Student recipients of the AOP Awards for the year 2025 have been declared
The 40th anniversary of the Association of Photographers (AOP) Student Photography Awards celebrated the best in UK photography talent, as the winners were announced at the Free Range graduate showcase in London. The competition, which is designed to recognise exceptional student photographers and help launch their professional careers, had finalists from three main categories: People, Places, and Things.
The prestigious Best in Show award was presented to Ritchie Elder, a student at Kingston University (taught at Edinburgh College), for his compelling portrait series titled *Faith*. Exploring religious diversity in Edinburgh, Elder's work showcases the rich tapestry of beliefs found within the city. His prize includes £2,500 worth of Fujifilm UK photography kit, as well as a one-year Capture One Studio subscription. Elder also won Gold in the People category and received five nominations overall.
In the People Category, Ritchie Elder took Gold, while Flavia Lotempio from Edinburgh College received the Silver award. Gold and Silver winners in each category receive a one-year Capture One ‘All in One’ subscription and a tailored AOP membership package to aid their professional development.
The Places Category saw John-Martin Bramham from City of Glasgow College take the Gold, with Emrys Thurgood from the University of the West of England earning the Silver. Similarly, the Things Category was won by Ewelina Rhys from Edinburgh College, with Anna Krypska from London Metropolitan University and Tom Percival Stein from Arts University Bournemouth taking the Silver and Bronze respectively.
Elinchrom provided an exclusive opportunity for one award winner to access a professional lighting setup for a day's shoot at Fujifilm’s House of Photography. This collaboration between Elinchrom and AOP aims to further shine a spotlight on emerging talent in the industry.
The AOP Student Award is open to photography students at FE level or higher, both from the UK and overseas. The competition has now selected the best emerging talent in photography for the 41st consecutive year, demonstrating its commitment to supporting and nurturing the next generation of photographers. The winning works were exhibited publicly at the Free Range graduate showcase from July 11-13, 2025.
The AOP is a UK-based organization that supports photographers, offering resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy. By recognising and rewarding outstanding student photographers, the AOP continues its mission to foster a vibrant and creative photography community in the UK.
Education and self-development opportunities were provided to the winners of the AOP Student Photography Awards. Ritchie Elder, the Best in Show winner, received a one-year Capture One Studio subscription and a tailored AOP membership package to aid his professional development.
