Call Description

In the Practice of Seeing. This suggests that photography is not merely a tool of representation, but an active process of perception and a process of refining a vision. The title underscores the idea that seeing is never passive: it is shaped by attention, context, memory, and cultural framework.  It speaks to how vision is never neutral, but always practiced — shaped by who we are, what we notice, and what we choose to attend to. Photography has often been celebrated for its ability to capture reality, yet it is equally powerful in shaping how reality is perceived.  

Hosted by Jacksonville State University. Jacksonville, AL

Juror 

James “Jim” Reiman is a photographer, designer, and educator whose work explores identity, transformation, and the visual language of pop culture. He is currently an Assistant Professor of Photography and Graphic Design at Valdosta State University and the creator and host of the Focus Stacked podcast. 

Reiman’s photographic and video practice spans fine art, portraiture, and collaborative commercial projects with wrestlers, actors, cosplayers, filmmakers, and creative brands. His approach blends traditional techniques with emerging technologies, emphasizing craft, experimentation, and strong visual storytelling. 

He earned a BFA in Photography and Digital Imaging from Central Washington University and an MFA from the University of South Florida. Reiman has taught at institutions across the country and remains actively involved in professional organizations and arts communities that support creative growth and innovation. 

Awards 

Professional/College (18+) Category

• First Prize: $500
• Second Prize: $300
• Third Prize: $100

Important Dates 

Call Opens: April 6, 2026

Call Closes: July 6, 2026 

Jurying Completed: July 17, 2026

Acceptance Announcements: No later than July 20, 2026

Artwork Delivery Deadline: August 14, 2026

Exhibition Dates: August 27 – September 24, 2026 (Manners Gallery at Hammond Hall, Jacksonville State University) 

Application Requirements

• Cost for submission is $20.00
• Artists may submit up to 3 images per entry. Minimum1200px on the longest side, no larger than 5MB. JPEG
• All entries must be submitted via the CAFE Call for Entry
• Accepted work must arrive ready to hang or display.
• Photographs must be labeled clearly with artist name, title, and contact information on back.
• Framed work should use secure hanging hardware.
• The gallery reserves the right to reject work that differs significantly from the submitted images or that is not up to display standards.

Eligibility Criteria

This exhibition is open to professional and college level photographer ages 18+

This national juried exhibition is open to photographers working in all photographic processes, including digital, film, alternative processes, mixed media incorporating photography, and photographic installations. (There is a separate, free call for high school students 13-17 that will open MAY 1 titled "In the Practice of Seeing-National High School Photography Section")

Image Origin Requirement


All entries must originate from a photographic source — a camera-based capture or a recognized cameraless photographic method (photograms, cyanotypes, wet plate, etc.).

AI-assisted editing or manipulation is acceptable only when applied to an original photographic image.

AI-generated imagery produced without a photographic origin (e.g., text-to-image generators) is not permitted.

Shipping & Delivery 

Accepted work must be shipped or delivered by August 14. 

Artists are responsible for round-trip shipping. Shipped items must include a return packing slip. 

 Liability 

The gallery will take reasonable care in handling artwork but cannot assume responsibility for damage or loss. Artists are encouraged to insure their own work.