By virtue of submitting a photographic image into a CAPA Competition, the photographer asserts and agrees that:
- For the purposes of our competitions, a photographic image is defined “as being a captured image on a light-sensitive device (e.g. film camera, digital camera, smartphone, tablet, etc…) and recorded on film or in a digital format.”
- Images that have been created or modified using specific AI generative techniques are not permitted for submission into our competitions. This includes:
In-painting (where AI fills in generated elements not captured by the photographer or removes and replaces elements from a photograph with AI-generated content);
Out-painting (where AI extends beyond the original boundaries of the photograph using generated elements); and
Image-to-image AI (where AI transforms an entire photograph based on text prompts or style references)
Text-to-image (where images are generated from scratch based on text entered into a prompt description)
These restrictions apply whether or not text prompts are used in the AI generation process.
- All parts of the submitted image are the creator’s original work, containing no elements produced or captured by others; therefore, they hold and retain the copyright for the image. It’s acceptable to draw inspiration from other photographers or artists. However, if the inspiration results in similarities in colour, composition, elements, perspective, angle, subject, and tone to the original, then the work is not considered the photographer’s original creation.
- Image(s) featuring graffiti or street art are eligible for our competition ONLY when they demonstrate substantial creative input beyond mere documentation, such as unique perspective, composition, inclusion of external elements or context that transforms the viewer’s experience.
- Capturing screen images or photographs from the internet for use in a composite is prohibited. The photographer must do their own post-processing, with the exception of negative scanning and printing.
- The image must not violate any Canadian laws. CAPA and prize sponsors are not liable for any claims arising from the competition outcome or legal/regulatory violations.
- The photographer indemnifies CAPA and sponsors against losses from any third-party intellectual property infringement. CAPA accepts no liability for copyright or trademark breaches by the entrant.
- CAPA may use the image for non-commercial purposes like exhibitions, publications, promotions, and education. Permission will be sought before including the image in international competitions.
- Substantially identical images may not be entered in the same competition category, as both a club and individual submission, or in subsequent competitions if previously awarded. Slight variations are still considered the same image. An image that has been rotated, flipped, re-formatted or converted to monochrome or infrared will be deemed substantially the same image.
- Not place identifying text, their signature or any other distinctive mark on the front or facing side of any submitted image.
- Trademarks are allowed if not likely to mislead viewers about sponsorship.
By the act of submitting an image to a CAPA competition, the photographer agrees to the following:
- CAPA reserves the right to withdraw their image before, during and shortly after the commencement of judging, if it has been found to have failed to meet the conditions of the competition.
- The decisions and scores provided by the Judging Panel are final and cannot be appealed.
- No replacement image will be permitted after the judging process has commenced.
