NEW YORK, NY.- The American Photography Archives Group (APAG) announced the recipients of its 25th Anniversary Awards, presented during the APAG Conference this past weekend at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. These honors recognized outstanding achievements in photography and archival preservation, celebrating individuals and organizations whose commitment and contributions continue to shape the visual and cultural legacy of the photographic arts.


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The APAG Beacon Award honors photographers or archivists who have made a significant impact on the field of photography.

APAG BEACON AWARD Pete Souza

This year’s APAG Beacon Award was presented to Pete Souza, former Chief Official White House Photographer. Known for his unparalleled access and visual storytelling during the Obama and Reagan administrations, Souza’s photography has redefined how power, leadership, and history are seen and understood. Through his books, exhibitions, and public advocacy, he continues to elevate the importance of photographic archives and the photographer’s voice in shaping public memory.

APAG LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN PHOTOGRAPHY Bob Gruen and George Tice (In memoriam)

APAG recognized two icons of American photography with its Lifetime Achievement Award in Photography:

• Bob Gruen, celebrated for his vivid documentation of rock 'n' roll legends like John Lennon, Tina Turner, and The Rolling Stones, has created some of the most enduring images of music culture. His work spans generations and continues to inspire artists and fans worldwide.

• George Tice (in memoriam), a master of American photographic tradition, was known for his black-and-white images capturing the quiet dignity of small-town life and urban landscapes. Tice’s work has left an indelible mark on the medium. APAG is proud to honor his memory and the profound influence of his legacy.

APAG LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN ARCHIVE MANAGEMENT Shaw Family Archives and The Michael and Jeanne Falk Adams/Ansel Adams Archive

This year, APAG recognized two distinguished archives for their unwavering dedication to preserving and promoting the history of photography:

• The Shaw Family Archives was honored for its outstanding stewardship of Sam Shaw’s vast and iconic body of work, including timeless images of Marilyn Monroe, Paul Newman, and the American film industry.

• The Michael and Jeanne Falk Adams / Ansel Adams Archive received the award for its continued preservation and public engagement efforts, which have kept the spirit and philosophy of Ansel Adams alive for future generations.

APAG also honored the Board members who have contributed to APAG’s success over our 25-year history. The service awards are:

Member of the Year

Hank Gans, photographer

25 Year Service Award

Grayson Dantzic, photographer, and archivist, Jerry Dantzic Archive

25th Anniversary Service Award

Ernest Londa, attorney

25th Anniversary Service Award

Julie Grahame, consultant, and representative, Yousuf Karsh Archive

Distinguished Service Award

Robert Gurbo, Director, The Andre and Elisabeth Kertesz Foundation

"It is an honor to celebrate such a remarkable group of photographers, archives, and advocates," said Mary Engel, APAG Founder and Executive Director. "Each awardee represents excellence, innovation, and dedication in their field. These awards shine a light on the extraordinary contributions being made every day to preserve photography’s past and shape its future. We are proud to recognize their life’s work, which continues to inspire and educate generations to come."