Raye and Nile Rodgers are set to judge the 2026 Music Photography Awards, an exciting development that promises to bring a fresh perspective to the world of music photography. The pair will be joined by a diverse panel of photographers and artists, including Måneskin's Damiano David and Harry Styles' producer Kid Harpoon. This diverse group of judges brings a wealth of experience and a unique blend of artistic vision to the competition.
The Music Photography Awards (MPAs) are a highly anticipated event in the music industry, recognizing the best in music and concert photography from around the globe. The free-to-enter competition aims to celebrate the art of capturing live performances and the stories behind the scenes. The winners of the 2026 MPAs will be announced on September 24th at a special ceremony at Abbey Road Studios in London.
What makes this year's judging panel particularly intriguing is the mix of established professionals and emerging talents. Raye and Nile Rodgers bring their decades of experience in the music industry, while Damiano David and Kid Harpoon offer a fresh and contemporary perspective. The presence of photographers like Rankin, Platon, and Dean Chalkley adds a layer of expertise and a commitment to the craft. The inclusion of artists like Hikaru Utada and Lilly Fontaine further enhances the panel's diversity and creativity.
The MPAs also announced Roberta Bayley as the recipient of this year's Icon Award, a well-deserved honor for her iconic photographs of the New York City punk scene in the 1970s. Bayley's work captures the raw energy and spirit of the era, immortalizing artists like Iggy Pop, Debbie Harry, and the Clash. Her portrait of the Ramones on the cover of their self-titled debut album is a timeless image that defines the punk movement.
The competition's categories, including Festivals, Emerging Photographer of the Year, and Music Moment of the Year, provide a platform for photographers to showcase their talent and creativity. The MPAs also recognize the importance of punk music with a special category dedicated to its 50th anniversary. The judges' choice and Icon categories further add to the excitement, offering additional opportunities for recognition and celebration.
In my opinion, the 2026 Music Photography Awards will be a showcase of the best in the field, with a judging panel that brings a unique blend of experience and fresh perspectives. The competition's focus on recognizing the art of music photography and its diverse categories make it a must-watch event for music enthusiasts and photographers alike. The MPAs are a testament to the power of visual storytelling in the music industry, and I can't wait to see the incredible talent that emerges from this year's competition.
