The Abbey Road Music Photography Awards have revealed their shortlist for 2026, highlighting iconic performances and cultural milestones from the past year. Organizers reviewed more than 24,500 entries submitted by photographers representing 42 nations before narrowing the field down to 40 finalists spread across eight distinct categories.
Among the most high-profile contenders is a striking live music capture of Liam Gallagher brandishing his signature tambourine while interacting with ecstatic Oasis supporters at Wembley Stadium. Another standout image features both Liam and Noel Gallagher sharing an unspoken moment on stage away from their microphones during a major performance on their recent reunion tour.
The competitive shortlist also includes a dramatic snapshot of Charli XCX setting fire to her trademark green "Brat" flag at Glastonbury Festival, symbolizing the closing chapter of a massively influential cultural cycle. Additional nominated frames capture major global artists such as Kendrick Lamar performing during his prominent Super Bowl halftime production, Fontaines DC performing live against an Irish festival backdrop, and Tame Impala's Kevin Parker finding a quiet moment during a video shoot.
Head judge and renowned British photographer Rankin remarked that the current competition represents the highest quality collection in the five-year history of the awards. He praised the finalists for demonstrating exceptional technical skill alongside genuine emotional depth and creative vision.
The judging panel features a diverse mix of creative talent from across the arts, including Grammy-winning musician Nile Rogers and acclaimed vocalist Raye. Alongside the main competitive tracks, special judges' selections highlight work dedicated to artists like FKA Twigs, while a dedicated guest category commemorates half a century of punk music history.
All 40 finalist photographs will be exhibited publicly in the LED pedestrian tunnel at the Outernet London entertainment complex from September 8 through September 14. This public display includes the five specific images competing for the fan-voted music moment of the year honor, with voting open online through the official competition portals as well as in person at the exhibition.
The official winners will be unveiled during a gala ceremony on September 24 hosted at London's historic Abbey Road Studios, the legendary recording facility immortalized by the Beatles in 1969. Special industry recognitions will also be presented during the evening to veteran photographers Roberta Bayley and Masayoshi Sukita for their contributions to the medium.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.
