The London Photography Awards Jury is exceptional in the depth of expertise it draws on from its extensive judging community, composed of highly respected and experienced professionals who have distinguished themselves in their field.
The jury panel comprised of experienced professionals in their field and industry, including creative and art directors from international agencies, established photographers, photo editors, art collectors, educators or business owners from around the world, bringing industry knowledge and category-specific skill sets to evaluate every entry.
It is with great gratitude and honor that we celebrate the Jury Panel for dedicating their time, knowledge as well as hard work to maintain the awards at the highest standards. Without this prestigious group of industry experts' commitment and enthusiasm, the awards program would not be possible.
Japan
ARTIST, PHOTOGRAPHER, RYO UTSUNOMIYA
Ryo Utsunomiya is an artist with a diverse background, having started his career as a musician, worked in school education, and then turned to photographer. His style and diverse background have been highly praised by museums and others, and he also teaches art museum seminar at schools and serves as artistic director of music festivals. As a photographer, he has received high acclaim in recent years at various international photography awards, including winning Photographer of the Year at the MUSE Photography Awards 2024, and is actively exhibiting in museums and art galleries.
Spain
Freelance Photographer, Francis De Andrés
Francis was born in Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain. He’s a graduate in Economics and possesses a Master in Business Administration and Management. In 2021, he decided to change his personal life in order to dedicate it to his two great passions, his family and wildlife photography. Since then he has been working professionally as a freelance photographer. Throughout his career, he has travelled to many places to take various photographs, such as: Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia, Arctic, Hokkaido & Honchu, Pantanal Brazil, Yellowstone, Norway-Tromsø-Flatanger, Denmark, England, Italian Alps, Scotland, Poland, Hungary, North Sea, Ireland, Costa Rica, and many locations on the Iberian Peninsula. At the side, he collaborates with several organizations dedicated to nature conservation, as well as with books, magazines, and different publications. He has also worked with television and radio programs and has various exhibitions for various genres of photographs, such as: Fine Art, Festimage, etc.
France
Artist Photographer, Marine Foissey Photography
Marine Foissey is a talented French photographer whose works have been showcased in exhibitions across France, Luxembourg, Poland, and Spain.
Foissey developed an early affinity for culture and art, deeply influenced by her upbringing. Her parents used each holiday as a chance to immerse themselves and Marine in the world of Culture and Art. The exploration of museums, exhibitions, and historical sites during travels became a rite of passage that honed Marine's appreciation for the richness of Art. Foissey is on an ongoing quest for poetic expression, seeking it in both her creative work and personal life. She challenges the notion that an image can stand alone, choosing instead to title her photographs and augment them with narrative text.
Her collections, meticulously curated into series, embody this philosophy, with each photograph conveying significance, sentiment, beauty, and her unique artistic fingerprint, whether viewed individually or as part of a collective.
Czech Republic
Qualified European Photographer, Tomáš Neuwirth Photography
Tomáš Neuwirth, an internationally acclaimed photographer, excels in drone photography.. The emergence of drones later opened new vistas for his photography, allowing him to capture stunning aerial shots with commercial drones. Today, he is deeply involved in both professional drone and traditional photography, elevating the art form by choosing unique locations and enhancing images through post-production. His work transcends from mere landscape to the realm of fine art. Notably, he is the first Czech photographer to be a finalist in multiple awards and his work has been showcased in numerous countries. His work has been frequently chosen by the Paris online gallery Singulart. Notably, he was nominated for the Personality of Czech Photography in 2019 and was part of the Czech team for the 2022 World Photographic Cup (WPC). He holds the Qualified European Photographer (QEP) title in the Drone category.
Italy
Professional Photographer, Visual Artist, Printmaking Expert, alessandraminottigraphic.com
Alessandra Minotti is a renowned photographer, visual artist, and expert in printing and development. After completing her studies in art and photography, she began her professional career in 1994 by founding a photography lab in Rome.
Minotti has excelled in a variety of photography genres, including weddings, still-life, interiors, and fashion, all while honing her skills in analog development and printing. Her work often involves multiple exposures and sophisticated photo manipulation, creating surreal and thought-provoking imagery.
