In Your Hands: Dorota Qaid Studies the Quiet Geometry of Architecture
At the World Grand Prix Photography Awards 2026 Autumn Season, Dorota Qaid received the Platinum Award & Photo of the Season in Architectural & Urban Photography for In Your Hands. The winning work offers a distinct perspective on its subject, bringing the photographer’s individual approach to the foreground.
Inside a mosque designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
Interview
What is the narrative or story behind this award-winning piece, and what inspired you to capture this particular moment?
My photo "In Your Hands" represents the genius of Zaha Hadid Architects designs. It is an interior of a mosque located at King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The entire complex was closed off to public, and visitors were not permitted, until earlier this year, when the Museum of Black Gold was opened within the area, allowing to see the parts of the rest of the building. I am a devoted fan of Zaha Hadid's work, and I waited for a long time for this wonderful opportunity to experience, and admire her another project.
Were there any unexpected creative or technical hurdles during the making of this work, and how did you overcome them?
Because the mosque itself is not a stand alone building, and it is located within the entire complex, there are no windows that would allow a natural light to come in. The inside has artificial light, and even though it gives beautiful, soft tones, it is hard to photograph. I chose a black and white option to help me blend the imperfections.
How do you approach the balance between technical skill and emotional/artistic expression in your photography?
So I have to confess that I am not a technical photographer. I am not a technical person in any other field either. I don't use any programs, except of what my phone or laptop allows as editing. That is why so often I choose the black and white option, as it helps me to concentrate on my own artistic expression. I hope that anyone who looks at my photo, will pay attention to the composition, framing, light. Those aspects are the most important to me in architectural photography.
What key emotion or thematic message do you hope viewers walk away with when experiencing this piece?
I hope that viewers will recognize right away that photo is of Zaha Hadid's work. Her style is so unique, so "hadidesque" (that's my own description). Also the interior itself, with the gentle flow of the lines, brings tranquility and calm. Such a peaceful feeling, perfect for the mosque.
In your view, what role does photography play in today’s world?
To me there are 2 major roles. First is to show. Simple. To show the world to other people, who are unable to see it themselves. And second, to show. More complicated. To show individual emotions, feelings, experiences to other people, who can then compare with their own.
Editor’s Note
In Your Hands directs attention to the expressive potential of architectural interiors. Within the mosque's flowing lines, the relationship between framing, tonal contrast and light becomes the principal subject.
Qaid's preference for black and white is not merely a technical workaround; in this context, it helps foreground the calm and continuity she associates with the architecture.
Follow Dorota Qaid
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorotaqaid/
About the World Grand Prix Photography Awards
The World Grand Prix Photography Awards (WGPPA) is an international photography competition recognising creative achievement across photographic disciplines. Its winning works and selected editorial interviews, published through WODACC, offer photographers opportunities to present both their images and the ideas behind them to a wider audience. For emerging and established photographers considering international awards, these published winner stories provide concrete examples of how creative work can be showcased beyond the award announcement.
Explore the World Grand Prix Photography Awards: https://www.wgppa.com/
