The 2024 Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA), renowned as the world’s richest photography competition, celebrated its $1 million Sustainability-themed awards in a stunning ceremony at Dubai’s Museum of the Future. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum, representing the UAE’s dedication to the arts and environmental awareness, presented the prestigious trophies to the winning photographers, who were selected from blind submissions from 205 countries.
This 13th season of HIPA, launched in 2011 by the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, has continued its tradition of spotlighting global talent while emphasizing urgent themes. The award-winning photos reveal powerful narratives of sustainability, offering a glimpse into the inspiring ways photographers worldwide are capturing humanity’s connection with nature.
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#1. Grand Prize ($200,000): “Quiet Power” by Liping Cao, China
“Amidst the vast Australian landscape, a serene black-and-white scene unfolds where nature meets technology. Towering wind turbines rise prominently against the horizon, their blades slowly turning in the breeze, embodying the quiet power of renewable energy. Behind them, a dramatic sky features billowing clouds that shift and change, creating a dynamic backdrop. The dry riverbed below the turbines adds depth while serving as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in a world facing environmental challenges.”
#2. Sustainability 1st Prize ($40,000): “Harnessing the Sun” by Ruijuan Huang, China
“An aerial view of Shixing County showcases an impressive expanse of solar panels strategically placed across the lush hills of Guangdong Province. The vibrant green landscape contrasts with the sleek, blue solar arrays, highlighting the integration of technology and nature. Winding paths flow through the installation, illustrating the proactive approach to solar energy generation in the area. Bathed in warm sunlight, this expansive array of panels generates clean energy while supporting the local community’s commitment to sustainable development, exemplifying the region’s efforts to harness abundant solar resources for a greener future.”