Afra Gethoeffer Gruetz wins two awards

German photographer Afra Gethoeffer Gruetz took two wins at the Event Photography Awards 2026 for best black and white image and music events category.

“The photo was taken with a Nikon Z 6II and the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8”

Event Photography Awards 2026

The Event Photography Awards is a not-for-profit competition highlighting high quality photography in the international events industry.

Over 2,300 images entered

Over 2,300 images captured at events worldwide were entered in 2026's competition by photographers in more than 20 countries.

Black Ink photo wins category

Gethoeffer Gruetz's 'Black Ink' shot was crowned best photo in the inaugural Black & White Award category sponsored by Digital Camera magazine.

Deep Growl photo places joint first

'Deep Growl', a shot of Yukina from the band Hanabie headbanging, placed joint first in the Music Events - Performers category.

Gethoeffer Gruetz's background

Based in Munich, Gethoeffer Gruetz has a PhD in art history and started photography in 2015 shooting live gigs for metal1.info.

Photography style

She specializes in low-light photography for metal and punk shows, capturing moments with fast lights and movement.

Technical details

The photo was taken with a Nikon Z 6II and Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 at 1/400sec, f/2.8, ISO 1800 for hardcore shows.

Photography philosophy

Gethoeffer Gruetz says she doesn't plan shots but reacts to what she gets during live performances.

“In concert photography, at least at shows with fast lights and lots of movement by the musicians, I don't plan my shots - I react to what I get.”