Hunter Photography Prize Finalists Announced: Public Voting Now Open
The Hunter Photography Prize has officially closed its entries for 2026, revealing a stunning collection of finalists that showcase the region's photographic talent. With the competition now in its final stages, the community is invited to participate in selecting the People's Choice winner.
Judging Panel and Competition Details
A distinguished panel of judges from the Newcastle Herald will determine the overall winner. The judging team includes acclaimed photographers Peter Lorimer and Jonathan Carroll, alongside editorial leaders Lisa Allan (Editor), Matt Carr (Senior Deputy Editor), and Deborah Richards (Sunday and Opinion Editor).
While the judges deliberate on their selection, the public now has the opportunity to influence the outcome through the People's Choice category. Community members can view the gallery of finalist images and cast their votes in the online poll.
Voting Information and Prize Details
Voting for the People's Choice award will remain open until midnight on Thursday, January 29, 2026. The competition offers substantial prizes to support photographers in developing their craft:
- The judges' selection will receive an $1100 voucher at Harvey Norman for photography equipment
- The People's Choice winner will be awarded a $900 voucher for the same purpose
Both winners will have their work featured in the Newcastle Herald on Saturday, January 31, 2026, providing valuable exposure within the local community.
Community Engagement and Regional Focus
This annual competition celebrates the photographic talent within the Hunter region, encouraging both amateur and professional photographers to capture the area's unique character. The backyard photographer theme emphasizes accessible photography that anyone can participate in, regardless of equipment or experience level.
The Newcastle Herald's involvement underscores the publication's commitment to supporting local arts and community engagement. By including both expert judging and public voting components, the competition balances professional assessment with community participation.
Photography enthusiasts across the Hunter region are encouraged to examine the finalist gallery carefully before casting their votes. The winning images will not only receive recognition and prizes but will also contribute to documenting and celebrating the visual identity of the Hunter community.
