Hasselblad Masters 2026 Finalist Accused of Using AI Image
Hasselblad Masters 2026, the first edition since 2023, announced 70 finalists but quickly faced controversy when a finalist in the Street category was accused of submitting an AI-generated image. The image, visible in public voting and a YouTube Short, shows telltale signs like garbled text on a Coca-Cola bottle and missing table legs. Reddit and Instagram users overwhelmingly criticized the inclusion. Hasselblad stated that AI is prohibited and that all shortlisted works undergo verification, including RAW file submission. The company is conducting further reviews and will revoke the qualification if a violation is confirmed. The grand jury did not select finalists; that was done internally. Over 108,000 images were entered. The incident raises concerns about fairness to the other 69 finalists, including Olivier Caune, and casts doubt on the competition's integrity. Final winners are to be announced in late June.
Key facts
- Hasselblad Masters 2026 announced 70 finalists.
- A finalist in the Street category is accused of using generative AI.
- The AI image shows garbled text on a Coca-Cola bottle and missing table legs.
- The image was featured in a YouTube Short and public voting.
- Reddit post garnered over 600 upvotes and 160+ comments.
- Hasselblad prohibits AI and requires RAW file submission.
- Hasselblad is conducting further reviews and may revoke qualification.
- The grand jury did not select finalists; internal jury did.
- Over 108,000 images were entered.
- Final winners to be announced in late June.
Entities
Artists
- Olivier Caune
Institutions
- Hasselblad
- PetaPixel
- Sony World Photography Awards