Real moments. No retakes. No editing required.

Ever captured something so perfectly timed, so beautifully framed, or with lighting so good that editing it would almost feel like cheating?

That's exactly the kind of creative magic we're looking for.

This challenge is all about capturing something great without relying on editing to get you there. No filters, no retouching, no spending three hours adjusting the colors. Just you, your camera, and a little creative thinking.

We're challenging you to put your editing skills aside and focus on what happens before you press the button. Play with natural light, experiment with framing, find unexpected angles, and look for interesting details others might miss. Sometimes all it takes is a different perspective, a perfectly timed moment, or knowing exactly when to press the shutter.

Whether you're experimenting with shadows, finding patterns in unexpected places, or capturing a genuine expression when someone least expects it, show us what you can create when you get it right in camera.

Two winners will each score a Homepage Highlight, giving their work a special spotlight on Pexels for several days and the chance to be seen by millions worldwide.

IDEAS TO INSPIRE YOU

* Experiment with natural light, from golden hour glow and dramatic shadows to soft window light
* Play with unusual angles and perspectives. Get low, look up, move closer, or find a completely different viewpoint
* Look for interesting patterns, textures, colors, and shapes that make a photo stand out
* Get creative with framing. Use doorways, windows, architecture, or objects to draw attention to your subject
* Capture candid moments between people, from genuine laughter and unexpected reactions to those little interactions that happen when nobody's posing
* Find beauty in the details. Get close, fill the frame, and make something ordinary look extraordinary
* Try shooting on film for unique texture and character, no edits needed
* Play with symmetry, leading lines, and negative space to create visually striking photos
* Film interesting movements, camera angles, and transitions in a single take

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU

* Challenge yourself to create great photos and videos using nothing but your eye, timing, and creativity
* Get your work seen by a global community of creatives, brands, and storytellers
* Show the world what makes your creative perspective unique
* Help others tell more authentic stories with real photos and videos from real people
* Get the chance to earn recognition for your creativity and grow your reach on Pexels

HOW TO ENTER

1.  Capture interesting compositions and candid moments in photos or videos, using your camera or phone
2.  Keep your work unedited. No filters, retouching, or post-production tricks. Let your framing, lighting, and timing do the work
3.  Share your work using the "Join the Challenge" button on this page
4.  Submit as many photos and videos as you like before the deadline

Deadline: November 1, 11:59 PM UTC

Homepage Highlight

No filters, no edits. Just clever compositions, perfect timing, and candid moments.

Real moments. No retakes. No editing required.

Ever captured something so perfectly timed, so beautifully framed, or with lighting so good that editing it would almost feel like cheating?

The Unedited Challenge

A woman stands in a lush green field, surrounded by rolling hills and forests, enjoying nature's serenity.

Woman Walking Through Tall Grass on a Hillside

Elegant arched windows in a historic room with a checkered floor. Bright light streaming in creates a contrast.

Arched Glass Windows with Black and White Tiled Floor

Experience a serene drive through Italy's scenic alpine roads with mountain views.

Scenic Alpine Highway Drive Through Italy

Silhouette of trees framing a serene sunset view over the water in Tunis, Tunisia.

View of a Mountain and the Sea from Between Silhouetted Tree Branches 

A quaint Japanese coffee shop with vending machines on a sunny city street.

The Unedited Challenge

Prize

The Unedited Challenge

About this Challenge

Where your photos and videos meet the world