The Royal Photographic Society has unveiled the distinguished winners of its prestigious 2025 awards, showcasing an extraordinary collection of photographic talent from across the United Kingdom and beyond. This year's competition attracted thousands of entries, with judges selecting works that demonstrate exceptional technical skill and creative vision across multiple categories.
Celebrating Photographic Excellence
Among the standout winners is acclaimed photographer Susan Derges, whose innovative approach to camera-less photography continues to push the boundaries of the medium. Derges, known for her pioneering work creating photographic images directly in nature, has been recognised for her latest series that explores the intersection of science and art through unique photographic processes.
The awards ceremony, held in November 2025, brought together the photography community to honour achievements across various specialisms including portraiture, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography. The society's president emphasised the remarkable diversity and quality of submissions this year, noting how entrants have embraced both traditional techniques and cutting-edge digital technologies.
Notable Winners and Their Work
This year's winners represent a fascinating cross-section of contemporary photographic practice. Several emerging photographers received recognition alongside established names, demonstrating the society's commitment to nurturing new talent while celebrating experienced practitioners. The selected works address themes ranging from environmental concerns to intimate personal narratives, reflecting the dynamic role photography plays in documenting and interpreting our world.
The award-winning images will be featured in a special exhibition touring major UK galleries throughout 2026, offering the public an opportunity to experience these remarkable photographs firsthand. This touring exhibition has become a highlight of the British cultural calendar, attracting photography enthusiasts and general art lovers alike.
The Legacy of the Royal Photographic Society
Founded in 1853, the Royal Photographic Society has maintained its position as one of the world's most respected photographic organisations for over 170 years. The society's annual awards have launched countless careers and continue to set the standard for photographic excellence internationally. Their commitment to advancing the art and science of photography remains as relevant today as when the society was first established during the Victorian era.
This year's winners join an illustrious lineage of photographic innovators recognised by the society throughout its history. The 2025 awards particularly highlighted work that demonstrates technical mastery while addressing contemporary issues, with several winning photographers exploring themes of climate change, social justice, and technological transformation through their lens-based practices.
The complete collection of winning images is available for public viewing through the society's digital archives and physical exhibitions, ensuring these important works reach the widest possible audience. Photography enthusiasts and collectors are already noting the significance of this year's selections, with several works expected to become defining images of our current era.
