Organizer Information
Hasselblad is one of the world's most iconic camera manufacturers, renowned for its high-end medium format systems. Established in 2001, the Hasselblad Masters is recognized as one of the most prestigious professional photography competitions in the world. It aims to celebrate creative excellence and technical mastery, giving both established professionals and young talents an international stage to showcase their work.
Title & Description
Hasselblad Masters 2026: "Experience Excellence"
The 2026 edition of this biennial competition invites photographers to submit their most inventive and extraordinary work. The program seeks to honor the "Masters" of the craft—those who push the boundaries of visual storytelling. For the 2026 cycle, winners are tasked with a collaborative project using Hasselblad equipment, which culminates in the publication of the commemorative Hasselblad Masters Book.
Categories
- Landscape: Works that forge a shared connection between humanity and nature.
- Architecture: Innovative perspectives on the built environment and structure.
- Portrait: Imagery that reveals the subject's inner world and emotional resonance.
- Street: Urban fragments turned into a living narration of how we live and interact.
- Art: A realm where concept merges with technique, reshaping perceptions of photography.
- Wildlife: Visualizing the subtle bond between humans and wildlife and the rhythm of nature.
- Project // 21: An unconstrained platform for photographers aged 21 and under (no theme restrictions).
Eligibility
- Who Can Apply: Open to professional and amateur photographers worldwide.
- Gear: Submissions can be captured on any camera system (digital or film), regardless of brand.
- Exclusions: Photos taken with drones, smartphones, or tablets are not eligible.
- Age: For the "Project // 21" category, entrants must be 21 years old or younger at the time of the submission deadline.
- Restrictions: Images that have previously won awards in major competitions (e.g., Sony World Photography Awards, Nikon Photo Contest, World Press Photo) are ineligible.
Program Benefits & Awards
One winner is selected for each of the seven categories. Each "Hasselblad Master" receives:
- Title: The prestigious "Hasselblad Master" title for two years.
- Equipment: A Hasselblad X2D II 100C camera and two XCD Series lenses of their choice.
- Grant: A creative fund of €5,000 (EUR) in cash.
- Publication: Inclusion in the high-quality Hasselblad Masters book and global promotion via Hasselblad’s marketing channels.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Quantity: Each entry must consist of three (3) photos per category. You may enter multiple categories, but the images must be consistent in style within each category.
- Format: JPG files, under 10MB each, with a resolution of 300 dpi or higher. The long edge must be at least 1,000 pixels.
- Originality: Works must be original and cannot be AI-synthesized.
- Rights: Winners grant Hasselblad a perpetual license to use the images for commercial and promotional purposes.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: February 2026
- Finalists Announced: 28 April 2026
- Winners Announced: June 30, 2026
Location
Göteborg, Sweden
Additional Details
The evaluation is based on photographic ability, creativity, composition, conceptual strength, and technical excellence. The Hasselblad Grand Jury, composed of industry experts and past Masters, makes the final selection.