Am I amazed by the rising skill of non-professional participants in photography competitions!

In a surprising turn of events, the 2025 International Photography Awards have seen a significant number of wins by non-professional photographers. This shift mirrors the streaming revolution in Hollywood, where tools of production are increasingly accessible, and raw talent rises to the top, regardless of pedigree, gatekeeping, or credentials.

One such winner is Ilene Meyers, who clinched the Nature Photographer of the Year award in the non-professional category. Her photograph, titled "Iowa Storm Cell," is a testament to her skill and artistic vision. Taken with a micro four-thirds sensor at 1/15th at f/10, the photograph captures a climatic moment of storm cells brooding overhead while golden light breaks through. The image is so compelling that it makes one want to chase tornadoes across Midwest America.

Meyers' photograph effectively conveys the electric tension in the air before a storm hits, showcasing Mother Nature's split personality. It is a far cry from the mortgage-sized full-frame beasts often associated with professional photography. Instead, Meyers' work demonstrates that a smaller camera can produce stunning, award-winning results.

Another notable winner is Kohei Kawashima, who won the Sports Photographer of the Year award in the non-professional category. His photograph, "Piercing the Rainbow," is a representation of kinetic poetry. Shot at 1/4200th of a second at f/9.0, the photograph depicts a rider at Tsukuba Circuit as a silhouette slicing through a swirl of colours, resembling a comet streaking through a rainbow. The artistic vision of Piercing the Rainbow, channeling the Japanese technique Suisei Nagashi, captures the essence of speed and fleeting beauty.

Sebastian Piorek's photograph, "The Overflowing Earth," won the Editorial/Press Photographer of the Year award in the non-professional category. The photograph documents Poland's expanding landfills, showcasing abstract beauty contrasted against their grim reality.

Tom May, a freelance writer and editor specializing in art, photography, design, and travel, has been closely following these developments in the photography world. With a career spanning various mainstream titles including The Sun, Radio Times, NME, T3, Heat, Company, Bella, and having been editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq, and deputy editor at net magazine, May's insights offer a unique perspective on the leveling of the photography industry.

Am I amazed by the rising skill of non-professional participants in photography competitions!