Capturing the perfect image of a pet is a notoriously difficult task, but the victors of the 2026 International Pet Photography Awards have demonstrated that the challenge can be met with exceptional skill. Established in 2019 by Australian photographers and educators Charlotte Reeves and Craig Turner-Bullock, the competition has since evolved into the largest professional pet photography awards program in the world.
This year’s contest saw an impressive turnout, drawing more than 4,200 submissions from photographers across 48 countries. A panel of 27 judges evaluated the entries, ultimately bestowing the competition's highest honor, International Pet Photographer of the Year, upon Australian photographer Callie Soden. In addition to the top prize, Soden secured victories in both the Studio and Creative categories.
The awards span 12 distinct categories, ranging from Action, Canine Portrait, and Feline Portrait to Documentary, Pets & People, and Rescue. The 2026 edition also introduced four new categories: Phone, In-Camera Artistry, Commissioned Portfolio, and Studio. While category winners are determined by the combined scores of their three highest-rated images, the overall Photographer of the Year title is awarded based on the highest scores across five photos from any category.
The competition showcases a diverse array of subjects, including dogs, cats, horses, owls, frogs, rabbits, and even a photogenic cow. Many participants utilize unique techniques to capture their subjects; for instance, photographer Glomb utilized her car headlights to illuminate a dynamic shot of her rescue dog, Schnuffi, for the Action category. Similarly, Belinda Richards produced a playful portfolio featuring a cat named Moosha, noting that the series was born from a simple lighting test that evolved into a personality-driven showcase. Open Portrait winner Jennifer Chassagnol emphasized the mission behind the photography, stating that the images are intended to inspire a deeper appreciation and respect for all animals, particularly those that are frequently overlooked. Full details and a video featuring the top 100 entries are available on the official winners' page.
