Thames Lens: Photo Submission

For centuries, the Thames has been a muse for painters, poets, and in more recent times, photographers, filmmakers, and digital creators. It is the heart of the city, framed by iconic landmarks and alive with stories from throughout history. By day it inspires reflection and memory; by night it dazzles with striking beauty. We’re delighted to introduce this new Thames Lens category which embraces the evolving ways we experience media and will help to capture the subtle play of light across the bridges and the powerful ways people connect with the installation.

Sarah Gaventa, Trustee, Illuminated River Foundation

Each year, Thames Lens photographers find new ways to capture the distinctiveness of the tidal Thames - home to the UK’s biggest port, diverse communities and unique natural habitats. We’re delighted to be supporting Thames Lens again this year. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the river and our Thames Vision 2050 goal of attracting more people to use and enjoy this special blue space.

Siân Foster, Director of Corporate Affairs, PLA

As a subject matter for creative photography, the river is a gift which keeps on giving. Every day, it offers a multitude of different perspectives as it winds its way through our great capital city. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Thames Lens 2026!

Adrian Evans CVO, Director, Thames Festival Trust

Key Information

Themes

• Photojournalism: Capture hidden narratives of the river through a single or a series of images. We will be looking for stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
• River City: The stunning landscape of the Thames presents dramatic and evocative perspectives on the city as it winds its way from West to East.
• River of Life: The River Thames is home to hundreds of species of fish and having been considered biologically dead is now seeing a resurgence of animal and plant activity. Seals, birds, and more love to call the Thames their home.
• River People: One of the factors that makes the Thames so vibrant is how people interact with it on different levels. From calling it home, to using it for water sports, and even working on it – people bring the river to life: the perfect subject for a photo.
• Working River: London is home to the UK’s largest port, helping to make the Thames the busiest river in England for transporting freight, and for passengers, both seeing the sights and commuting to work. These industries are vital for London’s economy and form an important part of the Thames’ rich river tapestry.
• Illuminated River Video Category: With video becoming one of the most powerful ways we consume and share stories, this new category marks a bold step forward, allowing new ways for all photographers and videographers to engage with the Illuminated River bridges. Spanning nine bridges from London Bridge to Lambeth Bridge, Illuminated River is the world’s longest public art commission. An orchestrated series of artworks using LED lights brings the city’s bridges to life, transforming the River Thames at night. Videos must be 2.5 minutes max in length and can be taken on any device. Entrants are encouraged to demonstrate artistic creativity and imagination.
• Under 30? Tick the box in the submission form below and be in with the chance to win a special extra prize.

Submission Information

• Deadline: Friday 9 January 2026
• Enter by: submitting the form below
• Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully before entering