The winners of the 14th cycle of the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktouam International Photography Award, themed 'Power', have been announced. The award features three special categories: 'Content Creators Award', 'HIPA Photographer of the Year', and the 'Special Recognition Award'.
The 'HIPA Photographer of the Year' award was won by Omani photographer Salem Al-Hajri. He was honored for his projects that tell impactful visual stories aimed at preserving Omani and Arab cultural heritage. His work embodies the region's rich identity with vibrant and emotionally resonant images, linking ancient traditions to contemporary narratives, in addition to his ongoing constructive efforts to provide growth and development opportunities for Omani and Gulf photographers.
The 'Special Recognition Award' was presented to renowned American photographer Rick Smolan for his significant contributions as a photographer, author, and highly influential speaker, having won numerous prestigious awards and accolades. Some of his books are considered among the most influential, and he has been credited with drawing global attention to important humanitarian issues.
The 'Content Creators Award' went to American photographer and director Mark Smith, who is one of the world's leading bird photographers and life and habitat experts. His work has garnered over two billion views, and he is a prominent environmental activist. His publications are highly popular for training in bird photography and understanding their complex lives.
Ali Khalifa Al-Tamimi, the Secretary-General of the award, stated: "We are delighted to announce the winners of the special categories, who have made an impactful and contemporary photographic contribution that addresses the priority issues of the environment, humanity, and society."
On November 11th, the winners of all categories of the 14th cycle will be honored at the highly anticipated event at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. This is the annual event that photography communities around the world look forward to, and is considered the 'Oscar of Photography' by many international icons and judges.
