Established in 1978, the W. Eugene Smith Grant in Humanistic Photography rewards a documentary photographer with a $30,000 grant to carry out or complete major photographic essays that document the human condition "with compassion and integrity".

Photographers are invited to submit between 20 and 40 images, as well as a resume and a written proposal that outlines the humanistic approach to their work. Entrants must also affirm that their proposed project is ongoing.

Last year, the grant was awarded to Darcy Padilla whose intimate photo documentary The Julie Project highlighted the devastating long term effects of poverty and AIDS in American society. Previous winners also include Carl De Keyzer, Paul Graham, Stanley Greene, Brenda Ann Kenneally, Gideon Mendel, James Nachtwey, Trent Parke, Paolo Pellegrin, Eugene Richards, Sebastião Salgado and Kai Wiedenhofer among many others.

Entry to the contest is free. For more information, and to enter before 31 May, visit
the Eugene Smith Fund website.