Sony Photography Awards Finalists

The 19th edition of the awards attracted over 430,000 images from more than 200 countries and territories, showcasing a vast array of photographic styles and perspectives. The competition is judged anonymously and is completely free to enter, a principle established by the World Photography Organisation to ensure inclusivity and access for photographers worldwide. This year's 30 professional finalists were selected from a pool of more than 65 shortlisted photographers. Their work explores a wide range of subjects, from Joy Saha's documentation of vernacular architecture in Bangladesh to Colin Delfosse's examination of the restitution of African masks. A distinguished jury will now select the ultimate winners. For the Professional competition, the panel is chaired by curator Monica Allende and includes experts like Zack Hatfield, managing editor of Aperture magazine, and Paul Ninson, founder of Africa's largest photography library, the Dikan Center in Ghana. The overall Photographer of the Year will be announced at a London ceremony on April 16. This individual will receive a $25,000 cash prize, Sony digital imaging equipment, and a solo exhibition at the following year's event. An exhibition of selected works from the finalists and shortlisted photographers will be held at London's Somerset House from April 17 to May 4, 2026, before embarking on a global tour. This exhibition provides a significant platform for both emerging and established artists to gain international exposure.