Few contemporary photographers inspire wanderlust like Pia Riverola—judge of our 2025 Color Award—whose dreamy, pastel-hued images beautifully convey the essence of each scene.

Judge of our 2025 Street Photography Award, Mikko Takkunen, is a Finnish-born, New York City-based photographer and Photo Editor at The New York Times. We sat down with him to discuss his professional journey, his dual role as an editor and photographer, and what he looks for when reviewing images.