Sony World Photography Awards Overhauls Categories for 20th Edition

The Sony World Photography Awards have announced major structural changes for their 20th anniversary edition in 2027. The Open competition is renamed 'Single Image' and the Professional competition becomes 'Series.' Photographers can now enter both competitions simultaneously, a restriction previously in place. Two new categories debut: Animal Portraits in Single Image and Histories in Series. The Student and Youth competitions return. Top prizes include $25,000, global exhibitions, a solo London display, and Sony equipment. Entry is free and open to all photographers regardless of equipment brand. Deadlines begin November 27 for Student entries, with further deadlines on January 5 and January 12, 2027.