Celebrating Color: Highlights from the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025

Celebrating the Best of Color Photography

The results are in for the latest round of the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025 competition, specifically focusing on the theme of color. With a successful debut for the "Celebrating Colour" round, photographers showcased their artistic prowess through a variety of stunning images. This round received exceptional entries, each telling their unique stories through hues and tones. Below, we break down the top images and their merit as noted by the judges.

Top Photographs: Celebrating Colour

1. A True Blue by Sonia Daneluzzi, UK - 100pts

Camera: Sony A7 Mark III | Lens: 28-70mm | Exposure: 1/2000sec at f/4 | ISO: 160

Sonia's photograph stands out for its captivating shades of blue, effectively supported by the contrasting modes of transport. The image features a cloaked figure casually moving into the frame, blending into the architecture yet bringing a human element to the composition. The shadows on the wall add depth, reinforcing the image’s overall interest. Minimalism in color selection proves strong in creating a visually engaging photograph.

2. Yellow Ladder and Blue Sea by Christer Björkman, Sweden - 90pts

Camera: Fujifilm X-T3 | Lens: 90mm | Exposure: 1/1000sec at f/9 | ISO: 160

Christer Björkman’s image captivates viewers with its bold color contrast. The simplicity of the ladder against the indigo sea creates an alluring visual tension. The balance of curves and straight lines enhances the composition, with shadows adding dimensionality. This expert execution evokes more than just a fleeting snapshot, proving the photographer's authentic artistry.

3. Damrak Windows 2 by Brian Denton, UK - 80pts

Camera: Sony A7R Mark II | Lens: 16-35mm at 29mm | Exposure: 1/80sec at f/10 | ISO: 200

This architectural scene from Amsterdam presents a riot of colors reflected in the windows, combining rich tones of red, brown, and blue. Denton's striking framing and the abstract-like quality of the colorful reflections create a mesmerizing visual experience. The blurred elements reflect not only light but narrate the scene’s life, drawing viewers into the rich character of the city.

4. Red on Yellow by Ales Krivec, Slovenia - 70pts

Camera: Nikon D810A | Lens: 150-600mm at 600mm | Exposure: 1/2500sec at f/6.3 | ISO: 400

Krivec's photograph efficiently compresses the colorful scene using the long end of his zoom lens, ensuring the lorry and canola flowers interact harmoniously. The composition, with the vehicle positioned artfully on the thirds, creates visual excitement and keeps the viewer’s interest piqued.

5. Hong Kong Estate by Paul Healy, UK - 60pts

Camera: Apple iPhone 14 Pro | 21mm-equiv | Exposure: 1/900sec at f/2.2 | ISO: 40

Healy's skillful use of leading lines draws attention to the central figure, providing balance against a medley of vibrant hues. The organization within a chaotic color palette showcases his technical capabilities in composition, creating a cohesive yet dynamic photograph.

6. Sunflower Girl by Rahimat Onize Shaibu, UK - 50pts

Camera: Canon EOS R6 Mark II | Lens: 24–105mm at 35mm | Exposure: 1/160sec at f/4 | ISO: 500, Lighting: Godox AD400Pro Flash

Rahimat's self-portrait speaks volumes through its bold color choices and meaningful representation. The yellow schema is skillfully repeated through her makeup and attire, enhancing the image's message. This technical competence in lighting and composition elevates the portrait beyond a simple image to a powerful visual statement.

7. Being Assimilated by Jerry Holmes, UK - 45pts

Camera: Olympus E-M1X | Lens: 45mm | Exposure: 1/2000sec at f/2 | ISO: 1250

This stylish portrait showcases contrasting neon colors effectively while exuding a modern aesthetic. Holmes emphasizes the subject’s personality through a creative use of lighting found near a marketing board, proving that great shots don't always require elaborate setups.

