Highlights from the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025: Top Images and Insights

The final results of the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025 competition have been unveiled, featuring a diverse range of creative works. Rahimat Onize Shaibu clinched the top spot in the Open category with his compelling photograph, ‘The Sun Within’. Meanwhile, Oscar Black was recognized as the winner in the Young APOY competition. Here’s a look at the top 10 images from Round Ten and insights from the AP team and guest judges.

This year’s Open round allowed photographers to explore any subject, from still-lifes to abstract compositions, a decision made after last year's successful launch of this format. The results showcased a thrilling variety of submissions, which prompted the decision to bring in two guest judges to ensure a fair assessment given the wide range of styles and subjects. Notably, some photographers had multiple images in the top ten, yet only their highest-placed work contributed to their overall score.

International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025, Open Winner

The Sun Within by Rahimat Onize Shaibu (UK) – 100 points

Camera: Canon EOS R6 Mark II, Lens: 24–70mm at 52mm, Exposure: 1/180 sec at f/4, ISO 200

This striking portrait breaks conventions by positioning the model's back to the camera, evoking the essence of impending illumination against a vibrant orange backdrop. The inclusion of three sunflowers enhances depth, preventing the image from feeling flat. Shaibu's sophisticated execution of the theme is encapsulated in the title, ‘The Sun Within’, inviting the viewer to delve into deeper reflections.

2. Movement by Shai Kedar (Israel) – 90 points

Camera: Sony A6600, Lens: 16-55mm at 16mm, Exposure: 1/2500 sec at f/4.5, ISO 100

Guest judge Ben Brain praised this image for its boldness and energy. The low-angle perspective establishes an intimate connection, capturing an anarchic scene filled with chaotic elements. The composition, which appears spontaneous yet cohesive, demonstrates Kedar's decisive timing. The choice to convert the image to black and white adds an artistic layer to the moment.

3. Blood of the Cattle by Bircan Harper (UK) – 80 points

Camera: Nikon Z 9, Lens: 135mm, Exposure: 1/250 sec at f/6.3, ISO 12,800

In this powerful environmental portrait taken in Ethiopia, Harper captures the essence of a ritual where young men drink cow's blood. The focused composition emphasizes the emotional connection between the subject and the cattle, creating an impactful narrative without overwhelming the viewer. Harper’s meticulous framing draws attention to the moment while subtly incorporating the environment.

4. Blessed Rain by Rahimat Onize Shaibu (UK) – 0 points

Camera: Canon EOS R6 Mark II, Lens: 24–70mm at 48mm, Exposure: 1/180 sec at f/2.8, ISO 160

This image showcases Shaibu's signature style once more. The concept is well executed with a low-key color palette that enhances the mood. The careful balance of tones exhibits exceptional post-processing skill, highlighting Shaibu's ability to create striking imagery that resonates with viewers.

5. Gliding Through Serenity by Azim Khan Ronnie (France) – 60 points

Drone: DJI Mavic 3 Pro, Lens: 24mm, Exposure: 1/80 sec at f/5.6, ISO 100

Ronnie secured the second spot with a mesmerizing aerial shot of kayakers enveloped in a tranquil turquoise sea. His choice to position the team centrally against an expansive backdrop exemplifies his mastery of negative space, creating a striking visual narrative of serenity and space.

6. Floating Fruit Market by Azim Khan Ronnie (France, Bangladesh) – 0 points

Drone: DJI Mavic 3 Pro, Lens: 24mm, Exposure: 1/80 sec at f/5.6, ISO 100

This image contrasts with his previous one, featuring a bustling panorama of trade boats filled with vibrant produce. Ronnie's skillful composition directs the viewer's gaze through the dynamic market scene, immersing them in the richness of the moment.

7. Held in Reflection by Bircan Harper (UK) – 0 points

Camera: Nikon Z 9, Lens: 85mm, Exposure: 1/2500 sec at f/2, ISO 200

In this enchanting portrait, Harper builds a captivating visual narrative around a child and a mirror. Her choice of a wide aperture emphasizes the face paint while providing a soft focus background, creating a dreamlike quality that invites deeper reflection.

8. Rhossili Bay Foal by Sara Williams (UK) – 40 points

Camera: Sony Cyber-shot RX10 Mark IV, Lens: 8.8-220mm at 24mm equivalent, Exposure: 1/4000 sec at f/2.4, ISO 100

Williams captured an endearing portrait of a pony, effectively highlighting its curious demeanor. With a clever framing technique, she captures the foal’s character while ensuring the background remains softly blurred, allowing the subject to shine without distractions.

