A groundbreaking new photography competition is set to debut at the 15th edition of MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas in March 2026, marking the launch of the inaugural Superstudio Photo Award. The collaboration between Fiere di Parma S.p.A., MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas, and Superstudio Events Srl, with sponsorship from FUJIFILM, introduces an international call for entries centered on the theme "Metamorphosis, from Garment to Skin: DIFFERENTLY ME."
The competition exclusively targets emerging talent, welcoming students aged 18 to 28 from photography, communication, design, and fashion schools across Europe. This initiative aligns with both MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas and Superstudio's commitment to showcasing promising young artists and facilitating their transition into the professional world. The award represents a unique opportunity for young photographers to gain exposure on a prestigious international platform at Milan's most renowned fine-art photography fair.
In a touching tribute, this inaugural edition of the Superstudio Photo Award is dedicated to Oliviero Toscani, the legendary photographer who recently passed away. The award was created to honor his genius, expressive freedom, and revolutionary vision of photography, particularly in fashion but extending far beyond. Toscani was renowned for his ability to read and anticipate the transformations of contemporary society like few others in his field.
Superstudio's tribute extends beyond professional admiration to personal connections, honoring the bond Toscani shared with founders Flavio Lucchini and Gisella Borioli, who established the City of Fashion Image in 1983. The award aims to serve as a bridge between past and future, inspiring young creatives to reach for new and higher goals while carrying forward Toscani's free, fearless, and ever-contemporary vision. Each year, the award will honor a different master of photography, continuing this legacy of recognition.
The competition focuses on contemporary concepts of identity, aesthetic freedom, and self-representation within fashion, beauty, and style photography. Young photographers are invited to explore how modern imagery can express personal values, desires, and visions in an era where traditional conventions have dissolved. The award poses profound questions about how young people tell their stories today and which visual codes emerge from a freedom of expression that transcends established rules.
Winners will receive substantial recognition and professional opportunities. Up to 10 finalists will participate free of charge in an exhibition held in a dedicated area during MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas, running from March 19-22, 2026, with an exclusive preview by invitation on March 18 at SUPERSTUDIOPIÙ on Via Tortona 27 in Milan. From these finalists, one photographer will receive the ultimate prize, selected jointly by fair visitors and a technical jury.
The grand prize winner will have the opportunity to produce a professional photo shoot completely free of charge at the renowned SUPERSTUDIO 13 studios on Via Forcella 13 in Milan, in collaboration with Superstudio Set & Ephoto. This comprehensive package includes a Pre-Production Meeting (PPM), a preliminary session where the winner presents their project and production requirements, mirroring the process of a professional photoshoot. FUJIFILM will provide professional photographic equipment on loan for the shoot, with experienced professionals supporting the production.
The competition maintains strict evaluation standards, with decisions by the finalist selection panel and final jury being final and potentially rendered without specific explanation. Participants must waive any right to contest the criteria or choices made by MIA Photo Fair BNP Paribas, SUPERSTUDIO, or the juries. Aspiring photographers have until December 15th to submit their applications for this prestigious opportunity to showcase their work on one of Europe's most important photography platforms.
