The $30,000 grant for documentary photography is presented once a year to a photographer whose proposed project follows the tradition of Eugene Smith's. The American photo essayist was renowned for his compassion and concern for documenting the human condition. The award was established after his death in 1978.

To apply for the grant, photographers need to register online and pay a $50 fee. The application must include a written proposal no longer than two pages.

A three-member international jury will meet twice to determine who receives the grant, which will be awarded at a ceremony in New York City in October. Finalists will be chosen largely based on the merit of their project. Only finalists will be asked to submit a comprehensive photographic print portfolio.

The recipient of the grant will have his or her images displayed as part of the W. Eugene Smith Legacy Collection at the International Center of Photography in New York.

Applications for the grant can be made at smithfund.nielsencontests.com.