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World's leading phototographers honoured at annual portrait photography awards ceremony
General news
15 March 2010 16:04
Some of the most exciting portrait photographers from around the world gathered in central London on 2nd March 2010 at the annual Venture Photographic Awards celebrating the best work from 250 Venture photographers from 63 studios across the UK, America, and the Far East. This year the event coincided with Venture's 10th Anniversary.
Rick Reeder, a 28 year-old photographer from Sheffield, was the star of the evening, scooping three awards including the prized 'Photographer of the Year'. He was also honoured for his portraits in the 'Babies' and 'Young Children' categories, for his exciting work capturing these two challenging genres. "It means the world to me to win these awards in what is a very competitive industry," said Reeder, who was presented with the coveted award and a cheque for £2,500, at the prestigious Louise Blouin Gallery in West London.
Venture, founded in 2000, is now the biggest portrait photography company in the UK, with over 60,000 customers a year spending an average of £800 each. It has revolutionised the world of portrait photography by replacing the tired, staid offering of traditional studio shoots with high octane "experiences" which capture a moment in time and result in a work of art.
A further eight awards were presented at the Venture Photographic Awards last night, including 'Weddings' - a new category for 2010 - which was presented to Tonie Sowerby, a photographer from the Doncaster studio, for her unique portrayal of Emma and Gurbhej Singh in their traditional Indian wedding dress. Sowerby was also presented with the award for 'Couples'.
Vicky King, a photographer who also works in the Doncaster studio, was presented with the award for 'Families and Babies' for her unique portrayal of Adam Lofthouse with his niece.
The Award for 'Families with older children' was presented to John Burrell, photographer from the Peterborough studio, for capturing the Hawkes family and their passion for walking. The award for 'toddlers' was presented to Claire Hillard, photographer from the Nottingham studio for capturing Mylo Dakin's cheeky character.
The 'pet' category was won by Kat Bradley from the Northampton studio for her use of high technical content in capturing Winston, a Jackadoodle puppy.
Richard Mayfield, Venture's Photography Director, said:
"To celebrate our 10th anniversary we are delighted that Rick has been awarded Photographer of the Year. The judging panel thought all the winners' work was exceptionally creative and demonstrated great skill in the art of personal photography."