Thames Lens: Submission

We’re delighted to be part of Thames Lens again this year, inviting the public to capture and share their experience of the river through short videos or film. This year’s theme, ‘People and Places’, encourages entrants to explore the Illuminated River artwork, the iconic bridges and those quieter moments when people pause to take in the light, colour and atmosphere along the Thames. We’re intrigued to see how you interpret the river through moving image and look forward to enjoying the videos and films created for 2027.

Richard Dye, Chief Operating Officer, Illuminated River Foundation

The Thames is one of the world's great rivers, supporting trade, travel, wildlife and communities along its entire length. Through Thames Lens, we're inviting people to share their own unique perspective on the river, whether that's its working life, its natural environment, or the people and places that make it so special. We look forward to seeing the creativity and talent this year's competition will uncover.

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 2027!

Adrian Evans CVO, Director, Thames Festival Trust

Key Information

Themes

• 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. 
• 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.
• 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.
• Illuminated River & The Public: Short Film Round: Illuminated River is the longest public art commission in the world, spanning nine bridges from London to Lambeth, that has transformed the Thames at night. This year’s theme is centred around ‘People and Places’. Share your favourite views of the artwork including people, the bridges, and moments where the public have paused to soak up the atmosphere, light and colours along the Thames.

Submission Information

• Deadline: 12 noon Sunday 10 January 2027.
• Enter by: submitting the form below
• You can submit a maximum of 5 short films / photos over the 6 categories.
• Please read the Terms and Conditions carefully before entering