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World Sports Photography Awards 2026 opens for entries and is after young blood

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, October 2nd 2025 at 5:05 GMT by digitalcameraworld
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Canon Joins Forces with the World Sports Photography Awards – 2026 Entries Now Open

Canon’s long‑standing commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling has taken a new turn with the announcement that the company will partner with the World Sports Photography Awards (WSPA) for its 2026 competition cycle. The partnership marks a significant milestone for both brands, underscoring Canon’s position as a leading provider of camera technology for the most demanding moments in sport, while giving the WSPA a powerful platform to reach a broader, global audience of photographers.

What Are the World Sports Photography Awards?

The WSPA is a globally recognised competition that celebrates the art and craft of sports photography. Since its inception, the awards have attracted thousands of entries from professional, semi‑professional and enthusiast photographers alike. The competition is divided into ten distinct categories – ranging from “Action” and “Portrait” to “Digital and Traditional Print” – each of which is judged on a combination of technical excellence, composition, storytelling, and originality.

Over the years the WSPA has been a launchpad for emerging talent and a platform for seasoned professionals to showcase their best work. Past winners have gone on to shoot for major sports publications, major events (such as the Olympics and FIFA World Cup), and commercial campaigns for brands such as Nike, Adidas and Red Bull.

Canon’s Role as Official Camera Partner

Under the partnership, Canon will act as the official camera and imaging equipment sponsor for the 2026 competition. In practical terms, this means:

• Exclusive Gear Availability – Photographers who reach the final stages of the competition will have access to the latest Canon DSLR and mirrorless bodies, lenses and accessories, all at heavily discounted rates. In addition, Canon will supply a “Canon Award Kit” – a curated set of gear that participants can use during the competition’s final rounds.
• Technical Support and Workshops – Canon’s team of photographers and technicians will conduct a series of online and in‑person workshops in the lead‑up to the competition. These sessions will cover camera settings, image optimisation, colour science, and post‑processing techniques tailored to high‑speed sports events.
• Prize Enhancements – In addition to the traditional cash awards and recognition, Canon will offer a range of prizes that include limited‑edition cameras, lenses, and extended warranty packages. The partnership also guarantees a special “Canon‑Sponsored Travel Award” to cover travel and accommodation for the winner of the “World Sports Photo of the Year” in a city of their choosing.

How to Enter the 2026 Competition

The WSPA has announced that the 2026 competition will run from January 1 to March 31, 2026. Photographers from any country are eligible to submit their best images, provided that:

• The photographs must have been taken on or after January 1, 2024.
• Images are delivered in JPEG or RAW format with a minimum resolution of 4000 × 3000 pixels.
• Each submission must be accompanied by a brief description of the context, location, and a statement of up to 200 words explaining the concept and technical approach.

Participants can register and submit their entries through the WSPA’s online portal (link available on the official WSPA website). Canon’s own website will provide an additional entry hub for members of the Canon Pro community, offering a seamless sign‑up experience integrated with Canon’s online account system.

Judging Process and Prize Structure

The competition’s judging panel is composed of an international panel of distinguished photographers, editors and technologists. The panel will evaluate entries based on:

• Technical Merit – sharpness, exposure, colour accuracy, and depth of field.
• Creative Vision – originality, composition, and narrative strength.
• Impact – the emotional response and storytelling potential of the image.

The prize structure is as follows:

In addition to the cash prizes, all finalists receive a Canon Award Certificate, a commemorative print, and a professional portfolio review by a Canon specialist.

Why This Partnership Matters

For Canon, the collaboration offers a strategic platform to showcase its cutting‑edge imaging technology to a community that is often the first to test and push the limits of camera performance. The WSPA’s focus on dynamic, fast‑moving events aligns perfectly with Canon’s flagship product lines, such as the EOS R5 and the 70‑200 mm f/2.8L IS III lens.

From the perspective of the photography community, the partnership promises higher visibility, greater financial incentives, and enhanced learning opportunities. It also signals a shift toward a more integrated approach where camera manufacturers, competitions and industry stakeholders collaborate to elevate the profession.

Looking Ahead

With entries now open for the 2026 competition cycle, photographers worldwide have the chance to test their skills, gain exposure, and potentially secure a career‑boosting win. Canon’s involvement ensures that the competition remains at the cutting edge of technology, offering participants the best tools and support available.

For more detailed information on the competition rules, the judging panel, and the full list of prizes, visit the official World Sports Photography Awards website. Canon’s own page will provide additional resources for its Pro community, including gear discounts, workshop registrations, and a dedicated FAQ section.

The 2026 World Sports Photography Awards represent more than a competition – they’re a celebration of the human spirit captured through the lens. With Canon’s partnership, the event is poised to become an even brighter milestone in the world of sports photography.