15/02/2026
My entry for the Independent Photographer - Black & White Photography Award.
"The Lucky Chimney Sweep" - A traditional British symbol of good luck, a chimney sweep greets the newlyweds with a lucky kiss, a handshake, and symbolic gifts — creating a memorable wedding moment.
I didn’t win this time … but that was never the whole point.
Entering this competition was about stepping forward, selecting an image from my portfolio with real intention — thinking deeply about subject, composition, tonal range, and visual interest.
The act of choosing forced me to look at my own work more critically and ask: What truly holds weight in monochrome? What story lives in the shadows?
Black & white photography strips everything back. No colour to lean on — just light, texture, contrast, and emotion.
That discipline alone was worth the entry. But what made the experience even more valuable was seeing the other submissions — and especially the winning images. The standard was incredible. Studying them closely, noticing how others handled light, negative space, timing, and mood …
Competitions aren’t only about winning. They’re about:
• Reflection
• Refinement
• Community
• Creative courage
I’m proud I entered. Proud I put my work forward. And even more motivated after seeing what’s possible.
Onwards. 📷
