“Fighting, Not Sinking” © Eddie Jim, The Age/Sydney Morning Herald. Southeast Asia and Oceania, Singles.
“The 500-strong community on Kioa Island has grown from a settlement of people who sought refuge in the 1940s from rising sea levels on Tuvalu, an island to the north. Now, their fishing and farming economy is threatened again, as increasingly eroding shorelines mean that they and more than 600 communities around Fiji could be forced to relocate in the coming years. Lotomau Fiafia (72), a community elder, stands with his grandson John at the point where he remembers the shoreline used to be when he was a boy. Salia Bay, Kioa Island, Fiji, 8 August 2023”

The World Press Photo Contest has announced the 2024 regional winners in a showcase of global photojournalism. In spotlighting these photographers, they invite the public to step outside of the news cycle and examine prominent and overlooked stories from around the world.

The awarded photographs were selected from 61,062 entries by 3,851 photographers from 130 countries. They were judged first by six regional juries, and then a global jury chose the winners. In a few weeks, four global winners—selected from the regional winners—will be announced.

Several prominent themes stand out among the winners, who were rewarded for single images, long-term projects, and photographic stories. The Israel-Hamas War was so present in the entries that the jury decided to designate two special awards to photographers covering the tragedy. Mustafa Hassouna and Leon Neal were singled out for their images detailing the aftermath of air strikes and attacks. Asia singles winner Mohammed Salem's image of a woman cradling her niece's body after a missile struck their home puts a human face on the events.

“Each year, jurors from all over the globe review tens of thousands of photos to find a selection that is visually stunning, tells stories that matter, and represents our shared world,” shared executive director of World Press Photo Joumana El Zein Khoury. “This year’s selection includes stories of desperation, hunger, war, and loss—but also of perseverance, courage, love, family, dreams, and more butterflies than anyone has a right to expect.”

Stories of family, the environment, and the struggle for personal rights are woven throughout the winners. Looking at this global selection, it's clear that many of us struggle with the same issues. In this way, the regional winners are an incredible showcase to bring us together.

Scroll down to see more photographic excellence from around the world.

The World Press Photo Contest has announced the 2024 regional winners.

“Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza” © Mustafa Hassouna, Anadolu Images. Jury Special Mention.
“A resident of al-Zahra walks through the rubble of homes destroyed in Israeli airstrikes. The strikes hit around 25 apartment blocks in the university and residential neighborhood. At the time of writing (4 March 2024), Israel’s attacks on the occupied Palestinian territories during the Israel-Hamas war had killed some 30,000 people and injured more than 70,000. Gaza City, Gaza, 19 October 2023.”

“The Aftermath of the Supernova Festival Attack” © Leon Neal, Getty Images. Jury Special Mention.
“An Israeli security forces officer searches the site of the Supernova music festival for personal effects of victims of the 7 October Hamas attack, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths, more than 2,500 reported injuries, and some 250 people held hostage from the festival and communities near the Gaza border. Re’im, Israel, 12 October 2023”

“Returning Home from War” © Vincent Haiges, Real 21. Africa, Singles.
“Violent internal conflict between government forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) gripped northern Ethiopia from 2020 until a ceasefire in November 2022. Kibrom Berhane (24) joined the Tigray Defense Forces (the armed wing of the TPLF) in early 2021 after government forces attacked his village in eastern Tigray. Kibrom Berhane greets his mother for the first time since he joined the Tigray Defense Forces two years earlier. Saesie Tsada, Ethiopia, 21 September 2023.”

“Saving the Monarchs” © Jaime Rojo, for National Geographic. North and Central America, Stories.
“People across Canada, the US, and Mexico are banding together to reverse the more than 80% decline that has affected the eastern migratory monarch butterfly population since the mid-1990s. Reasons for the depopulation include loss of breeding habitat, the disappearance of milkweed (the caterpillar’s sole diet) due to expanding industrial agriculture along their long migratory route, and, recently, climate change. This beautiful yet powerful story – a symbol of unity in polarized times – offers a solutions-oriented perspective on environmental change and conservation.”

“Red Skies, Green Waters” © Adriana Loureiro Fernandez, for The New York Times. South America, Stories.
“Around the turn of this century, oil-rich Venezuela was prosperous, but its fortunes declined following plummeting oil prices, economic mismanagement, sanctions, and political instability. Oil spills from obsolete infrastructure and methane produced by the refining process ravage the environment. Neighbors play Animal Lotto under a sky lit by one of the world’s largest gas flares. Punta de Mata, Venezuela, 5 November 2022.”

“Battle for Sovereignty” © Michael Varcas, for The Philippine Star. Southeast Asia and Oceania, Stories.
“China reinforces its expansive claims in the South China Sea with island-building and naval patrols, raising concerns that the region is becoming a flashpoint, with potentially serious global consequences. Over a third of the global shipping industry transits through these waters, and half of the world’s fishing vessels operate here. Filipino fishermen dock their boats beside a government supply ship distributing oil and food. 20 September 2023.”

“Kakhovka Dam: Flood in a War Zone” © Johanna Maria Fritz, Ostkreuz, for Die Zeit. Europe, Stories.
“An overview of a flooded area of Kherson, taken from a tower block. At the time, Ukrainian authorities estimated that more than 40,000 people would need to be evacuated. Kherson, Ukraine, 7 June 2023.”

The awarded photographs were selected from 61,062 entries by 3,851 photographers from 130 countries.

