& MoreThe Art of Virtual Photography
Where Reality Ends
& Imagination Begins
Photo mode transforms every player into an artist. Pause, frame, light, compose — and capture moments that rival traditional photography.
The Photo Mode Awards celebrates the creators pushing this craft forward, from quiet character studies to cinematic landscapes.
Live From the PMAs
Watch the 2026
Winners Revealed
Featured Finalists
The Gallery
And the Categories Are...
Award Categories
People
This style of photography is all about trying to capture the personality, expressions, and emotions/connections of an individual (person or fantasy) or group of individuals by utilizing the background atmosphere, poses, and lighting.
Architecture
Architecture photography generally means photography that focuses on buildings, structures, and urban/fantasy environments, showcasing creativity in composition and design. It can include shooting building exteriors and interiors, as well as bridges, other structures, and cityscapes.
Action
Captures will contain a high intensity scene with dynamic moments, showcasing movement, energy, and vitality in various contexts, from sports to a fight scene.
Close Up
The Close Up category focuses on capturing detailed and intimate shots of a subject. This type of photography allows for a deeper exploration of texture and fine details.
Nature
Nature photography is focused on elements of the outdoors. Specific subjects may include landscapes, wildlife, flora, and other elements of the environment.
Indie
This category focuses on the unique and visually stunning worlds crafted by independent game developers.
For developers and publishers
Photo mode.Player creativity.A global stage.
Players are already capturing your game at its best. The PMAs put that work in front of a worldwide audience, from the entries to the live awards show.
- A yearly global awards show built around photo mode
- 1.05M+ impressions a year across gaming and virtual photography audiences
- High-quality, brand-safe community art from your game
- Partnerships shaped around your game and your launch
Featured: DOOM: The Dark AgesThe PMAs 2026 in numbers
- Submissions
- 2,800+
- Countries
- 80+
- Community votes
- 5,850+
Amazing activation and looking forward to seeing the next year's awards.
Marcin MomotGlobal Community & Social Media DirectorCD PROJEKT RED
“Every screenshot is a decision — about light, about framing, about the story you want to tell. That’s what makes it art.”
— The Photo Mode Awards
Proudly
Supported By
Thanks to these studios, publishers, and community groups for supporting the Photo Mode Awards.
Don't
Miss Out
Submissions for the next Photo Mode Awards open 1 June 2027. Enter your best virtual photography and join creators worldwide.