The winners of the 13th annual Mobile Photography Awards showcase the potential of phones and tablets as sophisticated imaging tools that have democratized fine-art photography. Started in 2011, the juried awards are open exclusively to photographs shot and edited on mobile devices. Yajun Hu, a systems engineer from Shanghai, China, won the grand prize with his captivating street shots that capture the unexpected in urban life.
Hu, who shot the winning images with a Xiaomi Ultra 13, first started snapping street scenes in 2015. His work harnesses the interplay of light, shadows, colors, and silhouettes to create striking images. The MPA founder, Daniel Berman, sees AI as a tool for creative artists in the contest, allowing for the use of AI in one digital art category. The contest aims to amplify the power and potential of mobile photography, showcasing the evolution of the medium.
The MPA features various categories, including portraits, landscapes, architecture, and digital art, allowing for a diverse range of entries. Berman emphasizes the importance of validating photos, asking entrants to submit untouched originals with metadata to ensure the authenticity of the entries. With over 7,000 images from more than 80 countries submitted for the latest round of the competition, the MPA continues to celebrate and recognize the talent of mobile photographers worldwide.
The winners of the Mobile Photography Awards represent a diverse range of styles and subjects captured using mobile devices. The contest provides a platform for photographers and artists who have embraced mobile photography to showcase their work on an international stage. With the opportunity to win cash prizes and recognition, the MPA continues to inspire and encourage photographers to explore the creative possibilities of mobile photography.
As mobile photography continues to evolve and gain recognition as a legitimate art form, the MPA celebrates the unique perspectives and talents of mobile photographers worldwide. The contest’s commitment to showcasing the power and potential of mobile photography highlights the democratizing effect of technology on the art world. Entries for the 2024 contest are currently being accepted, providing an opportunity for photographers to share their work and be recognized for their creative vision.
