The Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition has once again showcased the incredible talent and creativity of photographers worldwide. This year's winners, selected by a grand jury and a public voting process, have produced works that are not only visually stunning but also thought-provoking and conceptually strong. Here's a closer look at each of the seven winners and their remarkable contributions to the world of photography.
Art: Waste Colonialism by Yudha Kusuma Putera
Yudha Kusuma Putera's series, Waste Colonialism, is a powerful exploration of social issues that often go unnoticed. Through his lens, Putera highlights the complex relationship between humans, nature, and the systems we create. The images focus on the export of waste from developed nations to developing countries, as seen at the Piyungan landfill in Yogyakarta. The photographer's unique approach lies in the way he presents these issues, using direct and unambiguous imagery that consistently resists easy interpretation. This visual uncertainty keeps viewers engaged, encouraging them to question and reflect on the underlying tensions.
Architecture: Daysleeper | Movieland by Kevin Boyle
Kevin Boyle's series, Daysleeper | Movieland, is a poignant tribute to the architecture of small communities. Having grown up in the vast Canadian prairies, Boyle returned home after his father's passing to find many beloved places abandoned. Over a decade, he has traveled North America, documenting the decay of these small towns. Boyle's use of photographic montages, created by lighting areas with a flashlight and compositing shots, adds a sense of nostalgia and imagination. The empty spaces and lack of people in the images trigger our imaginations, allowing us to envision the vibrant communities that once thrived in these buildings.
Portrait: Otherness by Svetlana Jovanovic
Svetlana Jovanovic's background in psychology is evident in her award-winning portrait series, Otherness. Her keen interest in identity is explored through identical twins, examining the interaction between individual and shared identity. Jovanovic's precise use of light and composition reveals subtle layers of emotion, capturing the mirroring and duality of these unique individuals. The series showcases the minute differences between twins, providing a fascinating insight into the complexities of human identity.
Landscape: Ephemeral Visions by Rohan Reilly
Rohan Reilly's Ephemeral Visions series takes landscapes to a new level by focusing on the bare essentials of composition. Using long-exposure techniques, Reilly transforms moving landscapes into extreme stillness. His work relies heavily on negative space and minimal color, creating a sense of tranquility and meditation. The series, featuring rows of poplar trees along the Po River in Italy, showcases the beauty and resilience of nature, while also highlighting the importance of these trees in flood prevention.
Project//21: Dwellers of the Night by Panitbhand Paribatra Na Ayudhya
The Project//21 category, reserved for photographers aged 21 or younger, was won by Panitbhand Paribatra Na Ayudhya for his series, Dwellers of the Night. This vibrant underwater photography series showcases the photographer's dedication to the ocean. Na Ayudhya's use of colorful lighting and slow shutter speeds captures the motion of marine life, creating a dream-like aesthetic. The images, taken in the waters of Anilao, Philippines, reveal the beauty and mystery of the natural world, reminding us of the importance of preserving our oceans.
Street: Morning Ritual by Gosse Bouma
Gosse Bouma's series, Morning Ritual, offers a fresh perspective on street markets. Bouma's distinct style transforms bustling hubs into tranquil scenes. The use of dim lighting and cool weather creates a calming atmosphere, contrasting with the warm glow of the markets and their operators. Bouma's understanding of atmosphere, scale, and timing results in images that feel both intimate and monumental, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
Wildlife: The Forest I Roam by Alfred Minnaar
Alfred Minnaar's The Forest I Roam series celebrates the tiny creatures that call coral their home. Minnaar's patience and creativity are on full display as he captures the vibrant palette of coral and the small fish that inhabit it. The series provides a strong sense of scale, framing the goby fish against a colorful backdrop. Minnaar's work not only showcases the beauty of the underwater world but also emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts.
These seven winners have demonstrated that photography is not just about recording moments but also about constructing powerful narratives. Each series offers a unique perspective, inviting viewers to question, reflect, and appreciate the art of photography in all its forms.
