As a photographer for more than 25 years and adapting to the ‘new norm’ as we slowly emerge after the lockdown, I was delighted to hear I had been recognised as one of the winners of a national award in the 2020 Portrait of Britain Awards. The award means a lot to me as it represents my photography skills honed over the decade and the added bonus of prestigious recognition by a distinguished panel of judges and the public.

The contest was organised by the British Journal of Photography in Partnership alongside JCDecaux Group - a multinational corporation based in Neuilly-sur-Seine, near Paris, France, and one of the largest outdoor advertising corporations in the world.

The Judges

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the judges.

Simon Bainbridge — Editorial Director, British Journal of Photography

Parveen Narowalia — Digital Picture Editor, British Vogue

Martin Usborne — Co-Founder, Hoxton Mini Press

Brass and Glass

I am proud to announce my image of a local brass musician, Ryan Ashley, was chosen as a winning image. Ryan was the Principal Cornet Player with The Boarshurst Silver Band based in Greenfield, Saddleworth and the photograph was originally taken to celebrate the bands 165th anniversary.

The competition was held to initially raise awareness of the rich tapestry of Britain and to celebrate individual stories in a creative art form via photography. All the photographs will be on display throughout the coming months via the JCDecaux network of electronic advertising billboards that make up the displays on bus shelters, shopping centres, pedestrian precincts and train stations throughout the UK.

Please contact me via the website if you see on a display near you and claim a surprise gift!

The main aim was to create a legacy of portraits collectively of all the band members so their children and grandchildren could see them as part of their family history for many years to come.

Originally, the photograph was for my celebratory, self-published book named ‘Brass and Glass’ that prompted me to utilise a camera made by the iconic camera and lens manufacturer Leica. The Leica M camera system was not only chosen for it’s amazing image quality, but I also wanted it to become part of the story because both the camera and lenses used are partly made of brass.

The winning image now has pride of place in the Phil Melia Photography portfolio that also includes imagery from my recently launched, Fine Art Print Brand. All these prints are available via the website philmelia.co.uk

For more information contact Phil Melia on 07973 204849 or email phil@meliaphoto.com

Competition Links:

https://www.portraitofbritain.uk

https://www.bjp-online.com/2020/08/portrait-of-britain-2020-the-winners/