The European Architectural Photography Prize

The European Architectural Photography Prize has existed since 1995. The Stuttgart-based foundation architekturbildorganizes the prize together with the German Architecture Museum. From the start, the prize focused on the built environment rather than commercial architecture work. Because of this, it encourages photographers to look closely at how cities grow and change.

In the Spotlight | Focus of Attention

In 2013, the prize reached its tenth edition. That year, the theme was “In the Spotlight | Focus of Attention.” In total, 175 photographers from around the world took part. Frank Bayh & Steff Rosenberger-Ochs received the first prize for their series “The Development of New Neighborhoods in the Heart of the City.” In addition, works by Stanislaw Chomicki and Nadia Pugliese received recognition. The top 28 photo series were then shown together in a group exhibition.

Der zweite Blick | Second Viewing

To mark the anniversary, the exhibition “Der zweite Blick | Second Viewing” brought together selected award-winning works from 1995 to 2011. My series Urban Nature, which received the prize in 2011, was part of this exhibition. Both shows took place at the Wissenschaftspark Gelsenkirchen from April 10 to June 21. Together, they offered a broad view of how architectural photography has developed over time.

How the Prize Works

The European Architectural Photography Prize takes place every two years. Each edition follows a new theme. This structure helps keep the competition open and relevant. Each entry consists of four photographs shown as a series. A jury awards one first prize, two second prizes, and several commendations. Afterward, the top 28 series appear in a catalogue and travel as part of exhibitions in Germany and abroad.

The Exhibition Space

The Wissenschaftspark Gelsenkirchen was designed by Kiessler + Partner from Munich. In 1995, the project received the German Architecture Prize. The site combines industrial architecture with open green space and a lake. Because of this, it reflects many of the ideas shown in the photographs. Architecture, public space, and daily use meet in one location.

Looking Back

For me, taking part in the European Architectural Photography Prize connects my work to a wider discussion about cities and space. At the same time, the exhibitions invite visitors to slow down and look again. Through this process, architectural photography becomes less about images alone and more about attention, context, and change.