Entry Fee: €7.50 per image
Free Entries: One free entry per category
Entry Limits: Up to 6 entries per category per round
The IPPVA Photography Awards are judged entirely online. Judges score entries via a dedicated platform according to a universal scoring system.
Judges evaluate entries based on three key areas:
All awarded images (Bronze, Silver, Gold) will receive:
Dee O’Keeffe
Michael McLoughlin
Portrait Categories: Ceire Rhein
Commercial Categories: Ailbe Collins
Video Categories: Gavin Gallagher
Creative Categories: Michael McLoughlin
Wedding Categories: Natalie Maher
Uncommissioned work must be entered into the Creative & Fine Art category, unless it fits clearly within specific categories that permit uncommissioned work (e.g. Landscape &Nature & Wildlife, Reportage and Pets).
Entrants should make every effort to enter their images into the most appropriate category.
The competition administrator or judging coordinators reserve the right to:
11.1. Commercial Portrait, Fashion and Corporate Photography
11.2. Commercial Product and Food & Beverage Photography
11.3. Commercial Architectural & Interiors/Exteriors Photography
11.4. Creative & Fine Art
11.5. Wildlife Photography
11.6. Landscape and Nature Photography
11.7. Reportage & Photojournalism Photography
11.8. Family Portraits
11.9. Portraits (excluding family, newborns, pets, animals, commercial)
11.10. Classical Newborn Portraits
11.11. Contemporary Newborn Portraits
11.12. Maternity Portraits
11.13. Pets & Domesticated Animals
11.14. Wedding – Classical
11.15. Wedding – Contemporary
11.16. Wedding – Creative / Avant-Garde
11.18. Wedding – AP (open to Videographers & second shooters of a wedding) and styled Photoshoots that are not an actual wedding day, but workshop images are not permitted)
11.19. Wedding – Documentary
This category will contribute towards the Commercial Photographer of the Year award but will not have its own individual winner.
This category recognises outstanding photography in Commercial Portrait, Fashion, and Corporate Photography, showcasing commissioned works created for commercial purposes. Submissions may include headshots, environmental portraits, fashion, beauty, and corporate imagery. These photographs are intended to represent individuals or groups in a way that aligns with a brand’s identity, supports professional goals, or communicates a specific message. The purpose of these images is often promotional or branding-focused, with an emphasis on professionalism and visual impact.
Client Alignment
The photograph must clearly reflect the client’s branding, promotional objectives, or professional identity. Judges will assess how effectively the image serves its intended commercial purpose.
Technical Excellence
Entries should demonstrate strong control over exposure, sharpness, focus, and colour accuracy. Attention to detail and precision in execution are essential.
Creative Techniques
Lighting, composition, and styling should align with the subject and the client’s objectives. Creative approaches that enhance the image’s impact—without compromising its professional intent—will be highly valued.
Visual Impact
The image should present a polished, professional appearance that captures attention and clearly conveys the intended message.
Post-processing techniques such as stitching, focus stacking, and multi-exposures are permitted—so long as they enhance the final image and maintain its professional tone.
This category will contribute towards the Commercial Photographer of the Year award but will not have its own individual winner.
This category recognises outstanding Commercial Product and Food & Beverage Photography, showcasing commissioned works created for advertising, branding, or promotional purposes. Submissions may include product photography, food and beverage imagery, still life compositions, beauty campaigns, and fashion photography, all with a focus on visually highlighting products and concepts. These images are designed to captivate audiences, convey brand messages, and elevate the subject’s appeal through thoughtful styling and technical excellence.
Brand & Product Focus
The image must clearly emphasise the product or concept in a way that aligns with branding or promotional goals. Strong composition should direct the viewer’s attention while enhancing the product’s appeal.
Lighting and Styling
Lighting should bring out textures, details, and the overall look of the subject. Styling must complement the product’s narrative and purpose. The relationship between light and design should result in an engaging visual.
Technical Excellence
The image should display strong control of exposure, focus, colour accuracy, and sharpness. Creative editing and advanced techniques should elevate the image while keeping the product front and centre.
Visual Impact
The final image should leave a lasting impression, combining beauty with precision to communicate the brand’s message or the product’s story effectively.
Advanced techniques like focus stacking, stitching, and multi-exposures are allowed—so long as they support clarity and visual impact without distracting from the subject.
