About Call

The Kuala Lumpur International Photoawards [KLPA] is an annual global portrait photography prize seeking the very best and fresh entries from photographers of all levels. Initiated in 2009, KLPA is recognised as a significant and vital award in the photography calendar, supporting and rewarding contemporary portraiture practice especially in the South East Asian region. This INTERIM EDITION invites submissions to the theme AUTOPORTRAIT, with the top 3 winners receiving $1,000, £500 and $250 each. All top 30 finalists will also have their portraits screened at our international partner festivals in 2024/2025. An exhibition is planned at Hin Bus Depot in George Town, Penang, Malaysia in 2025. All top 30 finalists will also have their portraits screened at our international partner festivals Photolux, Italy and Auckland Festival of Photography, New Zealand, and others.

Since the formation of KLPA in 2009, our annual themes have consistently explored the outward gaze of photographers. The portrait subject is nearly always in front of the photographer. In this edition of AUTOPORTRAIT, we turn our gaze inwards to face the camera, photographing ourselves, as provocateur, protagonist, director and subject all at once.

Impress the judges with originality, experimentation and personal expression. Some of the most influential self-portrait artists of the time have chosen different paths to portray themselves. From the experimental and avant-garde styles of Claude Cahun and Man Ray to the whimsical and surreal portraits of Francesca Woodman, self-portraiture can delve deep into the photographer's psyche to reveal strengths or frailties that might otherwise be suppressed.

Open to all photographers in all genres, we hope to elevate the art of self-portraiture beyond the selfie.