Minotti’s art explores deep and complex themes such as identity, violence against women, psychophysical well-being, healthy eating, and environmental concerns, frequently drawing on her own life experiences. Her work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions across Italy, Spain, and internationally. She has authored both a monograph and an eBook, and her artwork has been recognized in prestigious art publications and showcased on the Saatchi Gallery London screen for six consecutive years.
United States
Master Photographer | Digital Artist | Fine Art Fanatic, KKSFINEARTS and Ksfinearts
Kalina Schneider is an internationally acclaimed Master Photographer and digital artist hailing from Florida. With a specialization in Fine Art and Fantasy Portraiture, Kalina's work is a vivid tapestry of color, magic, and dreamlike aesthetics that captivate viewers and spark their imagination. Having earned her Master’s of Photography and Master Craftsmen credentials from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), Kalina is a two-time Grand Imaging Award finalist for her exceptional portraits that embody creativity and storytelling. Delving into a personal journey of self-discovery, Kalina's photography serves as a visual narrative that transcends cultural boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide. Drawing inspiration from her multicultural experiences and extensive travels, Kalina infuses her creations with elements of global art, theatrical costumes, vintage fashion, and ethnic fabrics. Together with her husband, Kelly Schneider, a fellow Master Photographer, Kalina shares her expertise by teaching fine art photography and photoshop editing for creative concepts. Their collaborative efforts extend to organizing immersive photography workshops in the USA, Ireland, Italy, and Indonesia (Bali), providing aspiring artists with hands-on learning experiences and a platform for artistic exploration. In every photograph and digital artwork created, Kalina Schneider invites viewers to embark on a visual journey that transcends reality, evoking emotions, sparking curiosity, and fostering connections across diverse cultures and backgrounds. She has been published in number of magazines online and in print. Kalina is on judging panels for acclaimed international photography competitions.
Italy
Professional Photographer, Patrizia Burra Photography
Patrizia Burra is a renowned photographer that specializes in portraits and digital manipulation.
Over the course of her career, Burra has earned numerous international awards and honorable mentions. Her work has been featured in prestigious publications, and she has showcased her photography in both Italy and overseas. She holds the title of MQEP (Master Qualified European Photographer). This recognition is a testament to her exceptional talent and artistic vision.
Her work captures the beauty of the world around us, from the grandeur of nature to the intimate moments of everyday life. Her limited edition prints are highly sought after, as they are a one-of-a-kind piece of art that will last a lifetime. Her photography is a celebration of life, capturing the beauty of the world in a way that is both timeless and modern. Her limited edition prints are a perfect way to bring her art into your home.
Portugal
CEO, Founder and Principal Architect, ATELIER CENTRAL
José Martinez Silva has been the CEO, founder, and principal architect at ATELIER CENTRAL (AC) since 1991. He is regularly invited to share his expertise as a guest speaker at conferences, seminars, master classes, and lectures. He has been involved in a broad spectrum of projects, spanning from small private residences to large-scale urban planning, encompassing residential, educational, civic, hotel, resort, commercial, leisure, industrial, and demonstrating a strong specialization in Brand Design in the automotive sector. In 2014, he introduced the start-up myBUILDIN, an online platform that leverages AC's wealth of knowledge to help users estimate the renovation costs for their homes, offices, or shops based on selected finishes and construction work. Recently, he founded ATCENTRAL Group, a private real estate investment and consulting firm, building on his architectural and management background. His work has been published in well-respected magazines, websites, blogs, and has been recognized in international competition.
Taiwan
Experimental Filmmaker and Visual Artist, AniMel Studio
Mel Hsieh is an experimental filmmaker and visual artist. He is an alumnus of London's Central Saint Martins, class of '09, with a BA in Graphic Design, and New York's School of Visual Arts, class of '15, with an MFA in Computer Art. His films have garnered a host of international accolades and have been featured at prestigious events such as LA Frieze Art, Scope Art Miami, Asia Now Paris Art Fair, Red Dot, D&AD, Athens Digital Arts Festival, Taipei Contemporary Art Centre, Brooklyn Film Festival, and the NY Video Art & Experimental Film Festival, among others. In his work, he delves into the interplay between art and animation, investigating their roles and theories within contemporary art practice. His relentless drive to innovate has established him as a vanguard in the intersection of art and technology, consistently pushing the boundaries of computer animation in contemporary art.