This category recognises outstanding photography of the built environment, both inside and out. It celebrates the artistry and technical skills required to document and interpret architectural designs, interiors, and exterior spaces. The aim is to reflect the designer’s vision while showcasing spatial elements, light and shadow interplay, and the textures that define a space or structure.
Architectural Vision
The image should communicate the architect’s or designer’s intent, highlighting key structural elements such as form, function, and aesthetic. Composition should enhance how the viewer understands the design.
Use of Light and Shadow
Lighting must be skillfully captured to reveal depth, dimension, and texture. Both natural and artificial light may be used to complement the mood and atmosphere.
Surface Textures and Materials
Images should pay close attention to the materials and finishes of architectural features, accurately showcasing their quality and uniqueness.
Technical Precision
Focus, exposure, colour accuracy, and clean post-processing are essential. A polished, professional result is key.
Creative Perspective
While accuracy matters, judges also value unique or artistic perspectives that offer a new way to see the architecture—be it through angles, reflections, or framing.
Authenticity
Images must remain true to the space. Over-editing or altering the original architecture is discouraged.
This category celebrates the connection between architectural design and photography, challenging entrants to inspire, inform, and translate vision into visual excellence.
The Creative & Fine Art category is for photographers who use photography as a medium for artistic expression, blending innovation, concept, and craftsmanship. Open to both commissioned and non-commissioned work, this category invites experimental, interpretive, and conceptual approaches that go beyond traditional genres.
Submissions may include alternative photographic processes (e.g., cyanotypes, tintypes, wet plate collodion), mixed media, creative digital techniques, or any process—traditional or modern—that supports the artist’s vision. Whether created in studio or on location, these works should reflect originality, intention, and a commitment to photography as an expressive art form.
This category celebrates creative risk-taking, visual storytelling, and the integration of historical and digital methods to produce striking, boundary-pushing images.
Judging Criteria
Important Notes for Entrants
Ethics and Safety
All entries must reflect ethical practice. The safety, dignity, and well-being of subjects must be respected. Proof of safe practice may be requested.
This category is an open space for those who want to express freely, take creative risks, and craft something visually and emotionally powerful. It’s all about pushing boundaries, embracing beauty, and creating with intent.
Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Work
This category accepts both personal and client work, including commissioned fine art studio portraits of individuals over 16. However, standard family portraits or conventional commissioned work should be entered into the appropriate category.
Eligible Subjects
This category is ideal for fine art, symbolic, or conceptual portraits, experimental still life, and heirloom-style family work with a strong creative narrative.
Permitted
Non-commissioned creative family imagery with artistic and emotive intent
Commissioned fine art portraits of individuals or groups (not standard family sessions)
creative images that do not belong to the other categories.
Non-commissioned commercial work presented as fine art
Not Permitted
Commissioned family portraits
Wedding imagery
commissioned commercial photography
Wildlife, landscapes, pets, animals, or nature photography
Workshop images, apart from you were giving the workshop, you planned the process the set-up the shot.
Creative Freedom
All creative techniques are encouraged—including post-processing, mixed media, and digital manipulation—provided they enhance the final vision.
Original Content
The majority of the image must be created by the photographer. Stock elements and AI-generated visuals are only allowed in a supporting role.
The Wildlife Photography category recognises images that capture the beauty, behaviour, and habitats of animals, birds, insects, fungi, and marine life in their natural surroundings. It champions authenticity, ethical practices, and the ability to portray the subject’s relationship with its environment through artistic and technical mastery.
Natural Behaviour
The image should capture the subject in a natural, undisturbed state, with a strong sense of its surroundings and story.
Ethical Capture
No harm, stress, or disruption should be caused to the subject or its habitat. The welfare of wildlife is paramount.
Technical Precision
The photograph must show excellent sharpness, exposure, and composition—enhancing the subject without distraction.
Minor edits like colour correction, noise reduction, or sharpening are allowed, but the authenticity of the subject and its setting must remain intact.
This category celebrates photography that showcases the natural and built environments. Entries may include landscapes, seascapes, cityscapes, aerial and astrophotography, as well as close-up views of plants, trees, and natural textures. From wide-open vistas to fine details, the focus is on authentic, visually engaging work.
Composition and Emotion
Photos should display strong composition and lighting, drawing the viewer in and evoking a genuine emotional or aesthetic response.
Authenticity
Scenes should remain realistic, avoiding heavy digital manipulation. The true beauty of nature must shine through.
Diversity of Subjects
From grand vistas to intricate plant life, judges will welcome unique and varied subject matter that stands out.
