LifeShots

The 2026 Lifeshots Contest is NOW OPEN!

The 2026 LifeShots contest closes on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

This year marks the 14th annual Photo Contest, and the first year the event will be held exclusively in a virtual format! All submissions will be viewable and voted on through the Annual Meeting mobile app. 

The 2026 LifeShots Photo Contest is supported by the Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center at Columbia University. 

The Academy has created a photo contest to feature a one-of-a-kind gallery that will inspire all viewers to overcome their many challenges.

What We're Looking For...

Photos of individuals affected by cerebral palsy and other childhood-onset disabilities in the midst of doing what they enjoy or completing a basic task or celebrating a major accomplishment. The photos can contain family members and care providers but we must have a photo release for each person in the photo.

Then, include a title that is unique to the ability being highlighted in the photo. The title/phrase will be mounted next to the photo.

The Academy will select the top photos for display at the AACPDM 80th Annual Meeting. The top three submissions will be recognized upon the conclusion of the meeting.

There is a limit of two (2) submissions per person.

Grand Prize

The 1st place winner will receive a professionally mounted enlargement of their photo and a $500 Amazon gift card!

Contest Application Check List

• Completed LifeShots Photo Application & Photo Release for each individual in photo
• Maximum quality original electronic photo file (Electronic copy of the photo(s) in a RAW or maximum quality JPEG format, 300 dpi or larger with an image size no less than 2400 pixels can be delivered via email, flash drive, or CD/DVD)

The 2026 LifeShots Photo Contest & Gallery is generously supported by the Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center at Columbia University.