Most people, when taking a photograph, place their subject bang in the centre, which is frankly boring,” WO1 Barry Lloyd (RLC) explains to Soldier.
And this man should know – he’s the army’s command master photographer, responsible for overseeing service picture-takers.
However, this year’s Army Photographic Competition is not just about the professionals – more than half of the categories (shown overleaf) are open to amateurs.
“Always try to find a different viewpoint,” the expert continues.
“Get lower or higher; try shooting the subject from multiple angles. Your first image will rarely be your most interesting.”
This is valuable advice in the age of the omnipresent smartphone and an almost infinite number of reels to scroll.
With such a tidal wave of military content available online, this contest represents a unique chance for soldiers – and professional photographers – to get their talent noticed and, more importantly, make audiences pause to consider the incredible work that servicemen and women undertake every day.
“We often talk about people being our best assets,” WO1 Lloyd continues. “And that’s because its true.
“Images that capture our incredible workforce in action are generally more powerful than those of pieces of equipment or landscapes in isolation.”
If you require any more advice on what makes a good image, last year’s professional winner, Sgt Donald Todd (RLC), has some sage words.
“This competition is one of the few opportunities where your everyday work – the moments you capture on the ground, in training or with your team – gets seen, appreciated, and celebrated,” the senior NCO comments.
“Last year I entered with no expectation of winning. But the experience showed me how powerful our stories really are.
“To have my work recognised was incredibly humbling. It reminded me that even the small, everyday moments can have considerable meaning.”
If you are inspired by any of the images over the page from last year’s competition – which went on display to VIPs at the National Army Museum – read on for details of how to take part.
The deadline is April 17 and winners will be announced in this magazine in early summer.
Army Photographer of the Year
A portfolio of six images – RLC phots only
Amateur Photographer of the Year
A portfolio of four images – open to all (not RLC phots)
Story of the Year
Six images from the same event that tell a story – RLC phots only
People/Portrait
One image of a member of the army – open
Capability (Kit/Equipment)
One image showcasing the best of the army’s in-service gear – open
Best Video
Best video production showcasing the British Army – RLC phots only
Best Showreel
Best video production showcasing the British Army, no longer than two minutes – RLC phots only
No separate entry needed for the below categories – they will be picked from the entries above
Image of the Year
Best image from any of the other categories, selected by a panel of industry professionals – open
People’s Choice
Best image from any of the other categories, selected by a public vote – open
You must be a serving member of the British Army (regular or reserve) on the day you enter, or a civil servant employed by the service as a professional photographer
Up to three entries per category
By submitting an image to the competition, you give Soldier and the MoD permission to print it in
the magazine and distribute it to outside organisations under the terms of Crown Copyright
Capture must be between February 1, 2025 and April 1, 2026
Email your work – with the category you are entering stated in the subject line – to [email protected] before the closing date of April 17. Judging will take place in May with winners announced by this magazine – and the army – in the summer.
A selection of the entries from last year’s Army Photographic Competition ...