Technical Excellence
The image must be sharp, well-exposed, and colour-balanced. Attention to the environment’s detail is essential.
Edits such as colour adjustment, sharpening, and exposure correction are encouraged—so long as they don’t overpower the natural integrity of the scene.
Flexible Edits
Techniques like stitching, focus stacking, and multi-exposures are allowed if they support the story or quality of the image.
This category celebrates photography that documents real moments as they happen. Whether it’s a public event, personal scene, or human interest story, the focus is on capturing life authentically. Subjects may include sports, travel, street photography, or news-related events, day in life shoots.
Truthful Capture
The image must show a genuine moment with no interference or staging by the photographer.
Single-Capture Rule
Only single-exposure images are allowed. Composites or multi-image blends are not permitted. Original RAW or source files must be available if requested.
Narrative and Impact
Photos should tell a strong story or elicit an emotional response, with clear relevance or meaning.
Technical Skill
While editing is minimal, the photographer must demonstrate competence in composition, focus, and exposure.
Uninfluenced Scenes
The photographer must not have any personal connection to the subject or scene. This ensures impartial, documentary-style capture.
This category celebrates the storyteller’s eye—documenting powerful, real-life scenes with honesty and technical mastery.
Category Description
This category celebrates the artistry and emotional depth of Family Portraiture, offering space for creative, timeless, and heartfelt images of families in all their forms. From single portraits of young children up to 12 years old, sibling shots to full family groupings, this category welcomes portraits captured in studio, outdoors, or on location, using a variety of approaches and styles.
Whether posed or gently candid, traditional or modern, these portraits should showcase the relationships, personalities, and bonds within families. The aim is to create images that are meaningful, polished, and crafted with care—pieces that resonate emotionally and hold lasting value.
Judging Criteria
Connection & Presence
Whether posed, documentary, or emotive in style, portraits should convey a genuine sense of connection, warmth, and character. The image should capture the essence of the family or child, reflecting real emotion, relationship, or presence. Judges will look for authenticity—whether expressed through subtle gestures, eye contact, or storytelling moments that draw the viewer in. But Traditionally / Classical posed family photos are welcome in the is category as well.
Composition & Style
All styles are welcome—posed, relaxed, or documentary—so long as the composition feels intentional and visually coherent. Thoughtful arrangement, use of space, and flow within the frame should support the emotional tone and purpose of the portrait. The image should feel balanced and considered, regardless of how structured or spontaneous the moment may be.
Background
Lighting
Technical Precision
Images should demonstrate solid technical execution, including sharp focus (where appropriate), clean exposure, professional colour work, and careful attention to detail. While creativity is encouraged, control over the technical elements must be evident.
Visual Presentation
The final image should feel cohesive, polished, and thoughtfully crafted. Regardless of style, it should leave a lasting impression—visually refined and emotionally resonant, with an aesthetic that enhances the portrait’s meaning and artistic value.
Prohibited Elements
AI-generated features, stock elements, third-party skies or digital backgrounds are not allowed. All visual elements must be captured and created by the photographer.
Post-Processing
Post-production is permitted and encouraged to enhance the image’s impact. Retouching, colour grading, and stylistic adjustments are welcome as long as they remain cohesive and serve the portrait’s emotional and visual intent.
Important Notes for Entrants
Category Rules
Commissioned Work Only
Only commissioned portraits are permitted in this category. All entries must be created as part of a professional client session. Personal or non-commissioned work is not eligible and should be entered into the appropriate category (e.g. Creative & Fine Art or Open).
Eligible Subjects
This category is for individual over 12 years old, couple, or group portraits excluding family-related imagery. Suitable subjects may include client-commissioned portraits of teens, adults, engagement, friends, performers, creatives, or professional individuals (excluding commercial headshots). The focus should be on the person or people portrayed, with a clear sense of style, presence, and intent.
Studio & On-Location Work
Portraits may be captured in a studio environment or on location. Both natural and controlled lighting setups are welcome, as long as the overall presentation is intentional and professional.
Not Permitted
Styling & Concept
Styling, posing, and visual tone should suit the subject and the context of the session. While creative expression is encouraged, the portrait must retain a sense of realism and connection with the subject.
Original Content
All elements of the image must originate from the photographer’s own capture. AI-generated content, stock elements, or third-party digital additions (e.g. skies, backgrounds) are not allowed.
