Calling all music photographers — entries for the Abbey Road Music Photography Awards are now open

May 31, 2024

Today, the iconic Abbey Road Studios has announced that its Music Photography Awards are back for their third instalment. And as the home of that shot of The Beatles, there’s nowhere better to host the only global competition of its kind. Last year, the awards inspired over 16,000 photographers from 30 countries to submit their snaps. A couple of highlights from 2023 include self-proclaimed ‘art school reject’ Chris Allmeid’s brooding shot of Lil Uzi Vert, as well as Anthony Pham’s colourful capturing of none other than Harry Styles.

This year, there’s six categories open to all, and three where winners are nominated by the judging panel themselves — you can find out more about all of that, here.

Speaking of judges, the 2024 lineup is headed by Rankin, as well as myriad of music-snapping legends. US talent comes from Raven B Varona (who shot Adele) and Pooneh Ghana (The Strokes), while the home turf is represented by Ashley Verse (Stormzy), Sam Rockman (Olivia Rodrigo), and Simon Wheatley (Skepta). You can also expect input from Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson, Mercury-nominee Moses Boyd, and drag queen-cum-artist Bimini. Vanity Fair’s David Friend, fashion icon Beth Ditto, and Decca Records’ Rachel Holmberg will also be on hand to offer their expert eye.

While entries open today (and close on the 18th July), the awards themselves will take place at Abbey Road on 3 October. There are also some brilliant prizes up for grabs – they include mentoring by Rankin and Rolling Stone’s deputy photo editor and photographer Sacha Lecca. There’s also spots at expos up for grabs, as well as some exciting photoshoot ops.

It all speaks to Abbey Road’s dedication to championing artists at all stages of their journey and from all different backgrounds — something Rankin himself is also keen to promote. “Now in our third year, I’m incredibly excited to see what we can expect from the 2024 entrants,” he says. “We want to find and recognise the emerging, undiscovered and established talent that exists in music photography, as well as shine a light on photographers of all backgrounds. Once again, I will be giving one photographer the opportunity to win a day’s mentorship with me on a shoot.”