United Arab Emirates
Co-founder, Design Director and Photographer, Deerect Agency
Donell Gumiran is the co-founder, design director and photographer of Deerect, a design agency based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With two decades of profound expertise in design, photography, and branding domains, he is primarily focused on brand identity initiatives and continuously stays informed about the most current trends and methodologies in global design to adapt to any cultural or regional context with a creative approach. This results in the creation of unique and unforgettable work, which is approached from various perspectives to deliver versatile results. Gumiran’s favorite subjects center on encapsulating the human experience in everyday scenarios. He possesses a unique ability to draw viewers into the profound humanity of the individuals in his work. His talent has earned them numerous international award is frequently invited to speak as a source of inspiration at a variety of global photography conferences, where his exhibitions are also prominently featured.
Canada
Photographer, Lillian Liu Photography
Lillian Liu, a youthful and imaginative photographer, employs digital methods to craft distinctive visual artworks. Based in Vancouver, Canada, she is associated with Free Spirit in Paris.Liu is a self-taught individual, having earned a Masters degree in classical piano from the Royal College of Music in London, UK. Her clientele and notable features encompass Marie Claire Taiwan, Vogue Taiwan, Penguin Random House, Blanche Macdonald, HarperCollins, among others. Her work has been showcased in exhibitions at venues such as the Surrey Art Gallery, Arch Enemy Arts Gallery, Place Des Artes, and SevensGrant featuring Paris Hilton. She has shared her insights at events like the Canadian Imaging Conference and Expo for the Professional Photographers of Canada, as well as the Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences, and more. Her commitment to her craft is evident in her journey from self-taught beginnings to mastering classical piano at the Royal College of Music.
Canada
Painter, Filmmaker and Photographer, Bédarfoto
Jean-Thomas Bédard is a painter, filmmaker, photographer with over 30 years of experience under his belt as a director of animated films and documentaries. In 1985-86, Bédard took on the role of an animation cinema instructor at the Centro technico e audiovisual in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is engaged in a photographic exploration, capturing textures and colors inspired by nature. Through his artistic lens, he endeavors to showcase the dynamic landscape, inviting viewers to appreciate the natural beauty when the tides recedes along the St. Lawrence. At the age of 32, he set out on a year-long journey around the globe, dedicating himself to photography. This experience led to the development of an exhibition showcasing traditional lifestyles in Central America, the Pacific, and Indonesia. The exhibition premiered in Montreal and Toronto, notably at York University where his paintings are also displayed in various exhibition spaces.
United States
Fine Art Photographer, Gigi Chung Photography
Gigi Chung is a gifted fine art photographer that specializes in abstract architecture.
Through her artistry, she possesses the unique ability to distill complex and intricate scenes into captivating sculptural compositions, where lines, shapes, and contrast take center stage. This meticulous approach includes the conscious inclusion of elements that not only enhance visual appeal but also create an aesthetic harmony within her work. This distinct perspective has garnered her international acclaim, allowing her photography to grace the walls of renowned galleries and compete in some of the most distinguished photography contests across the globe. Her contributions to well-regarded photography publications serve as a testament to her standing as a distinguished artist within the field.
Her remarkable skills as a photographer have propelled her to international recognition, allowing her work to be showcased in prestigious galleries and elite photography competitions around the world, a testament to her talent behind the lens.
Singapore
Creative Partner, BEAMY
Ronn Lee is a versatile brand and design expert with two decades of experience in the field, spearheading projects in concept development, branding, graphic design, interactive media, and product innovation across various sectors. As the co-founder and creative lead of BEAMY, a creative and branding agency with its main office in Shanghai and additional locations in Singapore and New York, she has showcased remarkable initiative. Her journey took her from Singapore to Shanghai, where she was inspired by the growing demand for creative and branding services in China, leading to the establishment of BEAMY. Before her time in Shanghai, Ronn served as an Art Director in Tokyo. Her professional path through Singapore, Japan, and China has provided her with a deep understanding of diverse work cultures and design approaches. Ronn's contributions to the field have been recognized with over 100 international awards for design and creativity.