“The Two Walls” © Alejandro Cegarra, The New York Times/Bloomberg. North and Central America, Long-Term Projects.
“A migrant walks atop a freight train known as “The Beast.” Migrants and asylum seekers lacking the financial resources to pay a smuggler often resort to using cargo trains to reach the United States border. This mode of transportation is very dangerous; over the years, hundreds have fallen onto the tracks and have been killed or maimed. Piedras Negras, Mexico, 8 October 2023.”

“The Escape” © Zied Ben Romdhane, Magnum Photos, Arab Fund for Arts and Culture, AIM LAB. Africa, Long-Term Projects.
“Tunisia’s 2011 revolution, which catalyzed the “Arab Spring,” instilled hope in Tunisians aspiring to democracy, social justice, and freedom of expression. However, the subsequent decade witnessed political instability, persistent economic crises, and social inequality, impacting young people especially. High school students celebrate the end of the school year at Sidi Bou Said Beach. Easily accessible by train, the beach is a meeting place for young people from different social classes. Tunis, Tunisia, 14 April 2023”

“Mapuche: The Return of the Ancient Voices” © Pablo E. Piovano, Greenpeace Award, GEO, National Geographic Society. South America, Long-Term Projects.
“Mapuche communities are the Indigenous inhabitants of territories that are now part of Argentina and Chile. Much of their ancestral land is being commercially exploited – for mining, forestry, and hydroelectric projects in Chile, and fracking in Argentina. Mapuche of all regions arrive at the funeral of Camilo Catrillanca, a prominent Mapuche weichafe (community leader and defender of territorial rights), who was shot from behind by Chilean officers. Ercilla, Araucanía, Chile, 17 November 2018.”

“I Am Still With You” © Wang Naigong. Asia, Long-Term Projects.
“This project is a private visual record that aims to explore the concept of family photos. In close collaboration with the family, the photographer tells the story of Jiuer, a young mother of three in northern China who gains more understanding and appreciation for life in her final years after being diagnosed with cancer. After surgery and radiotherapy treatment, Jiuer recovers well, and the family feels optimistic about the future. Jiuer says: “Life is not long. Do what you want to do, and choose what you love.” Liaoning, China, 28 November 2020. “

“Battle for Sovereignty” © Michael Varcas, for The Philippine Star. Southeast Asia and Oceania, Stories.
“China reinforces its expansive claims in the South China Sea with island-building and naval patrols, raising concerns that the region is becoming a flashpoint, with potentially serious global consequences. Over a third of the global shipping industry transits through these waters, and half of the world’s fishing vessels operate here.Filipino fishermen dock their boats beside a government supply ship distributing oil and food. 20 September 2023.”

“Valim-babena” © Lee-Ann Olwage, for GEO. Africa, Stories.
“In Madagascar, lack of public awareness surrounding dementia means that people displaying symptoms of memory loss are often stigmatized. For years, Paul Rakotozandriny, “Dada Paul” (91), who lives with dementia, has been cared for by his daughter Fara Rafaraniriana (41). Dada Paul and his granddaughter Odliatemix get ready for church. He has lived with dementia for 11 years. For much of that time, his family assumed he had “gone mad” or attributed the symptoms to alcohol consumption. Only his daughter Fara noticed something different and continued caring for him. Antananarivo, Madagascar, 12 March 2023”

“Survivors”© Arlette Bashizi, for The Washington Post. Africa, Honorable Mention.
“The 2020 conflict in the Tigray region of Ethiopia lasted two years, leading to approximately 600,000 deaths with millions more facing extreme famine. Although exact figures are difficult to confirm, a comprehensive study estimates that more than 100,000 women may have been victims of sexual violence over the course of the war. Due to societal prejudice and stigmatization surrounding rape and sexual assault, many of these women struggle in isolation, rejected by their families and communities. Shila (32), a mother of three, ran a hairdressing salon before Eritrean soldiers invaded her town and repeatedly raped her for three months. As a consequence, Shila became pregnant and gave birth to a boy, but her other children do not know that her mother was assaulted. Shila is uncertain if she will ever be strong enough to tell them the truth. Mekele, Tigray region, Ethiopia, 2 November 2023”

On April 18, four global winners—selected from the regional winners—will be announced.

“Adrift” © Felipe Dana and Renata Brito, Associated Press. Africa, Open Format.
“In May 2021, a boat from Mauritania full of dead men was found off the coast of the Caribbean Island of Tobago. Who were these men, and why were they on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean? Two visual journalists sought answers, uncovering a story about migrants from West Africa who seek opportunity in Europe via an increasingly popular but treacherous Atlantic route.”

“Afghanistan on the Edge” © Ebrahim Noroozi, Associated Press. Asia, Stories.
“An Afghan woman rests in the desert, near a camp housing people recently deported from Pakistan, close to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Torkham, Afghanistan, 17 November 2023”

“A Palestinian Woman Embraces the Body of Her Niece” © Mohammed Salem, Reuters. Asia, Singles.
“Inas Abu Maamar (36) cradles the body of her niece Saly (5), who was killed, along with four other family members, when an Israeli missile struck their home. Khan Younis, Gaza, 17 October 2023”

“No Man’s Land” © Daniel Chatard. Europe, Long-Term Projects.
“RWE demolishes the Immerath parish church, as the village is destroyed to make way for expansion of the Garzweiler open-pit mine. The company offered to re-accommodate residents in a new village 8 km away. Immerath, Germany, 8 January 2018”

“A Father’s Pain” © Adem Altan, Agence France-Presse. Europe, Singles.
“Mesut Hançer holds the hand of his 15-year-old daughter Irmak, killed while asleep when her grandmother’s home collapsed during an earthquake in southern Turkey. Kahramanmaraş, Turkey, 7 February 2023.”

