Behold These Stunning Photographs

What an extraordinary week it has been! With over 400 votes—a new record—I am delighted to announce that last week’s winners are “Village Beyond the Wave” by Lotty Henry and “Lost in Nature’s Embrace” by Anastasia McCluskey, who together garnered an impressive 48% of the votes. Both talented pupils will advance to the ultimate photography showdown, set to occur before the Christmas holidays. Congratulations to both girls!

This week, we received an array of remarkable entries, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their submissions. If you have not yet been featured, fret not—there are many weeks left to showcase your work before the grand finale. Let us immerse ourselves in this week’s selections.

Whirling Wonderland by Anastasia McCluskey captures the enchanting allure of a ferris wheel at this year’s show. Utilising a low angle, McCluskey presents the ferris wheel as a commanding presence, employing the technique of filling the frame. The striking contrast between the manmade structure and the natural surroundings enhances the composition, while a low f-stop keeps every detail in sharp focus.

Unbreakable Bond by Aleeah Robinson is a stunning portrayal of a girl’s affection for her horse. The undeniable connection is reflected in the young girl’s expression, with the warm glow of the sun adding both warmth and balance to the photograph.

Golden Hour Grazers by Jack Howie employs the rule of thirds to frame two cows against a backdrop of evening light. Utilising the technique of contre-jour, Howie creates near silhouettes of the cows, with subtle highlights and gentle details that enhance the harmonious contrast of green and blue hues.

Misty Mountains by Kellie May Watson is awe-inspiring in its grandeur and scale. Watson expertly employs a narrow aperture to preserve detail, inviting the viewer into the scene, while the dense mist and fog evoke mystery, stillness, and intrigue.

Skye Kyle returns with Petals of Purity, showcasing her mastery of macro photography. She expertly balances soft focus with razor-sharp details of the petals, creating a lovely contrast and tonal harmony that makes this image truly captivating.

Also making a return is Keara Bark, this time with Indiana’s Reflection. Through the art of scale figure photography and breathtaking locations, Bark captures a mesmerising pose that appears almost ripped from the frames of Temple of Doom. With a slightly elevated angle, she conveys a sense of vulnerability as Indiana wades through treacherous waters.

Skyward Ascent by Avah McCutcheon is a minimalist marvel. The towering structure reaches skyward, with subtle greens and blues instilling a sense of calm, while the bright highlights of the sky frame the flag. A low angle further enhances the drama of the composition.

Crimson Moonrise by Kyra Lund is a striking image of the moon set against a pitch-black sky. The moon radiates magnificently, showcasing intricate details and textures.

Halo of Light by Megan Jones presents a beautifully balanced and symmetrical composition. The sun’s halo harmonises perfectly with the foreground, while the winding river serves as a leading line that guides the viewer’s eye through the image.

Golden Delight by Elanor Morrison features an elegantly centred cake. The sharp details, captured in natural light, create soft shadows and the perfect amount of bokeh, elevating this composition.

Garden Glow by Erin James is a delightful image that encapsulates the tranquillity of a private garden. The soothing blues and greens contribute to a serene atmosphere, while Erin’s lens flare provides a focal point, and the pink hues infuse vibrancy, breaking the calm.

Lastly, Luminous Pathway by Taylor Rice employs leading lines and strong triangular shapes to evoke a sense of instability, while the empty streets bestow a quiet beauty upon the composition. The mid-range f-stop softens the distant background, adding depth to the image.

Let us celebrate the artistry and creativity displayed in these incredible works!

Don’t forget to cast your vote for this week’s winner!

Photographer of the Week is open to all students, so please send your images to Ross James at [email protected]. Alternatively, visit our wider achievement page to upload your successes. If you have a photograph you’re proud of, we want to see it!