Punk is more than a genre. It’s an attitude. A refusal to conform. Born in small venues and DIY spaces, it challenged convention and gave a voice to those on the margins. Over five decades, it has shaped sound, style, politics and identity around the world.

This category invites images from any year that capture the true spirit of punk - its rebellion and sense of community. From iconic performances to intimate basement shows, from chaotic live moments to powerful portraits, we’re looking for photographs that embody its enduring impact.

Dig through your archives. Open the photo boxes. Revisit the gigs that changed everything.

Prize: The winner will receive a one-to-one virtual mentoring session with an established photographer, tailored to their practice.

The connection between artist and audience, the stories unfolding in the crowd, the raw and unscripted beauty that defines festival season.

From mud-soaked fields to glamping escapes. Front-row chaos to back-row awe, and day time sets to fireworks finales. Festivals create space for everyone and every experience is different.

This is about community. Movement. Shared moments. Show us what makes festivals so special around the world.

Prize: Built to support a music photographer in demanding live music environments, the winner will select up to £5,000 worth of camera equipment tailored to their practice. The chosen kit will be delivered by DHL, demonstrating their role as the logistics company for the world by connecting creators with the tools that power their craft anywhere in the globe.

This category is open to photographers who are just beginning to secure press passes and work in professional music photography. If you are still developing your style and finding your confidence, this is for you.

We are not looking for the biggest names or the most famous acts. We are looking for technique, imagination, storytelling and a distinct creative voice. The strength of your portfolio matters more than your access.

You don’t need the most expensive gear or years of experience, just a strong eye and something to say.

Prize: A tailored photographer development prize, supported by adidas.

This is a visual statement of the year in music. A moment frozen in time, capturing the mood, the energy and the cultural pulse of 2025. It could be a triumphant headline performance, a powerful statement, an intimate onstage exchange, a historic reunion, a breakthrough artist stepping into the spotlight, or a quiet moment that unexpectedly resonated around the world.

Could your image be remembered for generations to come?

Prize: Step into the spotlight with a one-week takeover of the iconic Pop Two space on the world-famous screens at Outernet London. This incredible opportunity allows you to showcase an exclusive exhibition right in the heart of central London, UK.

The die-hard fans. The late-night ticket queues. The outfits planned for weeks. Cheers and tears. Sweat and sways. Moments of connection.

We’re looking for photographs that capture the emotional pull of live performance - between artist and audience.

Prize: The winner will receive two one-to-one virtual mentoring sessions: a session with a Senior Hydro Flask Creative, and a session with an established photographer, tailored to their practice.

From gothic and industrial to noise rock - to grime, Afrobeats, Amapiano, queer club scenes, and visual kei. This category is about the communities building culture from the ground up.

Many global artists started on small stages, in less known venues, in front of small crowds.

We want images that document: DIY spaces, Intimate crowds, Subcultural identity, Independent spirit, Raw, alternative energy.

Prize: Four personalised virtual mentoring sessions with renowned photographer and guest judge, Simon Wheatley.

This category captures music in the making.

We’re looking for: Raw moments, Creative collaboration, Authentic process, Imperfect, real environments.

Prize: An exclusive exhibition in the corridor gallery of the iconic Abbey Road.

A portrait in music can take many forms. An album cover or a press shot. It could be a candid moment on a tour bus, an artist getting ready backstage, or a bold conceptual setup in the studio.

There are no strict rules. Portraits can be stylised or spontaneous, polished or raw. What matters is presence - the ability of the image to reveal something true about the artist and the world they’re creating.

Prize: An incredible opportunity to have their photography work featured in Hunger Magazine, in response to a creative brief set by MPA head judge Rankin. The work will appear as a digital cover and inside spread, subject to the final format agreed by Rankin and Hunger Magazine.