#Japan #Tokyo #Photoback Award #Asada Masashi #Photobook Contest

Announcing the Photoback Award 2026

Content Works Inc., based in Minato, Tokyo and led by President Hirokazu Oudo, is pleased to announce the launch of the 'Photoback Award 2026'. This highly anticipated annual photo contest will commence on April 22, 2026. The competition is designed to celebrate not only the aesthetic quality of photographs but also the stories and concepts they convey as books.

A Contest for Your Favorite Moments

The theme for 2026 is 'Gather Your Favorites'. Participants are encouraged to submit a variety of works including smartphone snaps and meticulously captured images taken with dedicated cameras. Whether it showcases cherished family memories or reflects unique hobbies, each submission will be a story crafted from the individual's 'favorites'. This variation enriches the collection of stories presented in book form, inviting everyone to share their unique perspectives with the world.

You can find more information about the contest on the official website.

Meet Our Esteemed Judges

This year's jury is an esteemed panel comprising prominent individuals from photography, literature, and lifestyle

• - Asada Masashi (Photographer): Asada began his photographic journey while studying at a vocational school, capturing family moments that eventually led to his acclaimed work, 'Asada Family', which earned him the 34th Kimura Ihei Photography Award. He co-authored 'The Power of Albums', documenting the efforts surrounding photo restoration after the Great East Japan Earthquake. In 2020, his works inspired the movie 'Asada Family!'.

• - Kai Minori (Writer): An accomplished author of over 50 books, Kai focuses on the themes of travel, cuisine, and everyday life. Her diverse writing captures the essence of local culture and traditions, furthering the connection between readers and lifestyle.

• - Koya Miyu (Model): Born in Tokyo in 1991, Koya has been modeling since age 14. Through her essays and brand collaborations, she shares her loves, hoping to inspire viewers' own daily experiences. Known for her passion for cats and traditional cafés, Koya is also the host of the J-WAVE original podcast, 'Miyu's Favorite Collection Club.'

New Perspectives from Additional Judges

This year, the contest will also feature special judges from brands and businesses active in lifestyle and culture. They will evaluate submissions and award lifestyle items from participating sponsors. These judges will be announced progressively on the special site.

One of the special judges includes HAGISO, an innovative facility housed in an 80-year-old wooden apartment, transformed into a hub for cultural exchange and creativity. It combines a café, gallery, accommodation, and salon, aiming to nurture people and culture unique to Tokyo.

Another is Mitsubado Camera Shop, located in Nippori, Tokyo, specializing in film cameras and offering maintenance services, ideal for newcomers interested in film photography.

Contest Details

Theme:

'Gather Your Favorites'

Submission Timeline:

• - Submission Period: April 22, 2026 – May 31, 2026
• - Nominee Announcement: June 24, 2026
• - Award Winners Announcement: July 29, 2026
• - Exhibition: Coming Soon (to be held at HAGISO)

Prizes:

• - Grand Prize (1 winner): Total vouchers worth ¥100,000 (including a ¥50,000 Amazon gift card and five ¥10,000 Photoback gift cards).
• - Judges' Awards (3 winners): Total vouchers worth ¥30,000 (including a ¥10,000 Amazon gift card and two ¥10,000 Photoback gift cards).
• - Special Judges' Awards (up to 5 winners): Mitsubado Camera Shop award (1 winner): An original camera strap, '6× STRAP -Limited-'. HAGISO award (1 winner): Breakfast tickets for two and original goods.
• - Public Vote Award (1 winner): ¥5,000 Photoback gift card.
• - Participation Reward: All entrants receive a ¥500 Photoback coupon.

Eligibility and Entry Process:

Photobooks created using Photoback's services are eligible for entry. Participants can create photobooks via the website or iOS app and submit easily through the 'Enter' button on the completion screen. Past orders can also participate if reordering data is available.

Selection Criteria:

While participants can submit multiple entries, the focus should be on presenting your best work. The judging will emphasize the stories, themes, and viewpoints regarding daily life conveyed through each book rather than just technical photography skills.

For further details, please visit the special site.

About Photoback

Established in 2004, Photoback offers a service that enriches lives through custom photo albums. Marking its 22nd anniversary this February, Photoback allows users to create stylish albums that preserve precious memories in tangible forms. The service continues to support users in maintaining vibrant memories for the future.

Visit the official site for more information and feel free to connect via the official LINE account or Instagram.