The Binghatti 200/20 Architectural Photography Competition — an international contest boasting a prize pool of over $544,000 USD — brought together creatives from across the world in a celebration of visual storytelling through architecture. Held in collaboration with Dubai Design District (d3) and supported by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the competition culminated in a spectacular awards ceremony at d3, honoring 20 exceptional photographers.
Among the esteemed judging panel was Artem Shestakov, globally renowned fine art photographer, film producer, and environmental advocate, who shared his deep reflections on the role of photography in architecture today.
“This competition wasn’t just about technical precision — it was about telling a story through structure. We looked for meaning, for emotion, for perspective. And that’s what I’ve always believed photography should do. Architectural photography is as much about feeling as it is about form.”
Shestakov was joined on the jury by other leading voices in art, design, and culture:
- Muhammad BinGhatti, Chairman of Binghatti
- Ali Eissa, Renowned Emirati Photographer
- Khadijah Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of d3
- Jassim Al Awadhi, Emirati Forensic Expert & Photographer
For Shestakov, judging this competition was more than an assignment — it was a collaboration with bold architectural expression.
“Binghatti’s buildings aren’t just visually powerful — they’re conceptually rich. Under Muhammad BinGhatti’s leadership, their projects merge geometry with identity, creating forms that feel alive. To photograph them is to engage in visual dialogue.”
Reflecting on the winning entries, Shestakov shared one of his core beliefs:
“The best shots happen when luck meets preparation. You can’t always control the weather or the light. But if your eyes and heart are open, you’ll know when the moment comes. And sometimes… that moment is wrapped in fog.”
