Read the latest issue
Photography News Photographer of the Year 2026
Our annual flagship photography contest returns for 2026 bigger and broader than ever, ready to show off your finest work to the world
|15.05.2026
2 min read
Every day, millions of images are taken, uploaded, shared, scrolled past and often forgotten. And yet, the photographs that truly matter – the ones that stay with you – are still surprisingly rare.
That’s why Photography News Photographer of the Year 2026 matters.
This isn’t just about finding the sharpest image or the most technically perfect shot. It’s about celebrating the photographs that connect.
Last year’s competition proved just how strong that connection can be. Entries poured in from across the UK and beyond, covering everything from dramatic landscapes and wildlife encounters to quiet, personal moments and bold creative work. The standard was high, but more importantly, the variety of voices and viewpoints was what made it special.
For 2026, we’re opening things up even further. There are now 11 categories, giving you more freedom to express your creativity. Alongside established genres like landscape, portrait, street and wildlife, there are opportunities in black & white, events, macro, buildings, lighting and photo editing. And for the first time, we’re introducing a young photographer category for under-18s – because the next generation of image makers deserves a platform too.
Entry is free, and there are no limits on how many images you can submit or categories you enter. Whether you shoot professionally, part-time or for the love of it, this is your chance to be seen. All we ask is that the work is your own and not AI-generated. Extensive editing is fine, of course.
A panel of expert judges will select the winners, with one image maker crowned Photographer of the Year for 2026. Beyond the recognition, though, this is about something bigger – being part of a community that values creativity, originality and the power of truly great photography.
Go out, shoot what matters to you – and show us how you see the world.
Entries are now open via the Photography News website, with the deadline set for 14 August 2026. Winners will be revealed in issue 129, published in September.
Read on to find out more about the categories in this prestigious contest.
We start with the most popular category in our competition, and one where last year’s winner was also crowned overall Photographer of the Year for this amazing shot of a gritstone tor called the Salt Cellar at Derwent Edge in the Peak District.
In this category, judges look beyond just a pretty view. Strong entries show composition, light and timing working together, with a clear sense of place and atmosphere. Originality matters – whether it’s a fresh location, unusual conditions or a creative perspective. Technical quality is important, but so is emotion. Images that draw the viewer in and make them feel something will always stand out from the crowd, and that was certainly the case in this shot by Wesley Kristopher on his Nikon Z 8 fitted with the Nikkor Z 14-30mm f/4.5 lens at f/11 to retain sharpness from front to back.
Like all landscape work, it’s all about the composition and light, and our champion nailed it. The stunning heather in the foreground leads your eye along the path to the rocks then on to the distant hills and sunset, all under foreboding skies. Look longer and you discover incredible detail.
Juggling a career as a semi-professional photographer and full-time baker for about eight years, he started exploring the Peak District to help deal with social anxiety issues.
“The mix of tech and gadgets, combined with getting outside in nature and meeting like-minded people, really helped me. The Peak District became my own personal classroom, one from which I’m still learning to this day.”
The location of the winning image is very popular around the heather season as it’s surrounded by colour and is able to look its best. “This particular evening was dramatic, with dark storm clouds ahead and plenty of rain, which helped to freshen the scene. We got absolutely soaked, but our patience paid off when the sun burst out for a few precious moments,” Kristopher says.
“I switched my focus to landscapes after a few years where I concentrated specifically on farm animals and wildlife. I felt I was becoming known for that and it was my niche, but I’ve always enjoyed landscapes – it’s what started my photography journey,” he adds. “It feels incredible to have this kind of recognition. Keep getting out there and doing what you enjoy. Share your experiences and enter competitions – you never know what opportunities it will bring. There are many rules in photography, but you can put your own spin on things and stand out from the crowd.” Let’s see if you can match that amazing standard for this year’s edition.
The best photos from events involve authentic storytelling and decisive moments. The strongest images capture real emotion – whether it’s joy, celebration or quiet intimacy. Timing is crucial, as is composition under pressure. Good use of light, awareness of surroundings and the ability to anticipate moments all count. The best entries go beyond documentation, offering a fresh perspective that makes the viewer feel connected to the story unfolding. Events can range from sports to weddings and anything else where people gather.
Image: Phyo Kyaw
Stunning images of buildings are about structure, form and perspective. Strong images make the most of lines, symmetry and geometry to create impact, whether capturing modern architecture or historic landmarks, interiors or exteriors. Judges will look for careful composition, control of distortion and a thoughtful use of light to highlight textures and shapes. Original viewpoints help an image stand out, turning familiar scenes into something fresh. The best shots will balance technical precision with creativity to reveal the true character of a space.
Image: Robert Johnson
In the lighting category, it’s all about creative use of light to shape the image. This could be carefully controlled studio set-ups or the skilful use of natural light outdoors. What matters is how light defines mood, depth and subject. Strong entries show an understanding of direction, contrast and balance, using light to guide the viewer’s eye. Whether dramatic or subtle, the best images feel purposeful, with lighting that enhances the story rather than simply illuminating the scene.
Image: Michael Hilton
Creative use of post-processing that enhances, not overwhelms, the image is what makes a winning shot in the photo editing class. Strong entries show control, intention and a clear visual style, whether subtle or highly stylised. The best edits improve mood, colour, contrast or storytelling without looking forced or overdone.
Image: Brian Hennessy
Street photography is about timing, observation and authenticity. The strongest images capture fleeting moments that reveal something about everyday life. Composition and framing are key, often using layers, geometry or light to add depth and interest. A sense of story or intrigue helps an image stand out, while seeing the ordinary in a new way is crucial. The best shots feel spontaneous yet perfectly timed.
Image: Denis Wesson
Wildlife photography demands incredible patience, amazing timing and respect for the subject. Strong entries capture animals behaving naturally, ideally in their environment, rather than posed or overly disturbed scenes. Sharpness and focus are important, especially on the eyes, but so is a moment of action, interaction or character that brings the image to life. Good use of light, background and composition helps separate the subject, while ethical practice is always an important consideration.
Image: Lina Girling
In the black & white category, judges are looking for images that make full use of the power of monochrome. Everything relies on light, shadow, contrast and texture for impact. Strong compositions, striking tonal range and a clear subject are key. The best images use black & white to enhance mood, simplify a scene or add drama. Whether portraiture, landscape or street, entries should feel purposeful, with each element working together to create a compelling image.
Image: Phyo Kyaw
Precision and a fresh perspective on the small world are what the macro category is all about. Sharpness and control of depth-of-field are key, but so is composition as the best images simplify complex subjects into something striking. Lighting plays a big role in revealing texture and form, while originality helps an image stand out. Whether it’s nature, textures or abstract details, successful entries give tiny subjects a big visual impact.
Image: Frank Homem
Connection and character are shown in the strongest portrait photos. The best images reveal something about the subject, whether through expression, pose or environment. Good use of light, composition and background helps focus attention, but it’s the impact that sets great portraits apart. Candid or carefully staged, the best entries feel authentic and engaging.
Image: Michael Hilton
The young photographer category, for those under 18 when the shot was taken, is all about fresh vision and creative potential. Judges aren’t expecting perfection, but they are looking for imagination, confidence and a clear way of seeing the world. Strong entries show curiosity, storytelling and an understanding of composition and light. Original ideas and perspective matter more than technical polish. This is a chance to take risks and show what makes your photography unique.
Image: Joao Serralheiro
Share this story
