Sony World Photography Awards 2026 – Shortlist

OFFICIAL SELECTION: SOMERSET HOUSE, LONDON

Fine art wildlife photography „CHAOS“ by Axel Schmidtke – Close-up of an Antarctic seal on pack ice while glacier behind collapse, Sony World Photography Awards 2026 shortlisted.
 
 

A moment captured in Svalbard. - Not staged. Not repeatable.

 
 

Included in the definitive Sony World Photography Awards 2026 Book.

The initial collector release is officially closed — now held in private collections across Europe.

A new edition is now available.

 

Gallery Edition · 45 × 30 cm · Edition of 20

Collect 'CHAOS' Limited EDITIONS

 
 

What Followed This Moment

This image marked the beginning of a deeper exploration. As the environment shifted, the stillness gave way to something more physical — less about observation, more about force.

 
 

'Splash' is the definitive work of the series.

 
 
 
 

‘SPLASH’ — Masterpiece Edition

The most intense expression of the series. Where tension no longer holds — and movement takes over.

A work that translates the raw force of the Arctic into a physical presence.

 
 
 

The definitive centerpiece of the series. Available in exclusive large-format dimensions for maximum impact.

Designed as a statement piece for collectors.

Strictly Limited Masterpiece Edition.

Produced at WhiteWall's master lab using museum-grade archival materials.

Designed to exist beyond the image — as a physical object with depth, clarity and permanence.

Price increases when the exhibition at Somerset House closes on 4 May.

 
 
 

Each piece is accompanied by a hand-signed certificate of authenticity and secured with the Hahnemühle Hologram System.

 
 

Experience the raw power of the Arctic in your own space.

This is about force - About stillness within motion - About owning a moment that cannot be repeated.


 
 
 

Authenticity & Craft

Each Fine Art Print is individually signed, numbered and secured.

 
 
 

A quieter alternative from the same series

 
 
 
 
 

The Trilogy: ‘Calm within Chaos’

Anchored by the international success of the SWPA-shortlisted ‘Chaos’, this trilogy explores the extremes of the North. From the raw, physical force of ‘Splash’ to the silent breath of ‘Icefall’, the series captures the Arctic in its most defining moments.

Together, these works document the fragile equilibrium of a world in transition.

Designed for collectors seeking stillness over intensity.

Price increases when the exhibition at Somerset House closes on 4 May.

View ‘ICEFALL’ Limited Edition

 

Bring the force of the Arctic into your home.

Secure your Masterpiece Edition of ‘Splash’ today.

 
 

Museum-grade production. Worldwide delivery.

Only a limited number of editions available.