Young photographer Panitbhand Paribatra Na Ayudhya simply received the highest honor within the Project//21 class on the Hasselblad Masters 2026 with the underwater collection, Dwellers of the Night.
The rising expertise from Thailand, who’s simply 14 years previous, stood out towards a area of remarkable entries in one of many world’s most prestigious skilled photographic competitions, which additionally affords rising photographers the chance to showcase their expertise.
In the waters of Anilao, The Philippines, Panitbhand skillfully used a gradual shutter pace and coloured lighting to disclose a world that is still hidden for many – however this wasn’t his first victory.
Previously, Panitbhand earned the title Young Shark Photographer of the Year 2025 and was commended within the Siena International Photo Awards 2026.
Winner Project//21: Dwellers of the Night
Panitbhand’s work is rooted in a quiet dedication to the ocean, documenting its life, its fragility and the ecosystems that sustain it, in the hope that what is seen through his lens will not be forgotten.
In the waters of Anilao, The Philippines, pelagic and larval marine life migrate from the depths each night to feed under the cover of darkness.
By using slow shutter speeds to capture the elegant motion of his subjects and carefully chosen coloured lighting, Panitbhand reveals their form and beauty.
Some of these creatures spend their entire lives in the open ocean, making the pelagic ecosystem as fragile as it is extraordinary.
“I’m drawn to the quiet whimsy of these sea creatures. Set against black, the creatures feel almost otherworldly- strange, delicate, and entirely captivating.
“There’s a simplicity to the presentation that allows their inherent oddness to shine, reminding us how unfamiliar and compelling the natural world can be when seen without distraction,” says Alex Pollack, Director of Photography at National Geographic.
Take a have a look at the seven winners of Hasselblad Masters 2026 right here. For extra info on the competitors, go to the Hasselblad website.
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