8. Poolside by Nicola David, UK - 40pts

Camera: Samsung SM-G981B | 26mm-equiv | Exposure: 1/250sec at f/1.8 | ISO: 320

In this serene shot, David captures the beauty of soft gradients between contrasting colors. The careful symmetry and the peaceful atmosphere make the viewer wish to linger in the moment—a great testament to David's subtlety and compositional skills.

9. Painting by Lauren McCabe, Portugal - 35pts

Camera: Sony A6400 | Lens: 18-135mm at 28mm | Exposure: 1/2000sec at f/9 | ISO: 400

A multidimensional narrative unfolds in McCabe's striking portrait. The bold blues dominate the scene, while subtle pastel colors enhance the emotional resonance. The guest judge noted engaging storytelling potential, suggesting that more action could have further elevated the storytelling nature of the photograph.

10. Drive-In Menu by Mike Morton, UK - 30pts

Camera: Fujifilm X-T10 | Lens: 10-24mm at 10mm | Exposure: 1/850sec at f/8 | ISO: 400

Morton's image is an explosion of colors, spotlighting the communicative potential of bold choices. The composition harmoniously leads from the focal point outward, creating a nostalgic ambiance inspired by diner culture. The image distinctly reflects a playful spirit while adhering to conventional compositional rules.

Young Photographer of the Year Winner

Heading for Shore by Edward Davies, UK - 100pts

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV | Lens: 70-200mm at 200mm | Exposure: 1/500sec at f/2.8 | ISO: 200

Edward's winning photograph demonstrates skillful minimalism, with a striking blue boat set against a dark backdrop. The clever use of negative space emphasizes the boat's vivid color, encapsulating how a single hue can dramatically influence our perception of a scene. This shot combines simplicity with boldness to create visual impact.

Selected Entries from Camera Club Competition

This round also highlights remarkable work from various camera clubs, showcasing the community’s photographic talent.

Silhouette by Denise Compton, Nantwich Camera Club

Camera: Fujifilm X-T2 | Lens: 18-55mm at 18mm | Exposure: 1/60sec at f/18 | ISO: 320

Compton’s image artfully utilizes backlighting to create a striking silhouette. The timing of the capture enhances the composition, showcasing the intricacies of shadow and form against vivid colors.

Eames Stacking Chair by Neville Morgan, Muswell Hill Photographic Society

Camera: Olympus E-M1 Mark III | Lens: 12-100mm at 34mm | Exposure: 1/4sec at f/5.6 | ISO: 200

Morgan's precise composition and strategic color placement make the image visually effective. The red and green elements coming together create a strong visual appeal.

Lady in Red by John Boteler, Oxford Photographic Society

Camera: Canon EOS 6D | Lens: 24-105mm at 84mm | Exposure: 1/80sec at f/5 | ISO: 800

This candid image captures a powerful moment in everyday life, juxtaposed against vibrant colors that tell a compelling story.

Blyth Beach Huts by Victoria Najafi, Gateshead Camera Club

Camera: Nikon D90 | Exposure: 1/400sec at f/10 | ISO: 200

Najafi showcases vivid beach huts against contrasting elements such as cloud patterns and tire tracks, proving that composition is key in attracting viewers' attention.

Dawn Lines by Pete Baker, Royston Camera Club

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV | Lens: 50mm | Exposure: 1/200sec at f/8 | ISO: 250

Baker’s tranquil shot conveys a subtle celebration of color, offering a peaceful contrast enhanced by the compelling use of leading lines.

Conclusion: The Impact of Color in Photography

The "Celebrating Colour" round in the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2025 highlighted the creativity and skills of both amateur and young photographers. As seen through the winning images, the power of color plays an essential role in visual storytelling. Moving forward through the competition, the emphasis on color will continue to inspire new perspectives and approaches in photography.

What’s Next?

With the leaderboard data showing tight competition, the remaining rounds hold potential for exciting developments. Keep an eye on upcoming entries as photographers refine their skills and experiments with color continue to reshape their narratives.

Discover more about the competition and view stunning works on the official APOY page.