Full Breakdown
RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2025: Celebrating Young Talent in Animal Photography
12/21/2025, 9:23:09 PM
Overview of the Awards Ceremony
The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2025 culminated in a ceremony held at the Tower of London on December 18, where young photographers showcased their talents in capturing the animal kingdom. The overall winner, Thomas Durrant, a 17-year-old from London, received accolades for his stunning photograph titled "Golden stag." This year, the competition introduced a new category, "Documenting Animals," which was won by 10-year-old Jamie Smart from Wales for her compelling series on the rehabilitation of grey-headed flying foxes.
Notable Winners and Their Works
Thomas Durrant not only clinched the overall title but also triumphed in the 16-18 and Portfolio categories. His winning image was praised for its masterful use of light, with judges describing him as a "master of light." Durrant expressed his joy, stating, “Everything came together – the stag, the light, the positioning.”
Jamie Smart's achievements were remarkable for her age; she won in multiple categories, including "Small World" for her image of a Greater Water Boatman and the inaugural "Documenting Animals" category. Jamie shared her passion for wildlife photography, stating, “I love getting out there and getting immersed in nature.”
Other notable winners included:
- Maisie Hayman, 16, from Fleet, for "Hold your head high" in the Pet Portraits category.
- Satsuki Whittle, 13, from Newcastle, for "Garden goof" in Pet Personalities.
- Polly Bradbury, 16, from Lancaster, recognized in the Mobile Phones & Devices category for her photograph of a hedgehog.
Judges' Insights
The judging panel, which included professional wildlife photographers and RSPCA representatives, noted the exceptional quality of this year's entries. Andrew Forsyth, an RSPCA photographer and judge, remarked, “This year’s entries have been of an incredibly high standard... It’s been lovely to see so many creative photos of both pets and wildlife.”
Broader Implications
The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards aim to inspire young people to connect with animals and appreciate their unique personalities. Jo Rowland, RSPCA CEO, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Taking pictures of animals helps us sit up and take notice of how they live and their unique personalities... It can make us appreciate the challenges that wildlife face.”
Upcoming Opportunities
The next RSPCA Young Photographer Awards will open for entries on May 5, 2026. This annual competition continues to encourage youth engagement with wildlife and photography, fostering a new generation of animal advocates.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Overall Winner and 16-18 winner – Thomas Durrant, age 17, from London – ‘Golden stag’ From RSPCA Young Photographer Awards: Thomas said of his winning entry: “This image is one I have been searching for, for some time.” — Thomas Durrant, Overall Winner
- “Judge Ellie Rothnie said: “Jamie really is such an incredible talent, and it’s even more remarkable given just how young she is – many adults can only dream of capturing images like hers.” — Ellie Rothnie, Judge
- “Thousands of people have entered, so to even make the shortlist is testament to their skill, dedication and patience.” — Radzi Chinyanganya, Host
The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards not only celebrate artistic talent but also promote awareness and appreciation for the animal kingdom, making it a significant event in the realm of youth photography.