India
Independent Photographer and Analyst ,
Jai Thakur is an Independent Photographer from India. His practice investigates the conflicts that exist within society and within himself, as well as the connection between the two. He works as a Research Analyst during the day, and in his spare time, he practices photography. He has been a member of Diversify Photo since 2022. Additionally, he has successfully completed Reuters Digital Journalism Foundation Course in 2023.
For his efforts in raising awareness about river conservation, he was awarded 'Water Hero' by Govt. of India and appeared in the MX Player web series "Express Yourself". He received a grant from Sahapedia for his work on the Potters Community of Delhi and PoY Asia for Acid Attack work. He has been on the jury panel of several national and international photographic competitions.
Hong Kong SAR
Photographer, Short Film Director and Multimedia Producer., Hong Kong Mobile Photography Club
Benny Lau is a well-known photographer, short film director, and multimedia producer. Lau's groundbreaking achievement in 2018 as Hong Kong's inaugural full-time mobile phone photographer marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of photography in the region. His creative prowess has not only garnered him eight prestigious gold awards and first prizes in various local and global competitions but has also led to the inclusion of his films in the programs of numerous renowned international film festivals, solidifying his position as a respected artist on the global stage. He has built a remarkable expertise in the realm of mobile photography, a testament to his unwavering commitment to mastering this art form. With over a decade of experience, he has honed his skills in multimedia video creation, demonstrating a profound dedication to his craft.
Kenya
Co-Director and Social Photographer, World Urban Pavilion
Eduardo Moreno holds the position of co-director at the World Urban Pavilion and formally served as the director responsible for research and capacity development within the United Nations Human Settlements Programme. He is also an award-winning social photographer. Moreno holds a crucial position at the World Urban Pavilion, a collaboration between the Urban Economy Forum Association and UN-Habitat, supported by CMHC and The Daniels Corporation. As co-director, he actively shapes the Pavilion's vision and mission, spearheading initiatives to address urban challenges and promote sustainable development in partnership with these key organizations. Moreno captures powerful images that depict societal issues, using his visual storytelling skills to raise awareness and promote positive change.His multifaceted role demonstrates his commitment to advancing urban issues and his ability to drive meaningful change in collaboration with key stakeholders. Under his guidance, the Pavilion remains at the forefront of innovative solutions for urban challenges.
Canada
Photographer and Owner, Tea & Oranges
Ella Mack is an award-winning travel and portrait Australian photographer. Mack's journey through the less-trodden avenues of Latin America afforded her a unique perspective on the region's diverse cultures and landscapes. She immersed herself in the customs of Kazakh eagle hunters, sipping tea with them and gaining insights into their way of life. Similarly, her expeditions across the rugged terrains of eastern Africa, provided her with a deep connection to the earth's wild beauty which she masterfully translates into her photographic compositions. With a distinct artistic vision, her photography has the remarkable ability to take vast landscapes, each frame telling a story of its own. A quiet observer of intimate moments, she uses her photography to document the fleeting moments of love that form the essence of weddings and elopements. Her keen eye for detail complements her unobtrusive methodology, opting to seize authentic moments as they naturally occur.
India
Director, Viral Padiya Photography
Being a self-taught photographer, Viral Padiya has a deep passion for capturing the beauty of nature and landscapes. For him, it's a delightful chance to venture into the wilderness, establish a connection with nature, experience diverse surroundings, all of which contribute to making his photographs exceptionally captivating and truly distinctive. Padiya's love for photography knows no bounds, as he constantly seeks to capture the mesmerizing beauty of nature and landscapes. His passion drives him to immerse himself in the wilderness, where he forms a profound connection with the natural world. Through his lens, he skillfully translates his deep appreciation for the unique and captivating aspects of these environments into stunning photographs. Padiya's dedication to photography is unwavering, as he tirelessly pursues the perfect shot in the great outdoors. He goes to great lengths to explore diverse natural settings, from serene forests to rugged mountains, to capture the essence of each location.
