Photo Contest: Gather – The Power of Place-based Connection

City spaces provide an unparalleled backdrop for planned and chance human encounters and exchanges that sustain and propel society forward. Whether in grand public squares, intimate cafés, bustling markets, neighborhood parks or civic halls, urban spaces remain the heartbeat of human interaction. In this era of digital saturation and increased isolation, the need to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate moments has never been more profound. This year, as they celebrate their 20th anniversary, they also celebrate the essential role cities play in bringing people together.

Submit your best photos or videos (1 minute or less) that capture how cities bring people together: To learn. To connect. To celebrate. To play. To indulge. To protest. To care. To grow. To move. To transform.

Prize Information

• A prize of $500 will be awarded to the top submission as determined by a panel of Penn-affiliated judges. Other exemplary submissions will be awarded Honorable Mentions.

Eligibility Criteria

• The contest is open to the public.

Application Requirements

• Photographers should submit no more than 3 photographs/videos.
• All photos must be your original work, not AI generated. Collage, cropping, and use of software such as Photoshop is permitted.
• Submissions that fail to meet ethical standards will not be considered.

For more information, visit Penn Institute for Urban Research.