“War Is Personal” © Julia Kochetova. Europe, Open Format.
“Amidst tens of thousands of civilian and military casualties and an effective stalemate that has lasted for months, there are no signs of peace on the horizon for Russia’s war in Ukraine. While news media updates its audience with statistics and maps, and international attention drifts elsewhere, the photographer has created a personal website that brings together photojournalism with the personal documentary style of a diary to show the world what it is like to live with war as an everyday reality.”

“A Day in the Life of a Quebec Fire Crew” © Charles-Frédérick Ouellet, for The Globe and Mail, CALQ. North and Central America, Singles.
“Fueled by high temperatures and dry conditions, gigantic summer forest fires swept across Canada in 2023, affecting all 13 provinces and territories, especially northern parts of Quebec. The record-breaking fire season began early and ended late, burning nearly three times more land than usual. Theo Dagnaud scans the horizon to ensure that firefighter patrols have left, and he can mark the area as “controlled”. Quebec, Canada, 13 July 2023.”

“Drought in the Amazon” © Lalo de Almeida, for Folha de São Paulo. South America, Singles.
“A fisherman walks across the dry bed of a branch of the Amazon River, near the Porto Praia Indigenous community. Tefé, Amazonas, Brazil, 13 October 2023.”

“Silenced Crimes” © Marco Garro, Pulitzer Center. South America, Open Format.
“This painstakingly researched web report collects the untold stories of the persecution of LGBTQI+ people in the Peruvian Amazon. From 1980 to 2000, leftist revolutionary insurgency groups like the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA) terrorized, tortured, and murdered members of the LGBTQI+ community in the Loreto, Ucayali, and San Martin regions. Although a 2003 report by the Peruvian government’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission takes note of the systematic violence caused by these political groups, there is no acknowledgment of the injuries and human rights abuses suffered by the LGBTQI+ community.”

World Press Photo: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by World Press Photo.

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In 2021, photographer Kin Coedel visited the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding regions to capture the people who make this place their home. The result is Dyal Thak, a timeless series of photographs that documents the nomadic people who live on the plateau.

His beautiful portraits and stunning images, detailing everyday life in this environment, weave a fascinating tale of life in Tibet. By engaging with the local community and listening to their stories, Coedel is able to photograph the authentic moments of their daily lives. Coedel first visited Tibet while on assignment to photograph nomadic women working with yak wool. He fell in love with the area and its people, returning several times to explore Tibet's rich culture.

“I find great joy in photographing cultures that are often underrepresented,” he tells My Modern Met. “It challenges my own cultural expectations, having grown up in the West where our perceptions of Eastern cultures are often limited. Through travel and immersion in diverse communities, my understanding of the world continues to evolve.”

Most of Coedel's photographs were taken in Ritoma, a tight-knit community of majority-led craftswomen. Thanks to his ability to connect with locals, his images demonstrate the strong familial and community bonds present in the village. And, at the same time, he shines a spotlight on the crafts, like weaving, and pastoral activities that are the lifeblood of the area.

Coedel's photographs also highlight the strong bond between Tibetan people and nature. The incredible landscape of the Tibetan Plateau is everpresent and is an equal protagonist in the photographs. It was important for Coedel to show this beautiful dynamic in the series.

“I hope my work encourages viewers to consider alternative ways of living,” Coedel shares. “Perhaps it can plant a seed for a healthier relationship between humanity and nature, as well as among ourselves.”

Dyal Thak is photographer Kin Coedel's evocative series of images from the Tibetan Plateau.

Thanks to his ability to integrate himself into the community, Coedel's photos give a true glimpse of daily life on the plateau.

His work highlights the close familial and community bonds.

“One of the most striking aspects of Tibetan culture is the kindness of its people and their profound connection to nature.”

“I hope my work encourages viewers to consider alternative ways of living.”

“Perhaps it can plant a seed for a healthier relationship between humanity and nature, as well as among ourselves.”

Kin Coedel: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Kin Coedel.

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“In Great-Grandpa’s Hands” by Yvonne C. Krystovsky. First Place Winner.
“The photograph shows the hands of a great-grandfather holding those of his great-grandchild in a moment of tender connection. The wrinkles and scars on the old man’s skin tell of a lifetime of experiences, while the child’s soft fingers reflect the innocence and curiosity of youth. Photographed in black and white, the details emphasize the emotional depth of the moment and the contrast between old and young. Every line, texture, and nuance reinforces the significance of this intergenerational love. This photograph is a touching testament to the beauty and depth of the connection between generations.”

A touching photo of two generations holding hands has won Black & White Magazine‘s 2024 Black and White Minimalist Photography Prize. Yvonne Krystovsky‘s photograph of a great-grandfather holding his great-grandchild's hands is a study in contrasts. The smooth skin of the child against the wrinkles of the elderly man makes us reflect on the passage of time and the power of intergenerational love.

Krystovsky's photograph was judged against the 1,300 submissions to the annual competition and was one of three that placed in the contest. Daniel Zaleski was named runner-up for his look at a contemporary concrete staircase in a former slaughterhouse. His image emphasizes the sharp lines of the structure and plays with soft shadows for an aesthetically pleasing composition.

