The prestigious Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition is now officially open for entries, giving professional and emerging photographers the opportunity to earn international recognition—and a substantial prize package. Running from 16 December 2025 through to 28 February 2026, the competition is free to enter and welcomes submissions captured with any camera system, underscoring the brand’s commitment to celebrating artistic excellence above technical allegiance.
Since its inception in 2001, the Hasselblad Masters has become one of the most respected awards in the photography world. It not only spotlights exceptional talent but also fosters creative growth by providing winners with global exposure and the chance to collaborate with Hasselblad on future projects.
For the 2026 edition, photographers can enter images in seven distinct categories: Landscape, Portrait, Street, Architecture, Art, Project // 21 (for photographers aged 21 and under), and Wildlife. Each entrant may submit up to three images per category and enter as many categories as they like.
Entries will be evaluated on photographic ability, originality, composition, conceptual strength, and technical quality. Finalists will be announced on 28 April 2026, at which point public voting will open alongside assessments by the Hasselblad Grand Jury—a distinguished panel that includes leading figures from National Geographic, Getty Images, Magnum Photos, Aperture, and more.
Each category winner will receive the coveted title of Hasselblad Master, a Hasselblad X2D II 100C camera, two XCD lenses of their choice, and a €5,000 cash prize. Winners will also take part in creating original work for the Hasselblad Masters Photography Book, with selected images showcased globally across Hasselblad’s digital and print platforms.
With an esteemed judging panel and a legacy of spotlighting true photographic artistry, the Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition is a career-defining opportunity. Photographers are encouraged to submit their work early to secure a place in this elite showcase.
Landscape
Celebrating powerful visual narratives that connect viewers with the natural world.
Architecture
Exploring unique interpretations of built environments and architectural form.
Portrait
Showcasing emotional depth and connection through expressive human portraits.
Street
Capturing candid, authentic moments that reflect urban life and human interaction.
Art
A conceptual space for creativity, imagination, and photography as visual art.
Project // 21
Open to photographers aged 21 and under; an open theme encouraging experimentation and fresh perspectives.
Wildlife
Highlighting the beauty, complexity, and fragility of the natural world through compelling wildlife imagery.
Who is the competition open to?
- Open to professional photographers worldwide
- Free to enter
- Accepts images taken with any camera system
- Seven categories: Landscape, Portrait, Street, Architecture, Art, Project // 21, Wildlife
- Max three images per category; multiple category entries allowed
- Judged by the Hasselblad Grand Jury and public vote
Entry to the Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition
Entry to the Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition is free and open from 16 December 2025 until 28 February 2026. Photographers can submit their work and review full entry guidelines by visiting the official Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition page.
Winners will be announced on 30 June 2026, with one winner per category receiving a Hasselblad X2D II 100C, two XCD lenses, and a €5,000 prize (approx. £4,270 / $5,400). The Project // 21 category remains open to photographers aged 21 and under, with proof of age required at the finalist stage.
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