Hasselblad Masters 2026 — a prestigious photography competition with a prize of €5,000
There are competitions that offer cash prizes. And then there are those that elevate photographers to the ranks of the world’s professional elite. Hasselblad Masters is one such opportunity — a competition that is all about calibre, reputation and international visibility, where three selected images can play a decisive role in a career.
Hasselblad Masters has been held since 2001 and is considered one of the most recognisable professional photography competitions in the world. It is open to photographers from different countries and does not require a participation fee. The main thing is not the status or brand of the camera, but the power of the image and the ability to think in series.
How to participate
The competition is structured around seven categories. Exactly three photographs are submitted to each category, and this trio is considered as a single work. You can participate in one or more categories — each will be evaluated separately.
Photographs can be taken with any digital or film camera, regardless of brand or format. It is important to note the restriction: photographs taken with smartphones, tablets, and drones will not be accepted for participation.
2026 Categories
In 2026, the competition will include the following categories: landscape, portrait, street, architecture, art, wildlife, and a separate category, Project // 21. The latter is designed for photographers aged 21 and under and gives young artists the opportunity to participate on an equal footing in an international competition without thematic restrictions.
What the Hasselblad Masters jury really looks at — this is not a competition for a single impressive shot. What matters here is consistency, visual language and the integrity of the series. The jury evaluates photographic skill, composition, creativity, conceptual strength and technical quality, but most often the winning entries are those where three images work together as a single statement.
After the finalists are selected, public voting begins, and at the same time, the Hasselblad Grand Jury evaluates the entries. The final decision is made by a professional jury, but public response also matters.
What the winner receives
One winner is selected in each category. They receive the title of Hasselblad Master, a Hasselblad X2D II 100C camera, two XCD lenses of their choice, and a creative fund of €5,000.
After winning, the next stage begins: collaboration with Hasselblad, creation of new works for the Hasselblad Masters Photography Book, and broad international visibility through exhibitions and the brand’s global channels.
Important rules to know in advance
Images that have already won other major international photo competitions or previous editions of Hasselblad Masters are not eligible for participation. The
organisers also emphasise the requirement for the authenticity of information and the originality of works. The use of artificial intelligence or the provision of false data may result in disqualification. This competition requires transparency and fair play.
Hasselblad Masters is a good choice for photographers who are ready to show not just successful shots, but a collected, confident statement. What matters here is not connections or biography, but the ability to speak to the world in the language of images and maintain a high professional level.
Key dates
Applications are open from 16 December 2025 and will close on 28 February 2026.
Finalists will be announced on 28 April 2026.
Winners will be announced on 30 June 2026.