Canada
Owner and Photographer, Raina+Wilson/RW Photographic Inc
Raina Kirn is a photographer and director who forms one half of a creative duo with Wilson Barry. Together, they operate under two monikers—Raina+Wilson and Barry+Kirn. This unique arrangement often piques curiosity, but they find the dynamic both enjoyable and beneficial, a sentiment shared by their clients. They function as visual collaborators, where sometimes one will photograph while the other directs and they might alternate using the camera. Regardless of who is behind the lens, they find that having two perspectives on set is highly advantageous. Kirn's dedication to her craft is evident in the seamless synergy she creates with her partner, continually pushing the boundaries of traditional photography roles. Her commitment is further exemplified by her adaptability, whether directing or shooting, ensuring that every project benefits from her full creative energy. Her willingness to share and alternate roles exemplifies a deep-seated passion for producing the finest visual content through collaborative effort.
United States
Photographer, Managing Editor and Educator, Matt Lit Photographics
Matthew Eric Lit is an international award-winning photographer and educator. He is also the managing editor of a nonprofit newspaper in the small town of Crestone, Colorado. He began his journey with photography, swiftly advancing to selling his images to the local newspaper. His college years solidified his reputation for capturing breaking news, leading him to work as a freelancer for the Phoenix Gazette and Arizona Republic, as well as Associated Press. He has been a stringer for the Rocky Mountain News and Denver Post in the 90s. Besides photojournalism, he's also a writer, editor, and designer, leading to many opportunities. He's committed to producing images for personal and client projects, and teaching photography's art and business. He teaches photography and multimedia graphic design at Isaacson School For New Media, Colorado Mountain College, and has taught photojournalism at Community College of Denver. He's currently mentoring students at Crestone Charter School in Colorado.
United Kingdom
Photographer, Sane Seven
Sane Seven, a distinguished female photographer known worldwide, undertakes assignments for a diverse clientele, including fashion icon Jimmy Choo and prominent figures such as the former Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard. Her work has gravitated towards projects addressing societal challenges, including campaigns for gender equality, combating Islamophobia, supporting LGBTQ+ rights, addressing period shaming, and highlighting environmental concerns. She is dedicated to transforming the portrayal of women in advertising to showcase a broader spectrum of ages and cultures, emphasizing unique identities and a deeper complexity of character. Her passion for photography transcends mere aesthetics, as she address and pressing social issues, demonstrating her deep commitment to societal change. Through her work, she actively seeks to redefine and enrich the portrayal of women in media, advocating for a representation that celebrates diversity and depth. Sane Seven's commitment for social commentary make a tangible impact on the world underscore her profound passion.
Bangladesh
Visual Artist and Photographer,
Pinu Rahman is a self-taught freelance photographer hailing from Dhaka, with roots in Pirojpur, a quaint rural town in Bangladesh. Multiple International award winner Pinu shoot what interests him & thats versatile. He classify himself as an amateur photographer whose passion for photography is linked to travelling. He earned his graduation from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh and discovered his passion for photography more than a decade ago. Professionally as a Senior Principal Officer, he is working in a state owned Rupali Bank PLC. His passion and profession never converged, but he has been able to exist in both parallel worlds. He could always absorb the distinction between petrichor and Starbucks, and knew where to draw the margin as to keep each special with their individual humane plea. Hence when the corporate sharpened his lenses, he already knew he had a purpose – it was to project beauty – hiding in the most trivial of urban passages and the rural mundanity – only until an artist recognized the unmistakable uniqueness in all of it. It was for him to find the extraordinary in every ‘ordinary.' Notably, one of his remarkable achievements includes a distinction that brought pride to Bangladesh, his home country's reputation in the international photography community.
The Jury Panel list will be periodically updated to ensure more opportunities for qualified photographers to participate in this amazing role.
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