From Wainuiomata To Marton: Young Photographer Awards Celebrate A Growing Creative Movement

What began as photography workshops for local children in Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt, has grown into a creative programme reaching young people across the lower North Island. Now, The Art of Seeing Academy is preparing for its second annual Young Photographer Awards on 2 December 2026, celebrating the achievements of the region's youngest photographers.

Since its beginnings in 2023, the registered charity has delivered more than 300 photography workshops, expanding across Wellington, Hutt Valley, Kāpiti, Horowhenua, Wairarapa and as far north as Marton. Hundreds of children aged 7–18 have discovered photography through outdoor workshops, school programmes and community activities, many picking up a camera for the first time.

"When we started in Wainuiomata, we couldn't have imagined how far this would grow," says Academy founder Ana Lyubich. "What's most exciting is seeing children return, develop their own photographic style and become more confident in their creative decisions. Some who started with no experience are now producing photographs that genuinely surprise us."

The Academy's work continues well beyond the workshops. Its team has reviewed more than 15,000 photographs, carefully selecting images for an online gallery that now features over 375 individual collections showcasing young photographers' work.

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For many children, seeing their photographs displayed publicly is a significant milestone, giving them a sense of achievement and encouraging them to continue exploring their creativity.

Following a successful inaugural event in 2025, which attracted around 200 attendees, the Young Photographer Awards return this December for an even bigger celebration.

Unlike traditional photography competitions, the Awards recognise creativity, effort, personal growth and individual achievements, rather than ranking photographs against one another. Young photographers will receive trophies and certificates, with their work showcased on the big screen in front of families, teachers, tutors and the wider community.

"Give ten children a camera in the same location and you'll get ten completely different interpretations," says Lyubich. "That's what makes photography so exciting. We want every child to feel that their way of seeing the world matters."

The evening will also feature five guest speakers: photographers and educators Fairlie Atkinson, Tara Swan, Stephen Garner, Dave Allen and Emmeline Plachecki, sharing their experiences and inspiration with the next generation of photographers.

The event is free and open to everyone, thanks to the support of Hutt City Council and the Academy's sponsors.

Event details

Young Photographer Awards 2026
Wednesday 2 December 2026, 6.00–7.30 pm
Little Theatre, Lower Hutt
Free tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/young-photographer-awards-2026

About The Art of Seeing Academy

The Art of Seeing Academy is a registered New Zealand charity (CC62617) providing accessible photography education for children aged 7–18, with cameras available for those who need them.

Website: https://photographyforkids.org

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