The Sony World Photography Awards reveal today the 30 finalists and over 65 shortlisted photographers in the 2026 Professional competition: a powerful showcase of visual storytelling that pushes the boundaries of contemporary photography. Celebrating nearly two decades of photographic excellence, the Professional competition champions photographers whose bold bodies of work combine mastery of the craft with narrative vision.

Across this year’s competitions, over 430,000 images from over 200 countries and territories were submitted.

The 10 category winners are chosen from the 30 finalists and announced at a special ceremony in London on 16 April. The recipient of the prestigious Photographer of the Year title, is chosen from the category winners and announced on the same night, receiving a $25,000 (USD) cash prize, a range of Sony Digital Imaging equipment, as well as the opportunity to show their work in a solo presentation at next year’s London exhibition. The winners and finalists are additionally invited to London for Insights, a day of tailored sessions with leading industry figures, offering specialised guidance on ways to continue expanding their platform.

A selection of works by finalist and shortlisted photographers is first on view as part of the Sony World Photography Awards 2026 exhibition at Somerset House, London, from 17 April - 4 May 2026, and will thereafter travel to other locations.