A photomarathon is a photography competition in which participants must take a series of photographs on predetermined subjects in a set period of time, typically 12 to 24 hours.
Photos are typically judged using criteria that combine photographic technique and creativity in interpreting the theme.
[3] The photomarathon concept started in Madrid in 1985,[4] before being taken up in Copenhagen, Denmark, where a competition has been taking place annually since 1989.
[14] One reason for the massive success of this contest was to combine photography and action: conducting urban photographic adventures.
The proposed themes stimulate the creativity of the participants (for example: "They come from abroad"), thousands of photographers concentrated in certain parts of the city in a precise moment (“Walking by Puerta del Sol at twelve o'clock when I decided to take a picture of the clock"), or filled parks with excited reporters trying to capture the image suggested ("Elf, a costumed character who must be locate and photograph in the Buen Retiro Park”).
This opened a new dimension to photographic competitions introducing ingenuity, spontaneity, active participation and creativity, and perseverance and physical and mental strength to complete 24 hours of the contest.
The photographers competed but also made friends, had fun and acquired a better knowledge of their city, museums, places and services.
The jury, choose among photographers and artists of renown (Ouka Lele, Miguel Trillo, Ciuco, Jorge Arranz, etc.)