Set up to empower female photographic talent and promote their work to an international audience, the award aims to create a powerful platform and ensure the photographic industry is a space where both genders can excel.

The award stems from the Alpha Universe’s Alpha Female initiative by Sony US, which focuses on creating opportunities for professional photographers, videographers, and filmmakers to help foster a richer, more diverse creative community. Working with the World Photography Organisation, Sony US have expanded their programme to a global scale by recognising female photographers entering the Sony World Photography Awards Open competition.