Black & White Award Editors’ Picks of June 2024

Following the results of the last Black & White Photography Award, judged by renowned Japanese photographer Tatsuo Suzuki, the editorial team wants to share some of the competition entries that didn’t make it to the final selection.

The quality of entries was incredibly high, and we were hugely impressed by the talent on display! Photographers responded to the theme in a myriad of ways, from classic documentaries to street captures, fine art, and conceptual portraiture. Although they didn’t make the final cut, these photographs showcase the enduring power of monochromatic photography, and we believe are thoroughly deserving of exposure.

“Queen To Be” - Benin
In Benin, communities are mostly matriarchal. Young girls are nominated by an oracle, who then asks the queen’s mother, in a spirit-summoning ceremony, to make a final selection of her successor. © Antonio Avelar
“Scared surfaces”
The weathered land and sculptures of the south west of the USA. © Craig McGowan
“ISBJØRN” - Svalbard Islands
Black and white portrait of a majestic polar bear wandering on the pack ice of the Svalbard Islands. Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole. One of the world’s northernmost inhabited areas, it’s known for its rugged, remote terrain of glaciers and frozen tundra sheltering polar bears, Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes. © Dario Maschietti
“Stare at the sun”
During a recent total solar eclipse, I went to a nearby school to capture the children’s reactions to the eclipse. Teachers made these clever masks for the children to keep their glasses fixed to their face, which actually made their reactions that much more expressive. © Brian Bobel
“Crows” - Ubaye valley, France
The Ubaye valley is located in the heart of the Southern Alps. The region is influenced by the Alps and the Mediterranean. © Vincent Bargin
“Bagan Wheel Labour” - Bagan, Myanmar
A wagon wheel for an ox cart is being repaired by workers in Minnanthu Village in Bagan, Myanmar. Set amidst the archeological ruins of the Plain of Bagan, the tiny Minnanthu Village retains the traditional way of life. © Thaveechai Sirikulthada
“Kelso Dunes take 2” - Mojave Desert, California
Photo taken of my mother early this year. Our second time driving out to the desert to just create. Shot on Cinestill. © Sophia Tatum
“Sliding Stop”
An American Quarter horse is performing a sliding stop, the most spectacular maneuver in reining. © Giacomo Zanello
“Alam and the snake”
Alam, a young model is holding a baby snake in his hand. © Rona Bar And Ofek Avshalom
“Holi” - India
Holi is a festival, played in different states, cities, and villages with their unique and innovative playing style but, the spirit of Holy remains the same throughout India. It is the festival that generates the spirit of brotherhood, purity, and unity in diversity in the country. © Santanu Bose
"Rikishi Clash” - Tokyo, Japan
The Tokyo Grand Sumo is a wonderful event, steep in ceremony and tradition. Rikishi slam into each other for 15 days, testing each other’s ability and crowning one Grand Champion at the end of the festival. © Ian Goddard
“Transformation” - Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s transformation from a fishing village to an economic and social hub has been remarkable. Once a small community centered around fishing and trading activities, Hong Kong has evolved into a global financial and commercial powerhouse. © Wai Yin Poon

Published July 30, 2024 - Congratulations to all selected artists: Antonio Avelar, Craig McGowan, Dario Maschietti, Brian Bobel, Vincent Bargin, Thaveechai Sirikulthada, Sophia Tatum, Giacomo Zanello, Rona Bar And Ofek Avshalom, Santanu Bose, Ian Goddard, Wai Yin Poon,

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2026 Portrait AWARD

Win $2,700 Cash Awards & International Exposure

Can you tell a story with a single glance? – in May, we invite all photographers to share portraits that narrate compelling tales, whether captured in the controlled environment of a studio, the vibrant chaos of the street, or the rich landscapes of travel.