf IBD+ Meeting in October.
A Global Collaborative Effort
Mensa PhotoPlatform connects 140,000+ members across 52 national Mensas. Our platform ensures fair, blind judging and professional-grade file management.
52
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4.2k
Last Year Entries
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