Creative Consideration
Innovative use of lighting, styling, or post-processing is welcomed, as long as it serves the concept and enhances the subject. The portrait should reflect both technical skill and a thoughtful visual approach.
Subjects
Subjects must not be related to the photographer. Submissions featuring clients only.
Skill Requirements
Strong execution is expected across focus, exposure, composition, styling, and post-production. The final image should reflect professional quality and a clear artistic or stylistic direction.
Safety First
The safety, comfort, and dignity of all subjects must be prioritised throughout the creative process. Entrants must adhere to best practices in posing and handling. Proof of safe working practice may be requested where necessary.
This category celebrates the timeless art of Traditional Newborn Portraiture. These portraits are typically posed, styled, and carefully directed to create elegant, polished images of newborns, siblings, or families with a newborn baby. Whether photographed in a studio or on location, the focus is on classic composition, styling, and lighting. The newborn may be wrapped, clothed, or posed in a range of timeless setups. These portraits are often created as commissioned keepsakes, designed with care to become treasured family heirlooms.
Note: Only images featuring newborns up to six weeks after their due date are eligible. Newborn safety must be prioritised in all aspects of capture and editing.
Connection & Presence
Whether the focus is solely on the newborn or includes family members, the image should reflect a gentle connection—either through touch, gaze, or pose. Expressions should feel calm, peaceful, and considered.
Classic Composition
Judges will look for strong posing, symmetry, and structure. The image should feel balanced and thoughtfully arranged, with clear intention in the use of space, angles, and subject positioning.
Background
Lighting
Technical Precision
Images must demonstrate professional control of focus, sharpness, exposure, and colour. Skin tones should be natural, and post-processing should enhance the softness of the newborn without over-smoothing or introducing unrealistic effects.
Visual Presentation
The overall image should feel refined, complete, and emotionally resonant. The portrait should carry a sense of timelessness, with careful attention to finishing and detail.
Retouching and editing are encouraged to refine skin tones and overall presentation, but must not distort the natural appearance of the baby. Composite images are allowed for safety purposes but must be declared if requested.
This category celebrates natural, emotionally expressive newborn portraiture that focuses on genuine connection and storytelling. Often minimally posed—or unposed entirely—these portraits reflect the tenderness, intimacy, and fleeting moments of life with a newborn. Whether captured in a studio or on location, the emphasis is on emotional authenticity and the delicate bond between the newborn and their family. Lighting is typically soft and natural, with thoughtful composition supporting the emotional tone of the image.
Note: Only images featuring newborns up to six weeks after their due date are eligible. Newborn safety must be prioritised in all aspects of capture and editing.
Emotional Connection & Presence
The image should express a real, heartfelt bond between the newborn and their parents, siblings, or environment. Whether a quiet moment, a touch, a glance, or simply the baby’s peaceful presence, emotion must be central.
Intentional Composition
While more relaxed than traditional posing, composition should still be considered and effective. Judges will look for creative framing, leading lines, and visual flow that support the emotional narrative.
Background
Lighting
Technical Precision
Even in a relaxed or candid moment, the image must display technical skill. Focus, exposure, and colour balance should be carefully handled to elevate the emotional content without compromising quality.
Visual Presentation
The final portrait should feel sincere, heartfelt, and cohesive. Editing should preserve the realism and natural textures of the newborn and family, while supporting the story being told.
Subtle enhancements to tone, contrast, and colour are encouraged to support the mood of the portrait. Heavy skin retouching or over-stylised edits are discouraged in this category. Composite work for safety reasons is allowed where appropriate.
This category celebrates the beauty, strength, and anticipation of pregnancy through both traditional and emotive maternity portraiture. Whether taken in a studio or on location, maternity portraits may feature the expectant mother alone or with her partner, children, or family. Entries in this category may be posed and styled or natural and connection-led, depending on the photographer’s chosen approach. The aim is to honour this significant stage in a family’s journey through strong composition, emotive presence, and skilled execution.
Connection & Presence
Whether posed or candid, the image should convey a sense of connection—either between the subject(s), or between the viewer and the subject. Judges will look for expressions, posture, or interaction that reflect the emotional depth of this stage in life.
Composition & Posing
The image should demonstrate intentional composition, whether traditional or relaxed. Posing may be structured or natural, but should flatter the subject and enhance the overall tone of the portrait. Judges will consider the thoughtful use of space, shapes, and positioning.