In third place, Alexandre Caetano‘s photograph of a desolate road in Spain leads the viewer's eyes into the distance. He creates a striking image by playing with a stark contrast between the nearly black road and the hazy sky.

Alongside the winners, the judges have also awarded honorable mentions to a talented group of photographers who impressed with their ability to create minimalist masterpieces. Scroll down to see the winners and a selection of our favorite finalists.

Black & White Magazine has announced the winners of the Black and White Minimalist Photography Prize.

“Minimalist Concrete Staircase” by Daniel Zaleski. Second Place Winner.
“Newly designed and constructed concrete staircase in an old refurbished building (former slaughter house). I was immediately enthralled by the light, tones and simple lines.”

“On top of Serra da Capelada” by Alexandre Caetano. Third Place Winner.
“I am traveling through Costa da Morte, Galicia, 600m above sea level, where the mountains separate the Cantabria Sea from the Atlantic Ocean.”

“Presence” by Soma Szebelledi. Honorable Mention.
“The figure of a woman breaks the strict shapes of the composition and becomes the dominant presence in contrast to the immense mosque wall. Her presence there felt visually and metaphorically rebellious. The scene interchanges different zones of exposure and textures in a geometrical way while she is blissfully out of place.”

“Decisive Steps” by Rohit Rattan. Honorable Mention.
“The particular image was shot in the dunes of the Liwa Desert in the southernmost settlements of Abu Dhabi, which is an escape into the empty quarter stretching for almost 100 km of pure sand oasis. The image provokes thought for one to be durable against the adversaries of life and walk with decisive steps in the unknown oasis of life.”

“Baby Baboon Silhouette” by Turgay Uzer. Honorable Mention.
“There is a stand of baobab trees in Zambia's Luangwa National Park where the sunset acts as backlighting. This image was taken at that time, using the last rays of the sun, which were illuminating a family of baboons.”

1,300 images were entered into this year's contest.

“Making Tracks” by Roy Curtis. Honorable Mention.
“A roe dear crossing an alien landscape of plastic agricultural fleece, leaving faint tracks as it goes.”

“Quiet Time” by Andrew Whettam. Honorable Mention.
“Shingle Street in Suffolk, England.”

“Natural Light and Nude” by Jacinta Tomyn. Honorable Mention.
“‘Self-Portrait, Natural Light and Nude' was captured in my home studio in Adelaide, South Australia, 2023, with myself both as photographer and muse. Using natural light only, I strived to subtly illuminate and present the nude with simplicity and elegance.”

“The Tree in the Winter Field” by Tomas Tison. Honorable Mention.
“My attention was captured by the solitary tree standing as a sentinel in this snowy scene. Its silhouette creates a strong contrast against the white background. I was also fascinated by the cloud structure above the tree, forming an almost poetic arc around it, as if nature itself wanted to emphasize its uniqueness.”

“Trilogy” by Gabrielle van den Elshout. Honorable Mention.
“Office building in Amsterdam.”

The judges named three winners and also recognized a group of talented finalists.

“Rotunda” by Claudia Arevalo. Honorable Mention.
“Thomas Jefferson designed this building to represent the ‘authority of nature and power of reason'.”

“Windows” by Manfred Gruber. Honorable Mention.
“Austria/Vienna.”

“Dried Wood” by Marleen Van Hove. Honorable Mention.
“A non-conventional view of the dried trees in Deadvlei, Namibia.”

“Dilemma” by Hadi Dehghanpour. Honorable Mention.
“The photo shows the footprints of two off-road vehicles in the desert. In the middle of this crossroads, a person stands and does not know which way to go.”

“Bridge Walker” by Klaus Lenzen. Honorable Mention.
“A pedestrian on a bridge over the Rhine in Dusseldorf (Germany). Captured below the bridge access.”

“On Light and Shadows” by Go Kochiya. Honorable Mention.
“In the plaza of a certain facility, several huge pillars were creating shadows. One of them was in a state of sharp V-shaped refraction due to a series of shadows, creating a flat composition of light and shadow. In order to make this composition appear three-dimensional, I photographed a man walking in a position that had both light and shadow in the landscape.”

“Island of Youth” by Dennis Schulz. Honorable Mention.
“The Insel der Jugend is a real beauty in Berlin. Especially in the colder seasons, it shows itself in different facets and is always worth a visit. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to take this photo on a thick foggy day.”

B&W Minimalism Magazine: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by B&W Minimalism Magazine.

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Photos shot on antique cameras are usually snapshots of years gone by, often found in a cherished family photo album or perhaps displayed on the walls of a museum. However, 19-year-old photographer Aila Ru recently went viral on TikTok for a series of vintage-looking portraits of their friends, all captured in the present day with a 100-year-old camera.

Ru has been practicing photography since they were 15. Viewing photography as “an under-appreciated and underutilized art medium,” they felt compelled to pursue it as a creative form of expression and documentation.

“I love alternative and historical photographic processes,” Ru tells My Modern Met. “I think there’s something very special about older methods of photography and it’s becoming somewhat of a forgotten art, so that’s what inspired me to take photos on such an old camera.”

Given the sepia-toned, soft-focused nature of the images, the average onlooker could easily mistake them for vintage photographs that have been touched up with modern fashion or perhaps some sort of AI filter. But this is not the case. By using a No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie, which was manufactured by Kodak between the years of 1915 and 1926, Ru was able to capture photos of their friends that have an old-world charm to them.

