SHREVEPORT, La. — The Prize Foundation opened its 2026 season with a launch event and photography showcase at Remington Garage, celebrating regional creativity and marking the start of the 15th annual Louisiana Film Prize competition.
The January 15 event brought together filmmakers, photographers, and arts supporters from across North Louisiana for networking, exhibitions, and the announcement of the winners of the fourth annual Golden Lens Photography Competition.
The Louisiana Film Prize 2026 officially began accepting entries during the event. The competition invites filmmakers to produce short films in Caddo and Bossier Parishes for a chance to win $50,000, the largest cash prize for a narrative short film globally.
“Seeing our creative community pack the house was incredibly inspiring,” said Gregory Kallenberg, founder and executive director of the Prize Foundation. “With 50 Cent putting investment into our film community, and all the other positive developments for Shreveport and Bossier, the future looks bright for Film Prize and for the Golden Lens.”
The Golden Lens competition, held in partnership with Bossier Parish Community College, highlighted photographs capturing the energy of downtown Shreveport-Bossier City during Prize Fest 2025. Attendees voted for the Audience Choice Award while a panel of judges selected the top winner.
Trisha Strackbein’s Umbrellas of Colors won the Judge’s Choice Award and a $1,000 prize, while Jill Stripling’s Get to the Pointe earned the Audience Choice Award and $500.
“The Golden Lens represents an incredible opportunity for photographers to grow, connect, and showcase their talent,” said Jenn Wasserman, head of BPCC’s photography department. “We are building a platform that empowers photographers to explore new horizons, gain valuable mentorship, and share their unique perspectives with the world.”
The 2026 Prize Foundation season will feature a full slate of programs including Louisiana Film Prize, Film Prize Junior, Startup Prize, Music Prize, Food Prize, Comedy Prize, and Taco Wars. Each program aims to foster emerging talent and strengthen Shreveport-Bossier’s creative and economic ecosystem.
More information about the Prize Foundation and its initiatives is available at prizefest.com.