Shutter Hub Editions Photobook Award 2026

Shutter Hub is a Cambridge-based UK photography platform with a global membership and a publishing arm, Shutter Hub Editions. The Photobook Award is the publishing arm's annual prize — selected by Karen Harvey MBE, Shutter Hub's Founder and Creative Director.

The brief is open in subject but specific in intent: bold storytelling and compelling visual narratives, particularly welcoming photographers creating their first book. Photographers without prior book publications are explicitly encouraged.

Selection structure has two tiers. A shortlist of six photographers receives a dedicated feature on Shutter Hub's platforms. From the shortlist, selected photographers are invited to contribute a Close Up feature, which reaches an audience of over 500,000 people through the platform's distribution.

The winning book is published by Shutter Hub Editions. The financial structure is profit-share: 40% commission on profits is paid to the photographer.

Each application includes a written proposal and a PDF with 20+ images. Submission is through the Shutter Hub website. Fee is £25. The 2026 deadline was April 30; results expected around July 2026.