Explore Striking Black and White Photography from the APOY 2026 Shortlist

The Black and White category of the International Amateur Photographer of the Year (APOY) 2026 competition has recognized a wealth of remarkable imagery, highlighting outstanding submissions that didn't quite make the top ten. This month, we focus on these standout entries, which reflect the creativity and talent of participating photographers. Such competitions often reveal not just individual artistry but broader trends in photographic techniques and interpretation—a reflection of what resonates in contemporary visual culture.

About APOY: An Inclusive Platform for Emerging Talent

APOY is a platform where non-professional photographers compete across ten rounds throughout the year, each with a different thematic category. This ongoing competition welcomes entries from individuals aged 13–21 in the Young Amateur Photographer of the Year category, with no entry fees involved. This accessibility is vital for fostering a new generation of photographers. By removing financial barriers, APOY ensures that budding artists from diverse backgrounds can share their visions.

The competition's structure encourages continuous engagement and growth, as participants must adapt to various themes and challenges over the course of the year. Each round not only tests technical skills but also pushes entrants to think creatively about how to express ideas through their lenses. Given the platform's reputation, emerging photographers often find that participating can significantly enhance their profile in the industry.

Highlighted Entries from APOY 2026

Lady of the Manure by Eden Antho, Milan

Camera Specs: NIKON D7000, 10.0-24.0 mm at 16mm, 1/40 sec, f/8, ISO 200

Selected by: Peter Dench, APOY project manager. Peter remarks on the enigmatic nature of Antho's image, which presents a pristine white cow in an elaborate pavilion. The photograph embraces surrealism, prompting questions and inviting viewers to craft their own stories. The architectural symmetry along with the cow's poised stance beneath the captivating roof creates a visually striking contrast that strongly resonates, demonstrating the power of balance and simplicity in photography. The incorporation of such a peaceful subject in a highly ornate setting raises interesting questions about the dialogue between nature and human artistry.

Morning Mist by Charles Ashton, Pershore

Camera Specs: Nikon Z8, Z 14-24mm f/2.8, 1/125 sec, f/16, ISO 140

Selected by: Nigel Atherton, editor. Ashton captures an atmospheric moment during an early morning walk along Shanghai's Bund. This remarkable shot emphasizes the lone silhouette against a backdrop of iconic skyscrapers, effectively utilizing black and white to highlight shapes and contours. The low light and mist serve to amplify the drama of the scene, while the composition leverages a wide angle to draw the viewer's eye into the frame. What this translates to is a narrative about solitude amid the bustling energy of a major city, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of isolation in urban environments.

Q by David Davies, Penarth

Camera Specs: SONY DSC-RX10M4, 8.8-220.0 mm at 62mm, 1/1000 sec, f/5, ISO 100

Selected by: Amy Davies, features editor. Davies describes "Q" as an engaging and distinctive capture, intriguing enough to stop viewers mid-scroll. The image's mystery lies in the humor and oddity found within ordinary life, offering a twist where the subject's legs create a 'Q' form. The reduction to black and white allows viewers to focus on shapes and textures without distraction, emphasizing the artistic form of the photograph. This shift in focus is often overlooked in favor of color, but here it elevates the role of contrast in achieving a compelling composition.

Flight Pattern by Mats Carduner, Paris

Camera Specs: LEICA Q (Typ 116), 28.0 mm, 1/1000 sec, f/6.328, ISO 100

Selected by: Jessica Miller, deputy online editor. Carduner’s image captures a skateboarder mid-jump, creating a moment of dynamic action and balance all at once. This decisive moment is perfectly frame-worthy, and the monochrome palette emphasizes the forms and shadows without the interference of color. Black and white provides clarity, drawing attention to the technique and relationship between the two skaters within the scene. Photos in this style can often serve as metaphors for the balance of life itself, capturing fleeting moments when everything seems to align perfectly.

United by Deborah Hutt, Birmingham

Selected by: Geoff Harris, deputy editor. Hutt beautifully captures a moment of harmony between two dancers in mid-air. The strong composition and use of light showcases their form and movement effectively. While the subject matter may not be entirely unique, Harris commends the technical precision and traditional approach that brings out the drama and energy of the performance. Capturing dance in black and white can heighten emotional resonance, allowing viewers to appreciate not just the movement but also the intensity of the performers’ expressions. It’s a reminder of how form can communicate feeling beyond mere color.

Additional Notable Entries

These images from the APOY 2026 shortlist illustrate the diverse techniques and creative perspectives that make the black and white medium so engaging. Each piece serves as a reminder of the potential storytelling and artistic expression achievable through this classic format. The significance of such works transcends aesthetic appeal; they provoke thought and evoke emotion, inviting the audience to engage more deeply with the art of photography.

Future Outlook for Amateur Photographers

The ongoing changes in photography—both in technology and in the way images are shared—suggest exciting times ahead for amateur photographers. With platforms like APOY promoting diverse voices and perspectives, the landscape of photography will likely continue to shift, giving rise to new movements and styles. If you're working in this space, the implications are enormous: the potential for exposure, opportunities to connect with other creatives, and even the chance to shape the future of photography through your unique lens.

The future may very well echo the themes presented in the current entries—simplicity in design, emotional depth, and a focus on the human experience. As new technologies emerge and social media platforms evolve, amateur photographers should see this as an invitation to experiment and innovate. For those interested in showcasing their work, entries for APYO 2026 are open and welcome fresh perspectives from emerging photographers.