1ST PRIZE: Natalie Strohmaier

“If the film director David Cronenberg (known for his disturbing subject matter, often referred to as ‘body horror’) was a botanist, he might have developed a hybrid such as we see in all its lovely unnaturalness here in Red Beauty. A real-life composite, literally constructed from disparate flower parts and photographed in a vaguely anthropomorphic pose. Many submissions achieved technical perfection and registered themselves stylistically within a defined category such as portrait, landscape, or still life, but none had as much mystery and compelled a longer look as the series from which Red Beauty was drawn. Enchanting and disturbing in equal measure.”  – Greg Girard

2ND PRIZE: Stephen King

“The natural world abounds in powerful photographic possibilities, and for most of us is probably experienced more in photographs than in actuality. What is rare is the photograph that registers the power and beauty of the natural world while at the same time, almost subliminally, registering the sense that a person was standing there, making the picture, having prepared for this moment in some undecipherable way. Not to speak of any heroics but more the unspoken recognition that some combination of pre-visualisation, determination, and of course talent that had to come together to deliver a photograph from an environment that is likely hostile to the unprepared. Still, the back story or explanation never matters, except anecdotally. What matters is the photograph, especially the kind that leaves us somewhat speechless. As this one does.” – Greg Girard

3RD PRIZE: Giuseppe Gradella

“A stunning portrait, the photographer’s skillful use of the raindrops as a creative element, enhances its overall impact, creating a diffused effect that adds a layer of depth and texture, and accentuates the slightly surreal, dream-like quality. The subject’s dark clothes contrast beautifully with her red lipstick and the yellow backdrop, whilst her pose, combined with the raindrop-covered window, creates a mood of introspection and melancholy, drawing the viewer into the image.“ – The Independent Photographer Editors