The Independent Photographer is delighted to return to London for the third consecutive year this October, for the 2025 edition of our annual Talents of the Year exhibition.
Running from October 9–11 at the PhotoBook Café in Shoreditch, the exhibition is free and open to all.
We are excited to once again welcome the London community to this special event, which has become a highlight of our calendar and an important platform for both emerging and established photographers.
As always, the exhibition will feature a curated selection from the past 12 months of awards, showcasing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners across all categories. Each selection has been made by world-renowned industry figures, including, Steve McCurry, who oversaw the People Award in December, Fiona Shields — Head of Photography at The Guardian — who judged the Open Call Award in February, celebrated visual artist Pia Riverola, who returned for a second year to lead the Color Award in April and world renowned American photographer and long-time National Geographic contributor Michael Yamashita, who judged this summer’s Travel Award.
We’re also delighted to continue the Visual Story Award, which returned in early 2024 after a brief hiatus. This year’s edition was judged by Elizabeth Krist, one of the most respected names in the industry. A former Senior Photo Editor at National Geographic, Krist spent more than two decades commissioning and publishing some of the most compelling visual narratives of our time.
In an era marked by misinformation and the rise of synthetic imagery, we remain steadfast in our belief that authentic photographic storytelling is more vital than ever. The powerful entries we received—and the final selection made by Krist—stand as a testament to photography’s enduring capacity to reveal, connect, and inspire.
Once again, we’re pleased to return to The PhotoBook Café for the third year running. Situated in the heart of Shoreditch, it’s become something of an unofficial home for us in London, a relaxed and welcoming space that reflects the spirit of our community. As in previous years, our trusted partners Rapid Eye Studios will handle all printing, ensuring each image is presented to the highest standard.
Whether you’re a working photographer, an art lover, or simply curious, we warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the medium we love.
The Independent Photographer – 2025 Annual Exhibition
October 9 – 11, 2025, The Photobook Cafe, Leonard Circus, London EC2A 4DQ
To find more information, share, and RSVP, visit the event on our Facebook page.
All images © their respective owners