Results of the July Competition ‘Texture’
July Competition: Texture
On Friday 7 August, a little later than usual, we gathered to judge the July round of our monthly photography competition.
This month we changed the original theme from ‘Moon’ to ‘Texture’, giving members much greater freedom in their choice of subject. Throughout the month, however, the challenge had been about more than simply finding something with an interesting surface. We had been looking at how lighting, viewpoint and composition can be used to reveal and emphasise texture, and how these elements can turn even an everyday subject into an interesting photograph.
The result was a fascinating range of interpretations from all 14 entrants, and a very high standard of creative photography.
First Place – 9pts – ‘Shell’ by Julie Smith
Julie Smith took first place with her beautifully observed photograph of a shell. Julie creatively placed the shell on black Perspex, using the reflective surface to produce a striking symmetrical composition. Careful lighting revealed the fine ridges, patterns and textures of the shell against the dark background.
Second Place – 7pts – ‘Untitled by Pam McIntosh
New member Pam McIntosh made an impressive debut in our monthly competition, taking second place with her first entry in the series.
Her dockside photograph offered a very different interpretation of texture, bringing together ropes, weathered surfaces and maritime details to create a strong composition.
Third Place – 5pts – ‘Weathered Notes’ by David Smith
David Smith just edged ahead of several other strong entries to take third place with his black-and-white street photograph. The textures of clothing, paving and the surrounding urban environment combine to create an image full of detail and character.
The other entries – all receive 3 Points
Photographer of the Year 2026
The July results have changed the positions in our 2026 Photographer of the Year competition.
Julie has extended her lead and now sits firmly at the top of the table with 45 points. Mick remains in second place with 31 points, while David’s third-place result takes him to 26 points, giving him a two-point advantage over Stewart and Noel, who are tied on 24 points.
With five competitions still to come, there is plenty of opportunity for those positions to change before the end of the year, with everyone in a position to make it into the top positions.
Next Month — Landscapes and Natural History
Our next monthly competition gives members another broad choice of subject with the theme ‘Landscapes and Natural History’.
Members can submit an image exploring either landscape or the natural world, giving plenty of scope for different approaches and styles of photography.
Judging will take place on Friday 28 August.