Background
Lighting
Technical Precision
Entries should demonstrate strong control of focus, exposure, and colour accuracy. Skin tones should appear natural, and the overall finish should reflect high-quality editing and presentation.
Visual Presentation
The final image should feel polished, emotionally engaging, and professionally composed. Whether the style is emotive or traditional, the portrait should honour the story being told and leave a lasting impression.
Post-processing is encouraged to refine tone, colour, and texture, provided it enhances the image without compromising authenticity or over-stylising the subject. Both retouching and artistic enhancement are permitted if used with purpose.
This category celebrates the charm, personality, and beauty of pets and domesticated animals through thoughtful and creative portraiture. Whether captured in studio or on location, these portraits should reflect the unique character of the animal and the connection they share with the world around them. From playful puppies and regal cats to horses, rabbits, or more unusual companions, this category welcomes a wide range of subjects photographed with care, artistry, and technical skill. If an image fetures an animal the images, needs to be submitted here.
Expression and Personality
The image should highlight the animal’s unique traits—whether playful, proud, calm, curious, or mischievous. Judges will look for portraits that go beyond simple documentation and show a real sense of character.
Connection and Mood
If humans are included in the frame, their connection with the animal should feel authentic and emotionally engaging. The image should tell a story, evoke a feeling, or reveal a bond.
Lighting
Whether natural or studio-based, lighting should enhance the subject and complement the mood of the image. The animal’s features should be clearly visible and well-lit, while still supporting the overall tone.
Composition
Images should be well-composed and balanced, drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject. Consideration should be given to framing, background, and perspective.
Technical Precision
Photographs must demonstrate control over focus, exposure, colour accuracy, and sharpness. Judges will expect a clean, polished final result, even when photographing fast-moving or unpredictable subjects.
Visual Impact
The strongest images will leave a lasting impression—through emotional connection, storytelling, humour, or sheer beauty.
Post-processing is allowed and encouraged where it enhances the image’s clarity, tone, or mood. However, edits should never distort the natural appearance of the animal or scene.
This category celebrates the timeless art of Classical Wedding Photography, a traditional style that focuses on elegance, formal composition, and refined storytelling. It emphasises posed portraits of the couple, their families, and key moments throughout the wedding day. The overall tone is polished and graceful, with careful attention given to lighting, composition, and the emotional atmosphere. These images are created to stand the test of time, offering visual memories that remain meaningful across generations.
Timelessness and Elegance
The image should evoke a classic and sophisticated mood—free from trends or gimmicks. It should reflect the kind of portraiture that remains visually appealing for years to come.
Formal Posing
Poses should be deliberate, elegant, and flattering. Whether it’s the couple, bridal party, or family members, the posing should carry a sense of poise and grace, enhancing the overall refinement of the image.
Lighting Quality
Lighting must enhance the subject and contribute to a soft, flattering aesthetic. Whether natural or artificial, the light should support the elegance of the image and add depth and dimension.
Composition
Images should be well-balanced, thoughtfully framed, and visually harmonious. Strong use of symmetry, structure, and perspective will be highly valued.
Emotional Connection
Although posed, the image should still convey genuine connection and feeling. Subtle expressions of love, joy, or calm should come through, bringing life to the classical formality.
Attention to Detail
Everything within the frame—attire, accessories, background elements, and posture—should support the elegance and polish of the final image. Distracting elements should be avoided or carefully managed.
Technical Excellence
Submissions should demonstrate control over focus, sharpness, exposure, and colour balance. Post-processing should enhance the final image without compromising natural tones or detail.
Retouching and editing are allowed and encouraged, provided the final result retains a natural look and supports the timeless elegance of the image. Over-processing or stylistic effects that move away from a classic aesthetic should be avoided.
This category recognises Contemporary Wedding Photography, a modern approach that blends storytelling, candid moments, and natural interaction. While it may include lightly posed portraits, the focus is on capturing the atmosphere, connection, and genuine emotions of the wedding day. This style often reflects a documentary influence—prioritising real moments, natural light, and personal details—while still showcasing the photographer’s creative vision. Contemporary wedding images should feel fresh, authentic, and emotionally engaging.
Authenticity and Storytelling
The image should capture a real moment or connection, whether between the couple, guests, or surroundings. Judges will look for images that reflect the mood, story, or rhythm of the wedding day.
Natural Posing and Interaction
If posing is used, it should feel unforced and relaxed. The connection between subjects should appear natural, spontaneous, and emotionally genuine.
