The image that defined “Heroes” in 1977 remains central to a career now receiving lasting recognition.

Legendary photographer Masayoshi Sukita (read our interview with Masayoshi Sukita) has been named the recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Abbey Road Music Photography Awards. Presented in partnership with DHL, the annual event will take place in London on September 24, 2026. This year’s judging panel is led by acclaimed photographer Rankin and features an influential lineup of creative talent, including Nile Rodgers, Raye, and Hikaru Utada.

Featured image: ©Sukita 1977/1997 Rischi Folio. Inc. Courtesy of David Bowie Archive ™

Sukita is best known for his iconic 44-year creative collaboration with David Bowie, including his unforgettable photograph for the cover of Bowie’s 1977 album “Heroes.” His remarkable body of work is being recognized for helping transform music photography into a powerful form of contemporary art.

Beyond his extensive work with Bowie, Sukita has photographed some of the most influential figures in music history, capturing defining moments in the careers of artists including Jimi Hendrix, Iggy Pop, Marc Bolan of T. Rex, Joe Strummer of The Clash, and Japan’s pioneering electronic group Yellow Magic Orchestra.

With a raw, intimate, and cinematic visual style, Sukita did more than document musicians. His photographs helped shape their public identities while capturing the energy and evolution of the cultural scenes that defined London, New York, and Tokyo throughout the 1970s and beyond.

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