Remarkable Uses of Color in Photography from the International Amateur Photographer of the Year Competition 2026

In this article, we celebrate the vibrant and impactful use of color showcased in the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2026 competition. Each image reflects the unique approaches of talented photographers, capturing stunning compositions that range from bold and bright to subtle and soft. The judicious use of color—whether in portraits, landscapes, or abstract studies—can significantly enhance a narrative or evoke an emotion, as illustrated by the winners and top participants of this year’s competition.

Trevor Lake: Dominating the Color Palette

1. A Framed Glance by Trevor Lake: Celebrating Color category winner, 100pts

Camera Settings: FUJIFILM X-T4, 85.0 mm, 1/125 sec, f/1.8, ISO 2500

Trevor Lake's winning image presents a woman in a cab, caught in a candid moment. The blurred backdrop and soft blue tones envelop her, creating a serene atmosphere that captivates the viewer. The contrast between the outside world's warm chaos and the woman's tranquil demeanor emphasizes the personal narrative occurring within the sealed space of the taxi. This composition draws the viewer into an intimate engagement, focusing on the complexities of human experience through color and focus.

2. Something to Laugh About by Trevor Lake

Camera Settings: FUJIFILM X-T4, 13.0 mm, 1/250 sec, f/10, ISO 160

Lake's second entry presents a vibrant portrait that shouts joy. The woman's bright hair and bold orange earrings scream personality and energy, making for an engaging and lively image. The composition aptly keeps the focus on her infectious smile, proving how a simple subject can deliver impactful imagery when paired with vivid color choices and strong emotional resonance. The overall effect is a celebration of life and vibrancy, drawing the viewer in with its charm.

Exploring Unique Perspectives

3. Little Steps by Sirsendu Gayen, 80pts

Camera Settings: NIKON D80, 35mm, 1/250 sec, f/10, ISO 250

Gayen's photograph creatively captures the grandeur of Jaipur’s Jantar Mantar. The bold yellows and oranges amplify the imposing architecture while a diminutive human figure imbues a sense of scale and narrative. The steps, curvatures, and shadows engage the viewer, turning an architectural shot into a vibrant, life-filled portrayal of culture. This photograph masterfully balances color and human interaction, demonstrating how the right compositional choices can evoke emotion and curiosity.

4. Pink and Purple by Charles Ashton, 70pts

Camera Settings: FUJIFILM GFX100S, GF32-64mm at 32mm, 1/320 sec, f/4, ISO 1000

Ashton's atmospheric photograph deploys a delicate color palette of pinks and purples, creating an almost ethereal scene. The contrast of the red doorway draws the eye, while the positioning of the woman adds depth and intrigue. This image exemplifies how subtle color choices can convey a dreamlike quality, engaging the viewer in an exploration of the mundane brought to life through artistry.

5. Between Earth and Sky by Natalie Weigum, 60pts

Camera Settings: NIKON Z6 II, 24-70mm at 26.5mm, 1/8 sec, f/7.1, ISO 100

Weigum’s landscape photograph showcases the transition of earth and sky in stunning colors. The reflective qualities of Salar de Uyuni create a perfect mirror effect, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. The figure standing alone adds scale and emotion, providing a contemplative focal point within the tranquil scene. The combination of space, color, and reflection results in an image that conveys a profound sense of wonder.

6. Study in Blue by Graeme Youngson, 50pts

Camera Settings: FUJIFILM X-T50, 33mm, 1/1000 sec, f/8, ISO 200

Youngson’s image transforms the everyday subject of a swimming pool into an abstract composition. The striking blue tones and geometric patterns create an engaging visual experience, while the swimmers add movement and life. This thoughtful approach to perspective plays with the viewer's expectations, inviting them to discover color in familiar settings.

7. Colour Full by Peter Murrell, 45pts

Camera Settings: NIKON D700, 50.0 mm, 1/100 sec, f/2, ISO 2500

Murrell’s portrait taps into the emotive power of color, featuring a woman whose radiant red attire contrasts beautifully with the cooler elements in the background. The image's focus on her confident gaze captures a moment of connection, while the sharp depth of field ensures the viewer's attention remains on the subject. This portrait is an example of how skillfully handling color can elevate a simple concept into a compelling visual statement.

8. Wash Day Blues… and Reds by Jerry Holmes, 40pts

Camera Settings: OLYMPUS E-M1X, 12-40mm at 18mm, 1/80 sec, f/4, ISO 3200

Holmes presents an engaging interpretation of a laundromat scene. The bold hues of the woman's dress against the blue washing machines create a visually striking image that exudes a playful vibe. The composition’s symmetry juxtaposes with the cheerful character of the subject, resulting in a humorous yet thoughtful interaction with everyday life.

9. Drying Incense by Azim Khan Ronnie, 35pts

Camera Settings: Hasselblad L1D-20c, 28.0 mm, 1/160 sec, f/4.5, ISO 100

Ronnie's image captures a traditional production process in a vivid manner. The arranged incense sticks form a colorful, almost abstract pattern across the frame. The inclusion of figures adds dynamism and scale, effectively blending human activity with striking visuals. This work celebrates the intricate play of color and shapes in each component of the scene.

