Win a free trip to Iceland by proving that you're a terrible photographer

Jeff Keller is not eligible for this campaign, since he's far from a bad photographer. Photo: Jeff Keller

Companies typically look for high-quality photographs for marketing materials, but Icelandair is taking a different approach this time. The airline's most recent campaign is instead focused entirely on "bad photographers," offering up a free trip and an additional financial prize for the worst of the worst.

Icelandair recently launched a campaign seeking "the worst photographer" to prove that even bad photographers can capture beautiful images of Iceland. According to the website, winners will receive a 10-day trip to Iceland, with travel expenses paid and the chance for their images to be used in a global ad campaign. The free trip isn't all selected participants get, either. They could also win $50,000.

Naturally, there are some specific requirements. You have to be someone with no professional background in photography, and no "special" interest in learning photography. The company also specifies that you should be "frequently disappointed with your own photos." Despite all that, you also need to be prepared to have your photographs displayed internationally.

The application process is simple. You just have to convince Icelandair that you are a bad photographer and can speak English.

The application process includes a brief questionnaire that asks about your photography skills, whether you share on social media while traveling and whether you're comfortable being in front of a camera. There's also an option to upload a 60-second video to explain why you are the worst photographer, though it isn't required.

I'm sure no one here in our DPReview community would be eligible. But just in case you think you are, or you know someone who chronically takes bad photos, no matter how much guidance you try to provide, applications are open through April 30. Just a word of caution: if you're sharing this contest with someone specific, it may require a bit more tact than just sending a link and saying "saw this and thought of you!"