“I really love testing the boundaries of what a photograph can be,” Ru says. “I’m currently a senior in highschool planning to attend art school next year, where I can hopefully grow as an artist and pursue more projects like this.”

You can keep up with Ru's work and even book a photo shoot with them on Instagram.

Aila Ru is a 19-year-old photographer who recently went viral for taking portraits of their friends with an antique camera.

The Atlanta-based creative captured the portraits using a No. 2 Folding Autographic Brownie, which was manufactured by Kodak between the years of 1915 and 1926.

Thanks to the unique color scheme of the photographs and the modern styles of their friends, Ru is able to blend past and present together.

Aila Ru: Instagram | TikTok

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Aila Ru.

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Photo: Tracey Lund (UK). Grand Prize Winner and Gold, Behavior – Birds. Subject: Two gannets under the water. Location: Shetland Islands.

A photograph taken on vacation on the Shetland Islands has won photographer Tracey Lund the grand prize of the 2024 World Nature Photography Awards. Her striking photo shows two gannets underwater as they look to snatch a fish for a tasty meal. The UK photographer's winning photo was selected from the thousands that were entered into the contest.

Lund's photograph also took home the win in the Behavior – Birds category, one of 14 categories awarded in the contest. From portraits of animals to images of people interacting with the environment, the contest is a rewarding look at all facets of the natural world.

Among the category winners, standouts include Alexander Brackx‘s incredible photo capturing the moment a cheetah attacked a zebra and her foal. The dynamic image is a true look at survival in the wild. On the other hand, Pavlos Evangelidis gives us a serene look at how humans rely on nature for nourishment. The Greek photographer's image of Sri Lankan fishermen balancing on poles as they cast their lines at sunset is a beautiful look at tradition.

For the first time, the competition is also giving people the opportunity to have their favorite photographs in their homes. A selection of the winning images from this year’s and previous years’ winners is available to purchase in a dedicated online store. In a win for the environment, the contest will plant a tree for every piece of wall art sold.

“Our winners never fail to take our breath away with their stunning images,” said Adrian Dinsdale, co-founder of the WNPAs. “As always, it’s such a joy to see the amazing caliber of entries into the awards. We’re thrilled that people will now have the chance to buy some of these images to grace the walls of their homes.”

Scroll down to see some of our favorite winners and finalists from the 2024 competition.

These are the incredible winners of the 2024 World Nature Photography Awards.

Photo: Alexander Brackx (Belgium). Gold, Behavior – Mammals. Subject: Mother zebra and her foal being attacked by a cheetah. Location: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya.

Photo: Pavlos Evangelidis (Greece). Gold, People and nature. Subject: Traditional stilt fishermen try their luck at sunset. Location: Koggala, Sri Lanka.

Photo: Ivan Pedretti (Italy). Gold, Planet Earth's landscapes and environments. Subject: Beach and Vestrahorn mountain. Location: Stokksnes, Iceland.

Photo: Andy Schmid (Switzerland). Gold, Underwater. Subject: A female orca splitting a herring bait ball. Location: Skjervøy, Norway.

Photo: Richard Li (USA). Gold, Black and white. Subject: Leopard. Location: East Rift Valley, Kenya.

The contest was founded on the belief that we can all make small efforts to shape the future of our planet in a positive way.

Photo: Celia Kujala (USA). Gold, Nature photojournalism. Subject: Sea lion pup. Location: Coronado Islands, Baja California, Mexico.

Photo: Bill Klipp (USA). Gold, Behavior – Invertebrates. Subject: Sally light-foot crabs. Location: Santiago Island, Galapagos Islands.

Photo: John Seagar (UK). Gold, Behavior – Amphibians and reptiles. Subject: A lava lizard standing on a marine iguana. Location: Galapagos Islands.

Photo: Chatree Lertsintanakorn (Thailand). Gold, Plants and fungi. Subject: Thismia thaithongiana. Location: Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak Province, Thailand.

Photo: Roy Wiesner (Israel). Gold, Urban Wildlife. Subject: Female sunbird. Location: Be'er Ora, Israel.

Photo: Amit Eshel (Israel). Gold, Animals in their habitat. Subject: Nubian Ibex. Location: Negev desert, Israel.

This year's awards received thousands of entries from photographers across six continents.

Photo: Miki Spitzer (Israel). Gold, Nature Art. Subject: Blue watery veins, glacial braids and golden sediment. Location: Iceland.

Photo: Philip Hamilton (UK). Silver, Underwater. Subject: Young humpback whale. Location: Kingdom of Tonga.

Photo: Kevin Blackwell (USA). Bronze, Behavior – Invertebrates. Subject: Cuckoo wasp, also called an emerald wasp (Chrysis angolensis). Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Photo: Thomas Vijayan (Canada). Silver, Animals in their habitat. Subject: Canadian lynx. Location: Canada.

Photo: Roman Willi (Switzerland). Silver, Urban Wildlife. Subject: Fox. Location: Lucerne, Switzerland.

A selection of the winning images is available for purchase in a special online shop.

Photo: Elizabeth Yicheng Shen (USA). Silver, Behavior – Mammals. Subject: A dead mule deer guarded by a bobcat. Location: Yellowstone National Park, USA.

