These 19 awesome photos of buildings and architecture are this month’s winners of our major competition

1. Top architectural photograph by Helen Trust secures victory at International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2026. Her avant-garde black and white abstract captures the essence of Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences' Assut de l’Or Bridge. The sweeping cables form a complex interplay of lines, curves, and negative space against a stark black background.

2. Young Amateur Photographer of the Year 2026 honours Kaian Wang with first place. The guest judge, Jim Stephenson, admires the image’s storytelling potential despite the seemingly ordinary building. The stormy sky and washing line evoke a poignant narrative, transforming a simple scene into a captivating photograph.

3. Cliff Spooner’s Shaded demonstrates the power of simplicity and restraint. By focusing on geometric forms against a black background, the photograph achieves a minimalist aesthetic that exudes order and harmony. The vertical and horizontal lines create a sense of equilibrium, while the offset panel adds visual intrigue.

4. Chris Ellison’s Hidden in the Rocks highlights the beauty found in unexpected places. The photograph showcases a small house nestled amidst rugged rocks, striking a balance between natural elements and architectural presence. The mirrored calmness of the water enhances the scene’s tranquility, revealing the architectural detail in a unique and memorable way.

5. Sirsendu Gayen’s Way to Heaven presents a theatrical perspective of Jantar Mantar. The image captures the grandeur of the historic structure, emphasizing the architectural precision and intricate details. The theatrical lighting and composition invite viewers to appreciate the monument’s cultural significance and historical value.