9. Mind the Roses by Andrew Alexander (UK) – 35 points

Camera: Pentax 67, Lens: 135mm, Film: Kodak Tri-X, Exposure: 1/500 sec

This classic documentary photograph captures the essence of the Royal Shrovetide football match with striking clarity. Alexander's use of a short telephoto lens compresses the scene, enriching the viewer’s experience by drawing them into this traditional event with its rich history.

10. Yellow Wave by Ulrike Unterbruner (Austria) – 30 points

Camera: Sony A7R Mark IV, Lens: 35mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec at f/8, ISO 100

Ulrike’s photograph reinterprets an ordinary piece of plastic into an abstract seascape. This unconventional approach requires the viewer's engagement and imagination, showcasing her distinctive artistic vision and confidence in utilizing metaphorical imagery.

Young Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025, Open Winner

Silent Reflection by Oscar Black (UK) – 100 points

Camera: Sony A7 Mark III, Lens: 28-200mm at 39mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec at f/11, ISO 50

Black's expertly crafted low-key portrait highlights his skills in managing light to enhance detail and texture. The evocative quality of the black-and-white treatment lends a cinematic feel, enhancing the sensitivity of the subject’s expression.

Camera Club Competition Highlights

This round also features notable entries from various camera clubs participating in APOY.

The Diamond Jubilee Sundial by Tracey Small (Launceston Camera Club)

Camera: Fujifilm X-T4, Lens: 18-135mm at 18mm, Exposure: 30 sec at f/16, ISO 160

This evocative photograph exudes a cinematic quality enhanced by stunning cloud formations, creating an intriguing atmosphere.

Maid of Steel by Paul Farina (Plymouth Camera Club)

Technical info not supplied

Farina’s stark depiction of the Angel of the North, shot against an unobtrusive background, effectively emphasizes the sculpture’s grandeur.

Whispers of a New Day by Mike Morley (Harrogate Photographic Society)

Camera: Nikon Z 8, Lens: 180-600mm at 430mm, Exposure: 1/1000 sec at f/6, ISO 2000

This enchanting silhouette of deer captures the tranquility of early morning, managing depth while preserving detail.

Strawberry Milkshake Splash by Jane Jones (Stafford Photographic Society)

Camera: Google Pixel 9, Lens: 49mm equivalent, Exposure: 1/1050 sec at f/1.7, ISO 952

Jones captures an exciting blend of action and still life, highlighting the splash with great timing, which elevates the composition.

Maze by Linda Wride (Oxford Photographic Society)

Camera: Nikon Z 7II, Lens: 24-120mm at 44mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec at f/20, ISO 720

This abstract work plays with perception, presenting swirling patterns that are visually striking and thought-provoking.

2025 Leaderboards After Round Ten, Open

The leaderboard reveals that Bircan Harper from Cornwall is in the lead after earning top honors with her evocative portrait. Azim Khan Ronnie follows closely, with his stunning aerial shots impressing judges throughout the competition. It has been a year of high scores, showcasing the caliber of talent participating in the APOY.

In the Young APOY category, a rare tie emerges, with Ben Hancock-Smith and Matteo Botta both achieving 355 points.

Plymouth Camera Club also celebrates a notable victory, winning the league title for the second consecutive year. Congratulations to all participants!

Gear Insights from Camera Centre UK

What did the top photographers use to achieve their award-winning images? Let’s take a look:

Winning photographer Rahimat Onize Shaibu utilized the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, a full-frame mirrorless model renowned for its rapid shooting capabilities and advanced autofocus. Priced at £1,899, this camera has garnered praise for its performance in various conditions.

Bircan Harper, who excelled in both first and third places, used the Nikon Z 135mm f1.8 S Plena FX lens. Esteemed for its image quality, this lens retails for £2,599 and is designed for professional use with remarkable sharpness and handling.

Meanwhile, Ulrike Unterbruner achieved her 10th place with the outstanding Sony FE 35mm f1.4 G Master lens, adept at delivering nuanced imagery and valued at £1,429. This lens is recognized for its impressive construction and image quality.

For a comprehensive selection of photography gear, visit Camera Centre UK.

Explore more about APOY and the entries at amateurphotographer.com/apoy.

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