About the awards
Originally known as the Heritage Bank Photographic Awards, we’ve been celebrating the art of Australian photography since 1988 and the powerful way it brings people and communities together.
Now proudly presented as the People First Bank Photographic Awards, our purpose remains unchanged. At its core, these Awards are about connection, creativity, and capturing the stories that shape our lives and leave a lasting impact.
Each year, we invite photographers of all skill levels to participate. With a range of categories to choose from, there's something for everyone — whether you're just starting out or have years of experience behind the lens.
Entries are free, and all submissions are judged by a panel of industry experts. Plus, there's the chance to win some fantastic prizes and gain recognition for your work.
Looking for inspiration?
View the latest People First Bank Photographic Awards Exhibition, featuring a collection of last year's winners and finalists.
Or download the Photographic Awards History Catalogue to browse highlights from past years.
Credit: Chloe Varvell, 'Lapland Magic'. Winner, Young Photographer Award 2025.
Meet the judges
Australian photographer Alex Cearns OAM crafts exquisite animal portraits that convey the intrinsic joy people find in animals. As Creative Director of Perth based Houndstooth Studio, she has photographed more than 15,000 dogs in her studio. Her clients include engaged pet lovers, leading corporate brands and around dozens of Australian and international animal charities and conservation organizations. Her images have been published extensively in worldwide media, books, magazines and ad campaigns.
An undisputed leader in her niche, Alex is the recipient of more than 350 awards for her photography, business and philanthropy. She is an Ambassador for Tamron, Profoto, BenQ, Studio Ninja, SanDisk, Ilford Imaging Australia, and Spider Camera Holster.
Mike O’Connor is the editor of Australian Photography magazine. A career journalist, he started out as a travel photographer and writer in his native New Zealand, where his work has been published across many print and online outlets. Following work as a cadet journalist in India, he worked as a writer and photographer for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), highlighting the work of conservation volunteers across Aotearoa.
Since 2016 he has been responsible for managing Australian Photography’s print and online presence, administering its numerous photography competitions, and promoting the work of Australian photographers of all genres. He lives in Christchurch, NZ, with his wife and two daughters.
Bev Lacey is a freelance Photographer with extensive experience in capturing photographs for print media publication products and for online platforms. A creator, and curator, of numerous photographic exhibitions, and appointed judge of multiple photographic competitions, Bev is passionate about sharing the joys of creating through teaching, sharing of creative ideas and concepts.
Syd has established a reputation as a leader in Portrait and Commercial Photography running a successful business in Toowoomba. Being a family business, Syd’s passion for photography started at a young age, and he has been honing his craft ever since. With over 45 years of experience in the field, he has become known for his exceptional skill and eye for detail, always striving to produce images of the highest quality.
His portfolio includes a diverse range of subjects, from corporate headshots to family portraits, all with his signature style. Syd has been a judge for these awards for over 15 years.
Mark is an award-winning photographer who specialises in photographing travel and tourism experiences. He is a winner of the Comedy Wildlife Photographer of the Year and also hosts photography workshops around Queensland.
Stay up to date
To stay up to date on the People First Bank Photographic Awards, click the link below to opt in to our mailing list for reminders and notifications.
Credit: Carly Earl, 'Riley Swanson on the Roma Southern Road'. Winner, Graham Burstow Memorial Award 2025.
Award Galleries
A selection of our award winners images are on display at the following locations:
