【Judging Results】
The judging for the 85th International Photographic Salon (sponsored by The Asahi Shimbun and The All-Japan Association of Photographic Societies、prizesponsored by Canon Marketing Japan Inc.) has been completed, and we have selected 86 prize-winning entries, consisting of 48 from the OVERSEAS CATEGORY, 38 from the JAPAN CATEGORY. The International Photographic Salon was inaugurated in 1927 with the participation of photographers from 15 countries outside of Japan.
International submissions were accepted through the online channel only, resulting in a total of 3,939 entries from 64 countries/regions. Iran's 1,005 was the highest number. There were 3,307 domestic entries, bringing the total number of entries to 7,246.
【Judges】
Anju (Photographer)
Shintaro Shiratori (Photographer, APA President)
Tokihiro Sato (Photographer, Professor of Tokyo University of Arts)
Yasuharu Ezure (Officials from AJAPS)
Takeo Kato (Asahi Shimbun Tokyo Head Office, Photo & Multimedia Manager)
Gen Hashimoto (Asahi Shimbun Osaka Head Office, Photo & Multimedia Manager)
Hiroki Hisamatsu (Chief Manager from AJAPS)
【General Review-OVERSEAS and JAPAN CATEGORIES】
This year, the contrast between Japanese and overseas photography trends became more evident. In JAPAN CATEGORY, edited and manipulated images seemed to increase, while OVERSEAS CATEGORY, there was a noticeable shift back to natural aesthetics rather than elaborate composites. It was interesting to see these opposing directions.
Many of the top-selected works embraced a straightforward approach. Rather than focusing on polished compositions, they conveyed a youthful energy and honesty, reflecting a fresh and powerful post-pandemic sensibility. Each piece sparked curiosity, making me eager to ask the artists what inspired them to capture these moments.
A generational shift was also apparent, especially in the JAPAN CATEGORY. While younger photographers showcased strong technical skills, seasoned artists explored a more youthful sensibility. It felt as if the gap between generations was gradually closing.
審査委員特別賞=SPECIAL PRIZE
入選=HONORABLE MENTION
▶Please refer to this URL for the traveling exhibition schedule.
The results of The 85th International Photographic Salon are as follows.
「悟り」 トム・ポーティシット(タイ)
悟りは高尚なものだが、瞑想の世界観を独特な作品で表現した。ハンモックではなく、心地よい瞑想とはどんなものかを作者は考え、こうした構成にしたのだろう。色みが目に飛び込み、これはどんな状況だろうと思わせるインパクトがあるにもかかわらず、それとは対照的に見た人が穏やかな気持ちになりそうな作品でもある。
Enlightenment is a lofty concept, yet the artist has found a unique way to express the world of meditation through this piece. Rather than depicting comfort as something as tangible as a hammock, the artist seems to have contemplated what true, soothing meditation feels like—and structured the composition accordingly. The colors immediately catch the eye, creating a striking impact that makes the viewer wonder about the scene unfolding before them. And yet, in contrast to its visual intensity, the work also exudes a sense of tranquility, inviting the audience into a state of calm reflection.
「アートの間で」 ユーリー・フォカ(モルドバ)
非常にユーモラスな作品だ。偶然の産物か、絶好のシャッターチャンスを逃さず、被写体の表情も自然で、絵画の中の人物になりきったような作品になった。被写体の身長が何センチか違えば成立しなかった写真で、まるで描かれた人物が絵画から抜け出してきたような、ある種のストーリーも想像させる。
This is a highly humorous piece. Whether by chance or perfect timing, the subject’s natural expression makes them seem as if they have stepped straight out of a painting. Had their height been just a few centimeters different, the illusion might not have worked. The image playfully suggests a story—one where a painted figure has come to life.
「友だち」 ワヒド・ガセミ・ザルヌーシェ(イラン)
人物の表情、景色やボケ具合が美しく、シンプルで非常にきれいな写真らしい写真だ。以前にどこかで見たような、記憶をよみがえらせる作品で、あえてカラーではなくセピア調に仕上げたことで、どこかノスタルジックさを感じさせ、様々なことを想像させる作品となった。
The subject’s expression, the scenery, and the soft blur create a beautifully simple and classic photograph. It evokes a sense of déjà vu, as if recalling a distant memory. The choice of sepia over color enhances its nostalgic feel, inviting the viewer to imagine their own stories.