Kirklees College students bag photography awards

One of the BA (Hons) Contemporary Photographic Arts students scooped the top honour at the British Institute of Professional Photographers (BIPP) Yorkshire Regional Awards.

Jonathan Axall was voted overall winner with his iconic ‘eye’ image.

He said: “I was extremely proud to be selected as the Yorkshire region’s BIPP student photographer of the year, especially with the quality so high.”

Two of his coursemates, Anna Bridson and Christine Eastwood, were named runners-up for their travel-inspired photography and the course as a whole collected 12 merits in the student category.

Panel merits were also awarded to Julian Dyer for his historical re-enactment series and Sam Johnson, who also won the People’s Choice vote, for his film-still inspired series.

But it wasn’t just the students who won praise from the judges.

Lecturer Stewart Jackson, from Dewsbury, achieved the winning image of the non-commissioned category.

He said: “I am delighted to have received this award and it’s particularly satisfying to receive recognition for personal work.”

The competition attracted more than 140 entries from students and photographers in the Yorkshire region.

Judges said the students’ work had a professional feel and the standard was very high.

Course leader Katrina Whitehead said: “I’m extremely impressed with the standard of work this year – we have never had so many merit winners.

“We appreciate the help and support that BIPP offers our students which will help when they graduate this year and enter the world of employment as professional photographers.”

Work by the students will be exhibited at the School of Art and Design in Birkdale Road, Dewsbury, from Friday June 20.