Use of Light
Lighting may be natural, ambient, or lightly enhanced. Judges will value thoughtful use of light to support the scene’s tone—whether soft and romantic, moody and dramatic, or clean and bright.
Composition and Perspective
The framing should be considered and intentional. Creative use of angles, negative space, and environmental elements is welcome, so long as it supports the story being told.
Emotional Connection
Images should convey genuine emotion—joy, intimacy, reflection, or humour. The viewer should feel connected to the moment or atmosphere being captured.
Technical Execution
Focus, exposure, colour, and post-processing must be handled with care. While creativity is encouraged, the image must still show professional control and polish.
Post-processing is welcome, provided it enhances the mood and authenticity of the image. Stylised editing is acceptable if it suits the tone of the wedding and doesn’t compromise the emotional impact or natural feel.
Creative or avant-garde wedding photography embraces innovation, originality, and artistic expression. This category allows photographers to push beyond the boundaries of traditional portraiture and documentary coverage. Entries are not required to follow classical posing or the conventions of candid storytelling. Instead, this category celebrates bold ideas, unconventional compositions, and experimental techniques that result in imaginative, visually impactful wedding imagery.
This is the space for creative freedom—images that stand apart, challenge expectations, and showcase the photographer’s unique artistic voice.
Creativity and Originality
The image should demonstrate a distinctive and imaginative approach, highlighting the photographer’s ability to think outside the box and offer a fresh, innovative perspective on wedding photography.
Impact
Winning entries should evoke a strong response from the viewer—whether through visual power, emotional intensity, or unexpected and thought-provoking subject matter.
Technical Skill
Despite the experimental nature of the category, images must still show control over technical elements such as focus, exposure, lighting, and post-processing. The creative concept should be supported—not undermined—by the photographer’s technical ability.
Breaking Conventions
Entrants are encouraged to challenge traditional norms. This could include casual or abstract interactions, unconventional framing, intentional motion blur, mixed media, or creative editing styles that push the photographic form, exciting use of flash.
Composition and Cropping
Judges will look for artistic use of angles, shapes, layering, and cropping techniques that enhance the visual narrative and reflect the photographer’s understanding of contemporary creative techniques.
Post-Processing Style
Editing should enhance the overall vision of the image. Stylisation, colour grading, and retouching are all permitted, provided they remain cohesive with the image’s concept and don’t overpower the content.
Understanding of the Genre
The image should reflect a solid grasp of modern creative photography. Techniques and visual choices should feel intentional and aligned with the avant-garde approach.
Creative editing is welcomed and encouraged. Entrants are free to explore bold editing styles, so long as the final image is cohesive and enhances the artistic intention. Over-processing should be avoided unless it directly supports the creative vision.
This category recognises outstanding individual portraits of the bride or groom, captured as part of the wedding day or the surrounding wedding celebration. These portraits may be traditional or contemporary in style, posed or naturally captured, and may be photographed in a studio or on location—so long as they form part of the commissioned wedding coverage. The aim is to create a timeless, elegant, or emotionally engaging portrait that highlights the personality, presence, and significance of the individual on their wedding day.
Connection and Presence
The portrait should reflect the character and emotional presence of the subject. Judges will look for a sense of authenticity—whether through expression, gesture, or atmosphere.
Styling and Posing
Styling may be formal, relaxed, or editorial in tone. Posing should feel intentional and appropriate to the subject, whether traditional or creatively approached.
Lighting Quality
Lighting should complement the mood and styling of the portrait. Whether natural or artificial, it should flatter the subject and enhance the image’s emotional or visual impact.
Composition
The image should be well-framed, balanced, and visually cohesive. Judges will value creative framing as well as classical composition, depending on the tone of the portrait.
Technical Excellence
Sharpness, exposure, focus, and colour grading must be executed with precision. The final image should feel polished and professional.
Emotional or Visual Impact
The strongest portraits will create a lasting impression—through emotion, beauty, strength, or storytelling. Judges will consider both the artistic and emotional power of the image.
Editing and retouching are welcome, provided they enhance the image while preserving a natural and cohesive finish. Stylised editing is acceptable if it aligns with the overall concept.
The Wedding – Open Creative category celebrates imaginative, stylised, and visually impactful wedding photography—allowing space for all styles of commissioned work, including documentary, classical, contemporary, and creative approaches. This category is open to photographers working in any style, provided the image is part of a commissioned session captured on the wedding day or created for a wedding supplier or venue.
