Winners 2024

Luciano Rossetti / IT
Born in 1959, he began to photograph in the late 70’s. In 2004, with other photographers, he co-founded Phocus Agency, which specializes in performance photography. In 2019, he has been among the founding members of AFIJ, the Association of Italian Jazz Photographers, where he serves as secretary and board member. Dozens projects for the main recording labels as well as many assignments for Jazz and Theatre Festivals. He had personal and collective exhibitions both in Italy as abroad since the middle of 90’s . Among the others: Triennale and Palazzo Reale in Milano, Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria in Perugia, Villa Celimontana in Rome, Gallery of the Marktgemeinde in St.Johann in Tirol, Orensanz Foundation, Jazz Record Center and Clemente Soto Velez in New York. His photography has recently earned international acclaim for its excellence. In 2016 and 2017 Nomination for the Best Photo of the Year (JJA AWARD). In 2021, Nomination for the Best Photo (JAZZ WORLD PHOTO). In 2021 “BEST PHOTO OF THE YEAR” for JJA Award – Jazz Journalists Association. As well as a Nomination for Lifetime Achievement in 2021 and 2023 from the American Jazz Journalists and Critics Association (JJA). www.lucianorossetti.it Photographs are “foot-notes”; they are a gaze at music or, better yet, a gaze inside music. It is a work-in-progress, a research “by images” on those aspects of music that audience usually do not see. Notes are a “presence-absence”, they are at the margin yet deeply present; music is present in the breaks during rehearsals, it is in the stage floorboards where an exhausted musician is stretched out it is in the kiss of two young lovers on a beach to the rhythm of a double bass breaks into the waves. During its wandering in Italy and abroad, from a festival to a recording studio, from a beach while a club, the gaze tries to go beyond the stage, beyond the instrument, beyond the outward appearance usually granted by musicians. There is a continuous attempt at investigating the human soul while trying to avoid stereotypes, clichés, the already seen. Therefore images that involve musicians, audiences, those who are just passing through and those who are involved much against their will; all of that artistic universe that revolves around music, that experiences the musical instant of improvisation and then clears away.

Siphiwe Mhlambi / RSA
Siphiwe Mhlambi’s journey as a photographer is a testament to his unwavering dedication to storytelling through imagery. Born and raised in the vibrant cultural tapestry of South Africa, his early experiences shaped his unique perspective on life, which he skilfully translates into his photographs. Mhlambi’s fascination with photography began at a young age, inspired by the rich diversity of his surroundings. As he honed his craft, he embarked on a mission to capture the essence of South Africa’s complex history and cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the serene landscapes of the Eastern Cape, Mhlambi’s lens became a window into the soul of the nation. One of Mhlambi’s defining characteristics as a photographer is his ability to form genuine connections with his subjects. Whether photographing ordinary citizens or world leaders, Mhlambi approaches each encounter with empathy and respect, allowing him to capture moments of raw emotion and authenticity. Mhlambi has firmly established himself as the premier jazz photographer, renowned for his ability to capture the essence and energy of live performances in a way that transcends mere documentation. With a discerning eye and a deep appreciation for the art form, he brings the music from the stages onto the canvas, preserving it for posterity in vivid detail. His photographs not only freeze moments in time but also evoke the emotions and atmosphere of each performance, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the rhythm and soul of jazz. Through his lens, he has created a visual legacy that celebrates the beauty and power of music, ensuring that the magic of jazz will endure for generations to come. Over the years, Mhlambi’s work has garnered international acclaim, earning him numerous awards and accolades. His photographs have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world, shining a spotlight on the beauty and complexity of South African society. Beyond his achievements as a photographer, Mhlambi is also a passionate advocate for social change. He uses his platform to raise awareness about important issues facing his community, from economic inequality to racial injustice. Through his photography, Mhlambi strives to challenge stereotypes and inspire dialogue, fostering greater understanding and empathy among people from all walks of life. One of Mhlambi’s most significant contributions to photography came during the historic dawn of democracy in South Africa in 1994. As the nation celebrated the end of apartheid and the election of Nelson Mandela as its first democratic president, Mhlambi was there to chronicle this momentous occasion. His photographs from this period serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured and the triumphs achieved on the journey towards freedom and equality. Through his lens, Mhlambi captures not only the grand moments of history but also the intimate nuances of everyday life. Whether photographing the jubilant faces of revelers on the streets of Soweto or the quiet moments of contemplation in the rural countryside, Mhlambi’s images are imbued with a profound sense of humanity and empathy. As he continues to push the boundaries of his art, Mhlambi remains committed to using photography as a tool for social change and cultural expression. His work serves as a powerful testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling and the transformative impact it can have on society. His photographs serve as powerful reminders of our shared humanity and the enduring power of visual storytelling.

Jacek Piotrowski / PL
Photographer. Awarded by jury of Jazz World Photo 2018 and MK Jazz Photo contests in 2019, 2020 & 2022. “Jazzpress” magazine staff photographer. I focus on music, people and culture. Several blues, jazz, funk, soul, rock as well as classical musicians and clubs use my photos. Also, I am a contributing author of photographs displayed at the exhibition about volunteering presented at the National Museum in Warsaw. I like people, culture, and participating in others’ lives.I am always trying to distinguish extraordinary from ordinary while documenting emotions, especially the positive emotions to capture the energy that surrounds them. Since university I’ve been photographing musical events. Student unions full of jazz and rock music were my first lesson of capturing stage emotions in visual form. Being a part of student art agency “Alma Art” has deepened my engagement with music as an active participant in musical societyperformance, however, using a different, optical instrument. Family life, fatherhood and career in IT has limited my possibility to commit to photography but luckily, I have managed to resume my old passion in the last few years. By combining a career with music photography I have found so needed life balance and personal fulfillment. I am proud to call myself Photographer.