LONDON, Sept. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – The World Food Photography Awards, sponsored by Tenderstem® and recognized as the greatest global celebration of food photography, are now open for entries for their highly anticipated 2026 edition.
Now in its 15th year, the competition invites both amateur and professional photographers to share their unique food stories from around the world. From landscapes and portraits to travel, weddings, and photojournalism, the Awards celebrate the universal power of food imagery to inspire, connect, and tell stories that transcend cultures.
The winner of the top prize of £5,000 (GBP) will see their work showcased at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London, while a hand-selected group of finalist images will also be displayed at the iconic Fortnum & Mason store in Piccadilly, London.
“Food is the drumbeat of life – too much, too little, harvest, drought, beauty and horror – it binds us all,” said Caroline Kenyon, Founder of the Awards. “Nothing tells these important stories more powerfully than the images photographers send us from around the world.”
New Categories and Partnerships
With over 25 categories, the Awards recognize food’s many dimensions — from growing, harvesting, and cooking to eating, celebrating, and surviving.
This year introduces two new initiatives:
- Food as Home (in partnership with UK for UNHCR), open to entrants with lived experience of displacement due to conflict or persecution, spotlighting images that reveal how food evokes a sense of home.
- An exciting new award in partnership with M&S Food, with details to be announced soon.
Global Jury of Culinary and Creative Icons
The 2026 judging panel will be chaired by legendary food photographer David Loftus and features an impressive lineup of culinary and creative leaders, including:
- Jan Hendrick van der Westhuizen, Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur
- Tom Athron, CEO, Fortnum & Mason
- Rein Skullerud, Senior Photographer & Photo Editor, World Food Programme
- Jamie Oliver, chef, restaurateur, and food campaigner
Inspiring Stories from Past Finalists
“Entering this competition is a great way to challenge yourself, gain exposure, and connect with an inspiring community of creatives,” said Jasmina Kazemier, a previous finalist. “Even if you don’t win, you gain clarity on your style, push yourself creatively, and put your name on the radar.”
“This competition ranks among the most prestigious photographic awards globally,” said Louise Rayner, another finalist. “I nearly didn’t enter, but a last-minute submission with a photo I’d taken on my phone ended up reaching the finals. You never know what can happen.”
Call for Entries
Photographers worldwide are encouraged to enter by Sunday, 8 February 2026.
For more details and to submit entries, visit www.worldfoodphotographyawards.com.
