Smiling

The first thing to catch my eye in this image is the 'posing' and composition. The shot wouldn't have been the same if the bird had been photographed quietly perched, still and composed. Its spread wings, in fact, add incredible character and dynamism to the entire image.

The second element to stand out is the light. It's harsh, but it falls on the subject's face at just the right angle, at the same time highlighting the shiny feathers on the majestic eagle's wing, elevating the shot.

This is a truly unique portrait that is well thought-out and showcases many photographic skills. A well deserved first place. Well done!

Great choice of subject and beautiful composition in this eye-catching portrait. The subject's eyes, with their bright catchlights, draw the viewer in, even though they are not looking into camera. The woman exudes calm and serenity, easily inspiring a smile in return.

I like this image's composition, and I especially appreciate how the photographer chose not to include the entire hat in the frame and rather decided to move in closer to the subject, pleasingly placing her just off centre.

The black and white toning is sublime, well balanced and with the right amount of contrast, which isn't always easy to achieve, especially in black and white.

This is a fantastic portrait shot that I thoroughly enjoyed looking at. Well done!

I find this portrait intimate and sweet, more than any others in the competition. Every element in this shot works in creating and enhancing that sense of intimacy: from the soft, dim light, to the warm colour toning, to the dark and bokeh background.

The light hits the subject's face at an angle that ensures she is visible whilst maintaining the right amount of soft shadow and mystery. At such angle, the light is able to emphasise all the beautiful skin texture that gives the subject character. The catchlights in the woman's eyes are the perfect final touch to an already successful portrait image. Well done!