1. Make us feel something
A technically strong image is important, but emotion is what can make a photograph memorable.
Judge Alex Cearns OAM says the images that grab her attention are the ones that create an immediate emotional response.
Mike O’Connor also looks for photographs that make him stop, think or ask questions, while Bev Lacey says it can be something as simple as a connection through a subject’s eyes.
The tip? Choose an image that makes the viewer feel something.
2. Tell a story
The strongest photographs often go beyond simply showing us what something looks like. They give us something to think about.
That might be a candid moment between people, or an unexpected detail or a scene that leaves the viewer wanting to know more.
As Mike puts it, “an award-worthy image should tell a story while also being photographed, edited and presented with care”.
3. Don’t over-edit
Editing can help bring out the best in an image, but it shouldn’t have to rescue it.
Mike recommends using editing to emphasise what was already there, rather than completely transform the photograph.
Alex agrees, pointing to heavy-handed editing, cluttered compositions and distracting elements as things that can weaken an entry.
Start with a strong photograph, then edit with purpose.
4. Take a second look
Before you submit, spend a little time looking at your image with fresh eyes.
Bev encourages photographers to think carefully about composition and whether anything in the frame is distracting from the story.
Sometimes a small crop, a more considered edit or simply choosing a stronger frame from a series can make all the difference.
5. Be selective
If you have several similar images, don’t submit them all just because you can’t choose.
Bev’s advice is simple: make the decision yourself and submit the photograph you believe is strongest.
Alex suggests choosing an image that speaks to you through its story, technical quality or the uniqueness of the moment.
And if you’re unsure, Mike recommends getting feedback from someone who will give you a thoughtful, honest opinion.
6. Think differently about ‘All kinds of good’
This year’s themed category is All kinds of good. There’s no single way to interpret it.
It could be an unguarded moment between people, a community coming together, someone quietly helping another person, or a simple moment of joy, kindness or connection.
Mike will be looking for empathy and genuine emotion. Bev sees plenty of opportunity for documentary-style storytelling, while Alex says the theme can be expressed through moments of joy, gentleness and kindness.
The key is to choose something that feels genuine to you.
Before you submit:
Take one final look at your image and ask:
- Does it make me feel something?
- Is there a story here?
- Is the composition clean and considered?
- Have I edited it with purpose?
- Is this genuinely my strongest image?
Then trust your instincts and hit submit. Entries are open until 23 October for the 2026 People First Bank Photographic Awards, with over than $50,000 in prizes across the Theme, Open and categories. Enter here today.
People First Bank Photographic Awards
The People First Bank Photographic Awards are about connection, creativity, and capturing the stories that shape our lives and leave a lasting impact.