Photo: Tom Way (UK). Silver, Black and white. Subject: Mother elephant and calf. Location: Amboseli National Park, Kenya.

Photo: Hira Punjabi (India). Bronze, People and nature. Subject: A boy chasing a swarm of locusts. Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India.

Photo: Robert J. Ross (USA). Silver, Nature Art. Subject: Aspen trees. Location: Aspen, Colorado, USA.

Photo: Lakshitha Karunarathhna (Sri Lanka). Silver, Behavior – Birds. Subject: Yellow-billed oxpecker sitting on an African water buffalo. Location: Kenya.

Photo: Karthik Ak (USA). Silver, Behavior – Amphibians and reptiles. Subject: A male night frog calling in front of a clutch of eggs. Location: Amboli, Maharashtra, India.

Photo: Michael Stavrakakis (Australia). Silver, Animal Portraits. Subject: Mother and infant gorilla. Location: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda.

Photo: Partha Roy (Singapore). Bronze, Animal Portraits. Subject: Himalayan griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis). Location: Chopta in Uttarakhand, India.

Photo: Lennart Stolte (Netherlands). Bronze, Nature photojournalism. Subject: Binturong kept in cage for production of kopi luwak coffee. Location: Sulawesi, Indonesia.

World Nature Photography Awards: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by the World Nature Photography Awards.

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As a pioneer of contemporary street art, the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat is a perfect match for the immediacy of Polaroid pictures. Now, the photography company has honored the legacy of this visionary creator with a collection that marries the signature elements of both Basquiat and Polaroid. This project features a camera, film, and a shoulder strap.

“We aim to pay tribute to Basquiat's influence, motivating us to embrace authenticity and spontaneity in our creativity,” says Polaroid chairman Oskar Smolokowski. “Andy Warhol and Maripol often photographed Basquiat on Polaroid film, capturing his essence, which in turn inspired Polaroid to curate this collection.” This series is part of a larger effort to celebrate creators who used instant photography to document their work, such as Warhol himself and David Bowie.

The star of the collection is a Polaroid Now Generation 2 i-Type Instant Camera covered in one of his most dynamic works, Boy and Dog in a Johnnypump, 1982. Since each piece is hydro-dipped, Polaroid states that no two cameras are ever the same. The device pairs perfectly with the limited-edition orange shoulder strap, which boasts elements from Untitled (Crown), 1982 and World Famous Vol. 1 Thesis, 1983.

The Color i-Type Film – Basquiat Edition serves as a mini gallery of the late artist. The packs contain eight of 10 unique collectable frames, each designed with a different Basquiat artwork. From the yellow tones of Hollywood Africans to the vividness of the  landmark work Bird on Money, each piece adds a new layer of spontaneity and vibrancy to the user's photographs.

“Inspired by the raw and unfiltered artistic style of Basquiat, this collection celebrates the shared commitment to authenticity, spontaneity, and embracing imperfections,” writes Polaroid. “Basquiat’s belief in beauty through improvisation aligns with the unpredictable nature of Polaroid photography, capturing genuine moments in their unedited form.”

You can order the Basquiat collection on Polaroid's website.

Polaroid has honored the legacy of Jean-Michel Basquiat with a new collection.

The Polaroid x Basquiat collection features a limited-edition camera, film, and a shoulder strap.

“Basquiat’s belief in beauty through improvisation aligns with the unpredictable nature of Polaroid photography, capturing genuine moments in their unedited form.”

The Color i-Type Film – Basquiat Edition serves as a mini gallery of the late artist. All packs contain 8 of 10 unique collectable frames, each one designed with a different Basquiat artwork.

Basquiat Polaroid Photographed by Sabrina Santiago

Basquiat Polaroid Photographed by Sabrina Santiago

Basquiat Polaroid Photographed by Sabrina Santiago

Basquiat Polaroid Photographed by Sabrina Santiago

Polaroid: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

All images via Polaroid.

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READ: Polaroid Honors Jean-Michel Basquiat With Vivid Camera and Film Collection

Photographer James Kerwin is known for his images documenting abandoned buildings worldwide. His latest series, The Sanctuary, takes him to Turkey, where he explores the abandoned mosques present in small villages across the country. Many of the structures are over 500 years old and have been left in favor of more modern spaces for worship. Thanks to Kerwin, we're able to appreciate their beauty and architectural detail.

To create the series, Kerwin, who is based in Istanbul, passed through approximately 18 towns and cities and visited over 40 villages, covering five of Turkey's seven vast regions. Each visit was truly an adventure, as Kerwin didn't know what he would find until he arrived at his destination.

“I never scouted the places prior in the flesh but tried to make sure there was at least some fairly recent news,” the photographer tells My Modern Met. “However, it failed with four of my top targets—I arrived, and they had vanished.”

Luckily, even with this hit-and-miss strategy, Kerwin found plenty of architecture to spark his creativity. As he's particularly inspired by color, he was pleasantly surprised to find many mosques retaining their vibrant interiors. His photography reminds us of the incredible artistry and craftsmanship that went into these religious structures and is an important testament to their existence.

Through this series, Kerwin hopes to share the rich heritage of Turkey and its architecture. To him, it's particularly important given that most tourists only visit a small fraction of the country.

Check out some of our favorite images from the series below and see the full gallery on Kerwin's website.

James Kerwin is known for his photography of abandoned spaces.

For his new series, The Sanctuary, he traveled across Turkey searching for abandoned mosques.

