These 19 impressive portraits from our major competition capture the beauty of people and human connection
The results of the People & Portraits category from International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2026 competition are in! See the top 10 here The post These 19 impressive portraits from our major competition capture the beauty of people and human connection appeared first on Amateur Photographer .
1. Rahimat Onize Shaibu secured top honors in the People & Portraits category of the International Amateur Photographer of the Year 2026 competition with a captivating self-portrait titled "Flourish." The photograph showcases Rahimat's intricate styling with tiny white gypsophila flowers framing her hair and face, against a backdrop of dark skin and deep tones.
The direct gaze of the portrait invites viewers into a moment of hope, renewal, and personal growth. Rahimat describes the flowers as symbols of these themes, adding depth to an already compelling image.
2. Matteo Botta emerged as the first-place winner in the Young APOY competition.
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