#CulturePH - Lights, Lens, Action: The Canon PhotoMarathon Is Back and Bigger Than Ever

Creative communities have a way of lighting up a room—people showing up not just with their talents, but with the kind of energy that reminds you why making things matters. That was the mood when Canon Philippines kicked off the year with its Thanksgiving celebration, bringing together media friends, creators, and longtime supporters. Instead of feeling formal, the gathering unfolded like a reunion of people who simply love to create.

But the real spark? The official launch of Canon PhotoMarathon 2026.

If you’ve been around the photography scene for a while, you probably know the legend of this competition. It started in Singapore back in 2003 and eventually made its way across Asia, building a kind of cult following. The Philippine leg is now on its 19th year—basically old enough to vote—yet the excitement around it hasn’t dulled one bit.

Maybe it’s because the PhotoMarathon isn’t your typical contest. You don’t just submit your “best of the best” taken months ago. You’re given a theme on the spot, and the clock starts ticking. It’s the creative equivalent of a fun, slightly nerve‑wracking sprint—one that pushes you to think fast, shoot faster, and trust your instincts. And this year, the spotlight isn’t just on photos; the video category is stepping into the frame too, letting storytellers play with motion, sound, rhythm—basically, all the things that make video its own kind of magic.

The 2026 showdown is happening on April 18 at the BGC Amphitheater, and the doors are open to pretty much everyone—professionals, students, camera club kids, hybrid creators, or that friend who insists on carrying a camera to brunch “just in case.” You don’t even need to be a Canon user unless you’re shooting for the main category. And yes, the prizes are very real: from the EOS R6 Mark III to the R8, to the creator‑friendly R50 V and PowerShot V1.

Joining is almost too easy—just hop on the Canon PH Delightful App, tap on the event banner, and you’re in.

And if you’re the “I need to warm up first” type, Canon’s got you covered. They’re popping up at PhotoWorld Asia 2026 from January 29 to February 1 with exclusive deals (think freebies worth up to ₱20,000). After that, they’re rolling out photowalks, school tours, and regional creator gatherings from February to March—zero entrance fees, all vibes welcome.

What I love about all this is how it feels less like a competition and more like an invitation—to go outside, to create something, to meet people who get excited about ISO and natural light and the joy of capturing a moment just right. Even if you’re not angling for a prize, being part of a community like that? It’s its own kind of reward.

But if you are hoping to win… well, may the best shot win. 📸✨

If you want updates, Canon PH’s Facebook page is where all the new info pops up. And if this is your sign to finally join a PhotoMarathon? I’d say go for it. You never know what story you might capture—or how it might change the way you see the world. 

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