He visited over 40 villages and found some mosques that were over 500 years old.

Many of these spaces have been left behind in favor of modern places of worship.

But through his photographs, we can appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of the interiors.

Abandoned Mosque in Turkey by James Kerwin

James Kerwin: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by James Kerwin.

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READ: Photographer Documents Turkey’s Decadent Abandoned Mosques

Left: Private Richard Oliver of the 20th USCT (Picture courtesy of the Miller family) | Right: Jared Miller, the direct descendant of Richard Oliver

Photographer Drew Gardner has spent the last two decades on his ongoing series, The Descendants. In it, Gardner photographs people whose ancestors made an impact on history. By posing and styling them in the manner of their descendant, Gardner creates a bridge between past and present. While the series began in Europe, Gardner started focusing on North America after Smithsonian Magazine commissioned him to photograph the descendants of Thomas Jefferson, Frederick Douglass, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

This inspired him to delve deeply into the history of the United States and, in particular, the Civil War period. In doing so, he also aimed to balance the genders and races represented in the series. Rather than solely focusing on big names, Gardner has also started highlighting lesser-known figures, using the acclaim that his project receives to spotlight their contributions to history.

“So many families have stories to tell, and to try and bring those to the public's attention is important, I feel,” he tells My Modern Met. Many of the people featured in the Civil War series have ancestors who were members of the United States Colored Troops, or USCT. These regiments were an important part of the Union army and were mainly comprised of Black soldiers, many of whom were former slaves. By the end of the Civil War, there were 175 USCT regiments, and 16 members were awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.

As with all images in The Descendants, Gardner is meticulous in recreating the time period that he is capturing. Each descendant is outfitted with period-appropriate clothing and, in this case, photographed with a tintype camera to recreate the look and feel of the original photo. The results are a striking reminder of our past and an invitation to delve into our history in order to embrace both the good and the bad.

“Curiosity. Nothing more, nothing less,” states Gardner when asked what he hopes people will take away from these images. “If my work encourages others to ask questions about the past and how our society has been built, if only to themselves, then I feel that is a small success.”

Scroll down to see more Civil War descendants, as well as short videos explaining their roles in history and a behind-the-scenes look at the photo shoot.

Photographer Drew Gardner has been creating his ongoing series The Descendants, for two decades.

Left: Harriet Tubman | Right: Deanne Stanford Walz, great-niece of Harriet Tubman

Most recently, he's focused on highlighting Civil War descendants.

Left: Sgt. Major Lewis Douglass of the 54th Massachusetts USCT | Right: Austin Morris, direct descendant of Frederick Douglass (father of Lewis)

Left: David Miles Moore Jr., drummer boy in the 54th Mass | Right: Neikoye Flowers, direct descendant of David Miles Moore

The tintype photography mimics the original images, with Gardner focused on the contributions of lesser-known figures in history.

Left: Andrew Jackson Smith, who was awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor | Right: Kwesi Bowman, the direct descendant of Andrew Jackson Smith

Left: Private Louis Troutman of the 108th USCT (Image courtesy of Drew Gardner and used with permission of the Thomas Harris Collection) | Right: Christopher W. Wilson, the direct descendant of Louis Troutman

Through short videos, he shares a bit more about these people from the past and shows his creative process.

Drew Gardner: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Drew Gardner.

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READ: Powerful Side-by-Side Portraits of Civil War Heroes and Their Descendants

Acclaimed photographer Ami Vitale is extending a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for one female photographer. Organized by the non-profit Vital Impacts, which Vitale founded, the contest is giving one lucky winner a chance to travel to Antarctica on a 22-day Polar Latitudes expedition. Locations visited on the trip will include the Falkland Islands/Malvinas, South Georgia, and Antarctica.

The exceptional opportunity includes the 22-day trip (valued at $28,000), one roundtrip economy ticket to the departure point, airport transfer, shipboard food, and accommodations. Throughout the trip, the winner will be exposed to incredible photographic opportunities and learn about how Vital Impacts uses art to affect change.

“The decision to offer a trip to Antarctica to a female photographer stemmed from a deep-seated belief in the power of representation and inclusivity within the photography community,” Vitale tells My Modern Met. “Recognizing the field's historically male-dominated nature, I felt compelled to provide a platform specifically tailored to empower and showcase the remarkable talents of women photographers.

“This initiative is about more than just capturing stunning images—it's about sparking meaningful dialogue, fostering connections, and igniting a collective call to action for the preservation of our planet.  My goal is to equip participants with the essential storytelling tools needed to advocate for environmental conservation. In a world facing unprecedented challenges, it's crucial to harness the unique perspectives and voices of women in photography to amplify the urgency of our planet's plight.”

The trip departs on November 1, 2024, and the contest is open to anyone female identifying with a demonstratable interest and history in visual storytelling. The winner must also be at least 18 years old by October 31, 2024. Entrants who can show a specific leaning toward environmental stories will be given preference. For the full list of requirements, expenses—like insurance—and details, please see the contest page on Vital Impacts' website.

If you are interested in entering the contest, don't wait. Entries are being accepted until March 28, 2024. If you'd like to skip the contest and secure your spot with a 10% off early bird special, visit Polar Latitudes and use the code travelwithami.

“When women see others like them succeeding in photography, it inspires confidence and ambition, encouraging them to pursue their own creative aspirations without reservation,” shares Vitale when asked why she felt it was important to support women in the industry.

