Terms &
Conditions
Please read these rules carefully before submitting your entries. The Mensa PhotoCup is governed by the principles of artistic integrity and intellectual honesty.
Eligibility
You must be a current Mensa member in good standing and remain so for the duration of the competition. When submitting, you must include your full name, membership number, e-mail address, and the title(s) of your photo(s).
Image Specifications
Submit up to 3 photos maximum. Each photo must be in JPG/JPEG format, have a resolution of 150 DPI or higher, and not exceed 10 MB. No watermarks, signatures, labels, or symbols are permitted on the image. EXIF data is required for each submission.
Originality, Editing & AI
AI-generated images are strictly prohibited — any such entry will be disqualified and the member banned from future competitions. Only 'Global Editing' is allowed: cropping, reframing, colour correction, brightness, exposure, contrast, saturation, sharpness. Removing objects, masking, selective edits, or any AI-powered editing tool is not permitted. Photos must have been taken on or after 1 January 2026.
Copyright & Licence
You retain full copyright of your work. By entering, you grant Mensa International Ltd. a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive licence to use, reproduce, publish, and distribute your images for competition promotion — on websites, social media, newsletters, exhibitions, and Mensa events. No financial compensation is provided.
Conduct & Promotion
Any promotion of your entries — by yourself or others on your behalf — is not permitted. This is a photo contest, not a photo story competition: do not submit a series of images intended to be viewed in a specific order. Each image must independently reflect the theme 'Spark of Evolution'.
Frequent Questions
How many entries can I submit?
Each member can submit up to 3 photos maximum.
Is there a capture date limit?
Yes. Photos must have been taken on or after 1 January 2026. Pre-dated images will be disqualified. If you use a digital camera, ensure the date is set correctly before shooting.
What is EXIF data and why is it required?
EXIF data is metadata embedded in your photo file recording camera settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO, date/time, etc.). It is required to ensure fair and accurate judging. Refer to the EXIF Data Instructions document available in your NM entry pack.
Who judges the international competition?
All entries are judged blind by the Mensa International PhotoCup jury — they do not know which NM juries have already selected as their top 3. This ensures equal opportunity for all participants worldwide.
What is the Mensa PhotOlympics?
Each national Mensa's top 3 (winner + 2 runners-up) enter as a national team. The NM team with the highest aggregate score wins Gold, with Silver and Bronze for 2nd and 3rd place. Prizes and trophies are presented at the Düsseldorf IBD+ Meeting in October 2026.
Ready to Contribute?
Ensure your files meet all requirements before proceeding to the upload panel.
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