As a family and wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate to capture countless meaningful moments through my lens. But yesterday, I found myself on the other side of the camera: invited to the prestigious Amateur Photographer Magazine Awards Dinner as a guest.

This event, hosted annually by Amateur Photographer Magazine, celebrates the best talents in photography, from industry veterans to rising stars. For me, it was an opportunity to immerse myself in the world of photography at its highest level. Having been published by Amateur Photographer Magazine back in 2023, this night felt like a full-circle moment and reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.

Walking into a Room Full of Photography Heroes

As soon as I stepped into the iconic Shakespeare Globe London, the decor and energy in the room made me whisper “Wow” under my breath. The space was filled with some of the most talented photographers, editors, and creatives in the industry. As I made my way through the crowd, I found myself side by side with photographers whose work I had admired for years. It was lovely to see old friends and get to hang with my UKBFTOG sisters.

From portrait artists to photojournalist, from wildlife activists to fine art visionaries. Each person in that room had a role to play in all of the unique stories being told through images. As the night unfolded, I was reminded just how powerful photography can be in shaping perspectives and emotions.

Celebrating the Winners: A Showcase of Passion and Dedication

The awards ceremony itself was nothing short of amazing. As each category was announced, the winning images were displayed on the big screen. Every single one telling a story that words alone could never fully capture and often greeted with applause and gasps.

From striking landscapes that transported us to remote corners of the world to emotive portraits that revealed raw human connection, each winner showcased a level of artistry that was nothing short of inspiring. Some of the stories behind the images were so deeply personal. A stand out for me was, Samara Abu Elouf, who has risked her life to document the war in her home of Gaza, Palestine. Her graphic yet moving images and story brought me to tears.

Hearing these stories reminded me why I love what I do. Photography isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about documenting moments, preserving memories, and telling stories that resonate beyond the frame.

Reflecting on My Own Journey: From Publication to Inspiration

In 2023, I had the honor of having my work published in Amateur Photographer Magazine—a milestone that meant the world to me as a photographer. Seeing my images in print, in a publication that has long been a beacon for photography enthusiasts, was a moment of validation for the years, passion and dedication I’ve poured into my craft.

Being at the AP Awards in 2025 felt like an evolution of that journey. It reminded me that while milestones like publication are incredible, the real magic lies in continuous growth. Watching the winners take the stage and hearing their creative journeys reignited a fire in me—to push my boundaries, to experiment and to tell even more compelling stories with my camera.

Key Takeaways from the Evening

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the awards, I walked away with a renewed perspective on my work and the industry. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the night:

1. Storytelling is Everything

Every award-winning image had one thing in common: a compelling story – the power of storytelling was undeniable. As photographers, it’s not just about composing a beautiful shot—it’s about capturing meaning and emotion.

2. Growth Comes from Pushing Boundaries

Many of the award-winning photographers spoke about stepping out of their comfort zones to capture something extraordinary. This resonated deeply with me – Growth in photography (and in life) happens when we experiment, take risks, and challenge ourselves.

Looking Ahead: Inspired to Create

As I sit and type today, I still feel an overwhelming sense of motivation. Seeing so much talent in one room reinforced my desire to push my own creative limits. Whether it’s through experimenting with new techniques, telling deeper stories through my portraits, or simply finding inspiration in everyday moments – I left with the desire to continue evolving as a photographer.

Inspiration is everywhere, and sometimes, all it takes is one night surrounded by fellow creatives to reignite your passion.

You can also read about my experience with AP at Nottinghill Carnival back in 2022:)