“We need diverse perspectives to enrich the art of photography. Women bring unique insights and experiences to their work, and by amplifying these voices, we ensure that a wider range of narratives is represented in visual media.

“Ultimately, supporting female photographers is not just about gender equality—it's about recognizing and celebrating their immense talent, creativity, and contributions to the world. It's about creating a more equitable and inclusive industry where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Renowned photographer Ami Vitale is offering one female identifying photographer the trip of a lifetime.

Her non-profit Vital Impacts is offering an opportunity to travel to Antarctica on a 22-day expedition.

The trip, valued at $28,000, is open to anyone over 18 who is interested in visual storytelling.

“Women bring unique insights and experiences to their work, and by amplifying these voices, we ensure that a wider range of narratives is represented in visual media.”

Anyone interested has until March 28, 2024, to enter the contest on Vital Impacts.

Vital Impacts: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Vital Impacts.

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“I love you with every atom. You are the tranquility of a calm stream and the excitement of a waterfall. You bring me all my favorite feelings. Forever isn’t long enough with you.” Hope (she / her / he / him), 16, and Kurt (he / him), 17 Homer, Alaska.
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Photographer Barbara Peacock has spent the last seven years traveling across the United States to get a glimpse inside our most intimate space—the bedroom. By photographing people from all walks of life in a room where they are their most vulnerable, Peacock paints a picture of modern America. Her forthcoming book, American Bedroom, is the culmination of this project.

My Modern Met first covered Peacock's series in 2017, just one year after she started her adventure. At the time, she was discovering the importance of listening to people and being let into their homes, and hoped to expand her work to the entire nation. Nearly a decade later, she accomplished her goal.

“I am learning that there are a lot of lonely people. I am learning that people have stories they want to share if someone will listen,” she shared at the time. “I am learning that people are fragile and conversely very strong.”

Published by Kehrer Verlag, American Bedroom incorporates quotes by the people Peacock photographed. This is a testament to the strong collaboration and bond between Peacock and the participants and to the photographer's belief in the power of their stories. Broken into five sections, the book shows the wide variety of people Peacock photographed. Americans of all ages, genders, races, and sexual orientations sat for Peacock and, in doing so, opened themselves up to demonstrate the many faces of the country.

Peacock's work also shows that home means different things to many people. A school bus and the great outdoors are just some of the spaces where people have carved out their bedrooms. But regardless of where people's bedrooms are located, Peacock's work shows that we aren't so different from one another. Many of us carry the same hopes, dreams, and struggles and use the bedroom as a sanctuary to rest and recharge.

“I believe the bedroom is not just a private place, but a sacred place,” Peacock shares. “We build it as a shrine to our lives (even if houseless) and spend nearly one-third of our lives in it. It exemplifies our being; it is a place to rest, to love, to comfort, to be, to give life, to restore, to recover, to grieve, to lay sick, and to die. The one thing I know for certain is that all lives are important, and everyone has a story to tell.”

American Bedroom by Barbara Peacock will be released on May 14, 2024, and is now available for pre-sale.

For seven years, photographer Barbara Peacock traveled across the U.S. to photograph people in their bedrooms.

“Endless possibilities and adventure! We sold our home and just about everything we owned three years ago. Little did we know what awaited us on the open road … freedom unlike anything we had ever had while on a quest to find a new place and community to call home.” Stephanie, 37. The Mathews Family Saratoga Springs, Utah.

“With the world moving ever so fast, these apples of my eye remind me to slow down and see the beauty in all things. They are the light.” Jamie, 44. The Seh-Nielsen Family Victor, Idaho.

American Bedroom is an unguarded look at people from all walks of life in their most intimate space.

“Our world revolves around autism and the whole family struggles to keep up. But it’s our hearts that keep us together and our large family bed where every night we reconnect. Nobody can love our family like we do.” Jordan, 35

“Love is accrescent. If you choose to love, there is no end to how big and all-encompassing it can grow. We choose to love each other daily and will keep choosing to love as we push on into the future. Micah, 35, and Kody, 40. Omaha, Nebraska.

“I believe the bedroom is not just a private place, but a sacred place,” Peacock shares.

“In the end, it’s all about love of family and one another.” Francisca, 42, and Lupe, 52, Guadalupe, Arizona.

“Finding love late in life has taught me many lessons, including not to be shy or embarrassed by my body. It is freeing to say I am big, bold, and beautiful. Laverne, 72, and James, 74 Big Stone Gap, Virginia.

Peacock photographed people of all ages, races, genders, and sexual orientations for the series.

“I have buried all seven of my children (sons) from alcoholism or heat stroke. I now live for my grandchildren.” Arlene, 81. Gila River Reservation, Arizona.

“While my physical parts feel safe among my living space, rested against a pillow, my heart yearns for my home, my community, our land. ‘Nunamnni – on our land (Siberian Yupik)'.” Mek, 29 Anchorage, Alaska

By telling their stories, she reminds us that many of us face the same struggles or share the same dreams.

“I’ve been sleeping in the grass between the trees, sky, and by the ocean for six years now. My body and soul are clean. When I go I leave no trace.” Jeremiah, 45. Kauai, Hawaii.

“When I wake in the morning, I try to be quiet so I don’t wake her. Then I remember she is no longer here.” Pepere, 88, Jay, Maine.

American Bedroom by Barbara Peacock is now available for pre-order.

Barbara Peacock: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to use images by Barbara Peacock.

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