Chappell Roan and Doja Cat featured in Abbey Road photography award nominations
Music photography has played a significant role in capturing the most remarkable moments in the music world throughout 2025. From dazzling lights to breathtaking stage dives, these moments have been immortalized thanks to the art of photography. The prestigious Abbey Road Studios has sorted through over 20,000 entries from all corners of the globe to select images for the Music Photography Awards.
Among the nominees are snapshots of popular stars such as Chappell Roan and Doja Cat, competing for various awards. Music enthusiasts have the opportunity to participate by voting for the Music Moment of the Year until 23 September. The winners will be revealed during a grand awards ceremony at London’s Abbey Road Studios on 2 October. Mark Robertson, the director of marketing and creative at Abbey Road, emphasized the importance of music photography in shaping culture, highlighting its status as a genuine art form worthy of celebration.
One striking photograph capturing the essence of music is an image by photographer Josh Druding, featuring Chappell Roan donning a pink leotard adorned with stars and a superhero mask. This snapshot was taken during her performance at the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago, showcasing a visually captivating moment. The Music Photography Awards have introduced two new categories this year, including Portrait and Festivals.
In the Festivals category, Thomas Ranner’s photo of a man soaring above the crowd at the Nova Rock festival in Austria stands out for its dynamic and energetic composition. Additionally, Greg Noire’s image of rapper and singer Doja Cat, accompanied by dancers in eye-catching furry costumes, has been nominated in the Live Music category, capturing a vibrant performance on stage. Another striking image nominated for Music Moment of the Year captures Burna Boy delivering a captivating performance to a packed London Stadium. The intensity and passion in his performance are palpable through the lens of the camera.
Jez Pennington’s photograph of Rou Reynolds from British rock band Enter Shikari at the Download Festival showcases the raw energy and spirit of live music performances. Despite the muddy conditions, Reynolds exudes a charismatic presence on stage. Music producer and songwriter Benny Blanco is captured in a candid moment, mid-mouthful while enjoying his meal. The image conveys a sense of intimacy and authenticity, offering a glimpse into Blanco’s daily life.
Lastly, a photograph showcasing the hand of guitarist and record producer Nile Rodgers, co-founder of disco band Chic, emphasizes the importance of musical instruments in the life of a musician. The detailed image highlights the significance of a guitarist’s tools, capturing the essence of music-making in a single frame. Throughout 2025, music photography has continued to thrive, capturing the essence and vitality of the music world in all its glory.