News

Image of the Year Results

16-May-2025 Competitions

Stroud Camera Club brought its season to a close with the most anticipated event of the year: the Image of the Year competition. This annual showcase celebrates the standout work of members either with new work or from across the season, bringing together a wide range of styles, subjects, and technical approaches. The evening was judged by respected Cheltenham photographer Aleks Gjika DPAGB, EFIAP, whose insightful and constructive comments added real value to the event.

Both the print and digital projected sections featured a consistently high standard of work. Aleks praised the overall quality, noting the variety, imagination, and craftsmanship on display. From evocative landscapes to intimate portraits and crisp wildlife captures, the breadth of genres was a testament to the club’s growing strength and diversity.

The digital images were projected using Pixoroo, Aleks’ own bespoke judging system. The platform—refined over the last 18 months—enabled a smooth and flexible judging process, allowing him to hold back images for further review and make considered, thoughtful choices. In the print section, he also commended the care taken in presentation, noting the precision in mounting and the attention to detail in printing and colour balance.

Print Awards

1st Place
The Green Dress and the Red Apple – Jeff Wilson
A distinctive and polished portrait that drew immediate attention.

2nd Place
Diced Carrot-2 – Roger Matthews
A playful and creative image that impressed with its originality.

3rd Place
Connections – Trish Bloodworth EFIAP, BPE1
A thoughtful and intimate composition that resonated strongly.

Highly Commended
Kingfisher Spray – Jesse Cason AFIAP
Flamingo – Mark Halling

Commended
Occulus fast & slow – Mick West
Tiger Longwing Feeding – Malcolm Marner
Poppies – Leslie Holmes

Digital Projected Awards

Aleks held back seventeen images for closer review before selecting his final ten—a reflection of the strength of the entries.

1st Place
Stage Security – Annie Blick
An arresting portrait that stood out for its mood and storytelling.

2nd Place
Reach for the Clouds – Trish Bloodworth EFIAP, BPE1
A beautifully balanced architectural image with atmosphere and scale.

3rd Place
Ups and Down – Leslie Holmes
A superb, well-timed nature shot full of energy and action.

Highly Commended
Buff Tailed Coronet Feeding from Abutilon – Jesse Cason AFIAP
Rugged – Francis Mridha
The Lookout – Richard Atkinson

Commended
Kingfisher Territory Dispute – Richard Atkinson
Lighthouse Moonscape – Annie Blick
Rainy Fox – Mark Halling
The Blue Dress – Jeff Wilson

Congratulations to all the award winners for their outstanding work. The club also extends sincere thanks to Aleks Gjika for his time, thoughtful judging, and generous feedback. His comments throughout the evening were both encouraging and insightful, helping members reflect on their work and inspiring them to keep pushing forward. It was a fitting end to a season full of creativity, development, and photographic achievement.