Winning ways

In its eighth year, Portrait of Britain offers a rare moment to reflect on the diverse heritage of modern Britain. Peter Dench talks to some of the winners of Volume 7

- Peter Dench

The British Journal of Photography (BJP) has unveiled the Portrait of Britain Volume 7 winners from possibly the world’s longest shortlist. Until 2 February, the 100 winning portraits will light up on JCDecaux UK digital screens across the UK, offering a contemporary insight into Britain. All 200 shortlisted portraits are featured in the Portrait of Britain Volume 7 photo book published by Bluecoat Press (320pp, 165x210mm, £25).

Professional and non-professional photographers of all ages are eligible. Portraits must depict subjects photographed in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) and have been taken after 1 January 2023.

Just under 1,700 entrants submitted approximately 7,000 entries. BJP subscribers (annually from around £20-30 ) can enter 10 images for free. Details of how many entered the competition were unavailable. The cost for entry for non-subscribers is: one image for £10, three images for £20, 10 images for £35. The entry fees raise questions about whether Portrait of Britain (PoB) is a revenue-focused venture or genuinely beneficial to participants. What makes a strong portrait and how can photographers enhance their chances of success? Here, some of the winners give their insights and experiences.

‘I love Portrait of Britain. The fact that there’s this huge public exhibition if you’re a winner and also, if you’re shortlisted, the book is beautiful. It’s a real cross-section of portraits,’ says artist, film-maker and portrait photographer Carolyn Mendelsohn.