“Yesterday and today in Central Asia”: In this 2026 edition, the Novastan team explored Central Asia through portraits, street scenes, playful moments, and fleeting coincidences ; each revealing a glimpse of time.

Jury Prize

The jury was impressed by the quality of all submissions, making the final decision especially challenging. After careful deliberation, the jury awarded Jan Hildner the Jury Prize. Bravo to him !

Hildner’s work offers a telescopic view of Samarkand, presenting a patchwork collage of passages, passers-by, Bibi Khanum Mosque, and Siab Bazaar. His photograph brilliantly captures the living spirit of the historic city.

Audience Award

The Audience Award went to Niels Hildebrandt, who also celebrated Uzbek life by portraying Bukhara. His images lead viewers through quiet streets in the historic center, revealing a peaceful town where childhood unfolds quietly. 

Uzbekistan was therefore in the spotlight for this 2026 competition! We’ll see where the next years take us… 

Thank you to all the participants who made this 2026 edition of the Novastan photo competition such a great success.

Find all of our photos of the day. You can buy some of these and receive them at home: here is the list! If you can't find your picture in the list, mail us to photo@novastan.org.