10. A Blue Tit Among Rose Hips in Autumn! by Dr. John Mihopulos, 30pts

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R1, 600mm at 840mm (+ EXTENDER RF1.4x), 1/5000 sec, f/5.6, ISO 8000

Mihopulos captures a beautiful avian moment, where the colors of a blue tit contrast vividly with the warm tones of autumn rose hips. The composition draws the viewer into a serene nature scene while showcasing the delicate interplay of color in the ordinary. This image serves as a reminder that compelling photography can often be found in familiar surroundings.

Adrian Kaletta: Young International Amateur Photographer of the Year

A Bugs View by Adrian Kaletta: Celebrating Colour category winner, 100pts

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R7, 18-35mm at 18mm, 1/1000 sec, f/9, ISO 400

Kaletta presents a whimsical interpretation of a flower installation viewed from a low perspective. The vibrant palette transforms the ordinary into a fantastical landscape full of shapes and colors that suggest a miniature world. The image invites exploration and wonder, using color and composition to ignite the imagination. This playful approach perfectly encapsulates the spirit of creativity celebrated in this competition.

Untitled by Andrew Sanfilippo, 90pts

Camera Settings: NIKON Z, 14mm, 1/500 sec, f/5, ISO 200

In this striking architectural shot, Sanfilippo showcases a bold contrast of stark white and vivid green. The upward angle adds a dynamic feel while the juxtaposition with the organic elements of the palm tree adds depth. This image demonstrates the power of color in transforming modern architecture into a statement of vibrant aesthetics.

Untitled by Dorothy Slinkard, 80pts

Camera Settings: Canon PowerShot ELPH 180, 1/30 sec, f/3.2, ISO 800

Slinkard's underwater photograph captures the ethereal beauty of a jellyfish against an intense blue backdrop. This simplicity in composition allows the colors to be the star, creating a dreamy quality that elevates the subject to a near-spiritual experience. This image is a testament to how color can transform fleeting moments into timeless art.

Passing Through by Lilien Bodo, 70pts

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R50, 55-210mm at 108mm, 1/320 sec, f/7.1, ISO 100

Bodo's image utilizes silhouette and sunlight to craft a cinematic moment. The rich orange and gold hues evoke warmth and nostalgia, while the figure reaching out adds human intrigue and mystery. This image successfully demonstrates how color, light, and composition can transform everyday scenes into visually compelling narratives.

Highlighting Standout Works from Camera Clubs

Celebrating Colour by Andrew Knight, Plymouth Camera Club

Camera Settings: SONY ILCE-7RM2, 28-75mm at 37mm, 1/40 sec, f/6.3, ISO 400

Knight’s image leaps off the screen with bold colors and playful subject matter. Vivid shadows and a contrasting red background make this a visually striking composition, showcasing both creativity and graphic design skills.

Les Cucaracha by Steve Field, Bristol Photographic Society

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R5m2, 24-70mm at 70mm, 1/160 sec, f/9, ISO 200

Field’s captivating portrait melds striking natural elements with color symbolism creatively. The bold red hair captures attention, melding intrigue with contrasting motifs that invite deeper viewer reflection.

A Carpet of Bluebells by Marriam Hughes, Littlehampton Camera Club

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R6m2, 100-400mm at 400mm, 1/20 sec, f/13, ISO 100

Hughes’s photograph showcases a vibrant coverage of bluebells in a woodland setting. The rich colors work harmoniously, drawing the viewer into a serene natural environment. This thoughtful composition creates layers of depth within the image.

Yellow Wall by Paul Powici, Eastbourne Photographic Society

Camera Settings: Not supplied

Powici focuses on simplicity with a vivid yellow foreground against a blue sky. This visually balanced composition strips the scene down to its essence, letting strong colors do all the talking.

Red Wait by Gwen Berry, Ely Photographic Club

Camera Settings: Canon EOS R5, 35mm, 1/640 sec, f/8, ISO 400

Berry’s minimalist composition contrasts stark shadows against intense red architecture. The simplicity and vibrance create a memorable visual experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Gear Spotlight: Equipment Behind the Lens

Let's take a closer look at the cameras and lenses that helped create these celebrated images.

Trevor Lake, for both of his stunning images, relied on the Fujifilm X-T4. This compact mirrorless camera features a 26.1-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, capable of delivering high-quality photos even in challenging lighting. It's available used from Park Cameras for around £799.

Charles Ashton used the Fujifilm GF 32-64mm f4 R LM WR for his fourth-placed image. This medium format zoom lens is known for its exceptional optical performance and is priced at £1,925 from Park Cameras.

Jerry Holmes chose the OM System M.Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 to achieve his playful laundromat shot. This versatile lens is available for £999 and delivers high image quality with IP53 weather sealing, making it suitable for a variety of shooting conditions.

For more information on gear used by top photographers, visit www.parkcameras.com.