Master Photographer of the Year Awards 2010

Press Release:

Michael Dearden from Caerphilly scooped the top prize, being named the UK Master Photographer of the Year 2010. Michael's controversial winning image caught the eye of the judges for its unusual concept and faultless technique.

The announcement was made at the Master Photography Awards in Birmingham this weekend. A packed audience of professional photographers and trade representatives from all around the world attended the prestigious event held at the Hilton Metropole. The event was hosted by legendary comedian Tom O'Connor, who entertained the guests throughout a glittering evening.

Michael is no stranger to major awards having recently won Welsh Master Photographer of the Year for a staggering seventh time. It was a great night for Michael - in addition to the main prize of the evening, he was awarded a first in the Contemporary Wedding category.

MPA Chief executive, Colin Buck made this comment on the winner: "Michael's winning image is about as far from a conventional wedding photograph as you could wish for. It's the perfect example of how today's professional photographers push the creative boundaries and shows we should always expect the unexpected from our top photographers."

Qualified MPA members from around the world submitted images for the annual competition and only the very best were short-listed. Chairman of the judging panel, Henk van Kooten FMPA, paid tribute to the standard of entries: "The judges look for true photographic craftsmanship. A beautifully lit image on its own may not be enough to win, we require a great concept and for this to be coupled with a full range of different skills including direction, design and printing. This year gave us some fantastic images and some great surprises - the winner included!"

Ryan Wong Teck Yan from Singapore was named Overseas Master Photographer of the Year 2010.

All the winning images can be viewed online on the Master Photographer Awards website.