After another fantastic year of entries, we are delighted to announce the winners of the 2026 Be Inspired photography competition!
Launched to celebrate the unique beauty and character of Richmond upon Thames, Be Inspired invited budding photographers to capture the places and moments that make this London borough feel so special. From stunning green spaces and vibrant high streets to tranquil riverside scenes, this year’s judge - Richmond-based National Geographic photographer Alex Saberi - had a difficult task ahead of him.
The Winners
After much deliberation, this year’s winners of the Be Inspired photography competition have finally been announced. Join us in congratulating them, plus, read a write up from Alex Saberi on why he chose the winning images.
1st Place - Emma Mapp (@mappoflondon)
Category: Riverside
Why Alex chose this photograph:
“The photo creates a sense of calm and stillness, the foggy and murky conditions along with the dark and light of the bridge really add atmosphere. Most Richmonders have observed this scene plenty of times and it still delivers a wonderful sense of tranquillity and mystery. I like the cold processing on the photo with a tinge of cyan. I also like the subtle highlights of the boat entering the shadow of the bridge.”
2nd Place - Karina Kapshuk (@keri_cherry)
Category: Green Space
Why Alex chose this photograph:
“For the choice that felt most magical I chose this deer photo. It sums up Richmond Park perfectly. A small patch of wilderness on the edge of a great city. The London skyline in the background just emerging.” The colours, rich and atmospheric, framed with the stag finishes the photo off nicely.
3rd Place – John Piper (@spudgunner)
Category: Green Space
Why Alex chose this photograph:
“The photo was taken on one of those fantastic misty mornings with the sun creating rays through the luscious forest. The leading line with the lady in red is great. I loved the dappled light pools and shadows in the green grass too. Lovely shot.”
A big thank you!
A massive congratulations to Emma Mapp, Karina Kapshuk, and John Piper. As you can see, the second year of this competition showcased once again the incredible creativity within our community.
The winning images will be included in a silent auction at a Be Richmond business engagement event in July, raising funds for local charity Habitats & Heritage. Furthermore, these winning photographs, along with a curated selection of entries, will be showcased as part of a special photography exhibition at Richmond and Hillcroft Adult and Community College from 22 to 26 June - celebrating the creative talent of the Richmond community, with all sales donated to Habitats & Heritage.
Talking of community, a huge thank you to the generous Be Richmond members who donated this year’s incredible prizes, including Countrywide Hotels, owners of The Selwyn in Richmond, IOLLA – handmade eyewear at affordable prices, and one of Richmond’s favourite bar and restaurants - No 1a Duke Street. Their support helped make this year’s competition even more special for participants and winners.
Finally, thank you to everyone who entered and shared their perspective of Richmond through photography. As mentioned before, the quality and variety of submissions made this year’s judging incredibly difficult and highlighted just how much talent exists within our community.
We’re already looking forward to seeing what talent next year’s Be Inspired competition will bring.
