2011 was the first year the contest was held. Over 1.400 photos were entered by 250 photographers from all over the world.

The photo ‘Leon’ by Dutch photographer Trea van Drunen was the first winner of the Pride Photo Award. The award is given to the best single image that captures sexual and gender diversity in a compelling way.  The jury looked for exceptional photographs challenging traditional gender stereotypes or depicting the diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The jury was impressed with the quality and diversity of over 1,400 photos submitted by 250 participants. Most were from West- European countries but there were also entries from the Middle-East, Asia, North America, Latin America, Africa, and Australia.

Regarding the submissions, the jury said: “The entries dealt with stereotypes but also with very real people. It contained a lot of surprises in the variety of types of people shown. We were seeing a broad range of queer experiences. This award is necessary both for these people living in often difficult circumstances and for the photographers who are bringing us important stories that are not always welcomed.”