In the world of photography, the annual Oskar Barnack Award (LOBA) by Leica is a prestigious event, but it also raises an intriguing question: How do we compare and contrast different genres of photography? The 2026 LOBA shortlist presents a fascinating dilemma, as it pits two seemingly disparate subjects against each other: Saher Alghorra's 'Witnessing Gaza' and Todd Antony's 'Buzkashi'.
Alghorra's work is a powerful documentation of war, capturing the harsh realities of scarcity, starvation, violence, and loss in Gaza. It is raw, urgent, and emotionally charged. On the other hand, Antony's photographs are a study of the Central Asian sport of buzkashi, where horsemen compete to wrestle over a headless goat carcass. While both series are technically excellent, they represent vastly different experiences and narratives.
This tension is not unique to LOBA. Many photography contests with broad remits struggle to compare and contrast different genres. The newly launched Women in Photography Grant, for instance, avoids this issue by judging project proposals rather than finished bodies of work. However, the challenge remains: How do we judge and compare photographs that represent such diverse human experiences?
The tension between these two series on the LOBA shortlist is particularly interesting. It raises a deeper question: What is the purpose of photography? Is it to capture the beauty of everyday life, or to shed light on the harsh realities of the world? In my opinion, both Alghorra and Antony's work are equally valid and important. They offer unique perspectives and insights into different aspects of the human condition.
What makes this dilemma even more fascinating is the fact that it reflects a broader trend in photography. As the medium continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly diverse and inclusive. However, this diversity also presents a challenge: How do we compare and contrast different genres and styles? In my view, the answer lies in embracing the diversity and recognizing the value of each and every photograph.
Ultimately, the real result of this shortlist may simply be a useful, uncomfortable reminder. Photography contests are not just about judging individual photographs; they are about judging what we, collectively, think photography is for. And in my opinion, that means embracing the diversity and recognizing the value of each and every photograph, regardless of genre or subject matter.