Whether the image is emotion-led, fashion-forward, story-driven, or editorial in tone, the emphasis is on creative expression, strong visual execution, and originality. This is the category for work that doesn’t sit neatly into traditional wedding categories, offering full flexibility in style, approach, and artistic vision.
Creative Vision and Style
The image should reflect a clear and confident artistic voice. Judges will look for originality, creativity, and a distinctive take on wedding photography—no matter the chosen style.
Execution and Direction
Whether posed or candid, stylised or spontaneous, the image should demonstrate strong control of composition, moment, and storytelling. Direction (if applicable) should feel purposeful and refined.
Storytelling or Impact
The image should evoke emotion, atmosphere, or intrigue. Whether documentary or editorial in nature, it must connect with the viewer and reflect the creative intent behind its creation.
Technical Control
All entries must show professional handling of exposure, focus, composition, and editing. Creative processing is welcome, but it must enhance rather than overwhelm the photograph.
Visual Impact
The image should leave a lasting impression—through beauty, emotion, mood, or creative storytelling.
There are no limitations on post-processing, provided it supports the image’s style and concept. Artistic editing, compositing, and bold grading are all permitted if handled with purpose.
The Wedding – Documentary category celebrates honest, unposed storytelling. This style of photography captures genuine moments, emotions, and interactions as they naturally unfold throughout the wedding day. It prioritises authenticity over perfection, embracing spontaneity, movement, and mood to create a visual narrative of the couple’s celebration.
Documentary wedding photography is rooted in real-time observation—without intervention, direction, or manipulation by the photographer. The aim is to preserve the truth of the day with clarity, emotion, and artistry.
Authenticity
The image must depict a real, unscripted moment captured naturally. Judges will look for photographs that reflect genuine emotion, context, and spontaneity.
Storytelling and Timing
Entries should show strong storytelling—whether it’s a quiet exchange or a dynamic scene. The moment must feel significant, with a sense of rhythm and narrative. Timing is key.
Composition and Perspective
Photographers are encouraged to use creative framing, layering, and spatial awareness to elevate the documentary moment. The composition should enhance the story without altering the reality.
Emotional Impact
Judges will value entries that evoke a strong emotional response—joy, tension, intimacy, humour, or reflection—while remaining true to the moment.
Technical Execution
Despite the candid nature of the work, entries must demonstrate professional control of exposure, focus, and editing. The final image should feel polished while retaining its natural, documentary feel.
Minimal post-processing is allowed. Edits should serve to correct exposure, contrast, colour, or clarity while maintaining the natural look of the original scene. Stylised or artistic editing that alters the authenticity of the moment should be avoided.
Commissioned Work Only
Only images taken during a commissioned wedding are eligible. All submitted work must be captured as part of the official wedding day. Day-after-wedding shoots are not allowed in this category.
Eligible Subjects
Any part of the wedding day—from preparations and ceremony to reception and behind-the-scenes moments—is eligible, as long as the scene is captured candidly and without influence from the photographer.
Single Capture Rule
Only single-capture photographs are allowed. No composites or multiple exposures. Entrants must retain the original RAW file and may be asked to provide it upon request for verification.
No Direction or Intervention
Photographers must not influence or interfere with the moment in any way. This includes asking subjects to repeat or recreate actions, adjusting body language, or staging interactions.
Entries should reflect confident technical ability, creative framing, emotional intuition, and sensitivity to the flow of real moments.
The dignity, safety, and comfort of all subjects must always be respected. Judges may request proof of ethical and professional practice where necessary.
All subjects must be treated with dignity, respect, and professionalism. Entrants must follow ethical and responsible practices while documenting the wedding day. If required, organisers may request proof of safe conduct.
Irish Commercial Photographer of the Year 2026 (contains 11.1 & 11.2)
Irish Commercial Architectural, Interiors & Exteriors Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Creative & Fine Art Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Landscape & Nature Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Reportage & Photojournalism Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Traditional Family Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Emotive Family Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Traditional Newborn Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Emotive Newborn Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Maternity Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Pets & Domesticated Animal Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding – Classical Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding – Contemporary Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding – Creative Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Bride / Groom Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding – Documentary Photographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding Videographer of the Year 2026
Irish Commercial Videographer of the Year 2026
Irish Wedding Shorts Videographer of the Year 2026
Irish Commercial Shorts Videographer of the Year 2026