National photography competition recognises Solent alumni

Celebrating the diversity of the UK and its communities, the British Journal of Photography's Portrait of Britain competition launched in 2016 and showcases the most talented photographers working today. Among the 2025 winners are BA (Hons) Photography alumni, James Cannon and Juan Trujillo Andrades, alongside BA (Hons) Fashion Styling and Creative Direction alumna, Shahfaq Shahbaz.

Shahfaq's portrait, The Power of the Veil, is a stunning image inspired by personal experiences as a British Pakistani Muslim. On discovering her passion for photography while at Solent, Shahfaq says:

"My time at university and my course helped me navigate what part of the industry I wanted to go into. I thought I wanted to be a stylist until I realised photography was something that interested me more, and I'm glad my course covered every element so I could explore my options of what path best suited me."

When it comes to the role of higher education in giving emerging creatives the tools they need to succeed in one of the UK's most competitive industries, Shahfaq says, "Holding a degree in an industry I'm actually pursuing means a lot.

"I feel proud to tell people I have an education in the industry I work in. It makes me feel like I was made to be a part of this creative community, as that's all I've ever known and wanted."

James Cannon's winning portrait, Steppers Women of Colour Walking Football Club, is a celebration of sport and friendship, and marks the second win for the Solent alumni. James says:

"Solent helped me set up my practice, giving me a strong period of time to really push and develop. University gave me the time, space and support to really delve deeply into the subject matter, its history and how I could make it relevant for today. Developing your passion and interests are paramount and a degree gives you the time, space and support to produce and execute new and fresh work."

As an established photographer who has worked with some of the world's biggest brands, including Adidas and Honda, as well as with BAFTA and The Sunday Times Magazine, James' win is the latest in an illustrious career. On his win, he says:

"This is lovely recognition, and the exhibition is one of its kind, in that it reaches millions of people all over the UK, regardless of age. The reach it has for the Steppers team is great, as I so believe in them, what they're doing and what they represent."

Juan's winning entry, The Swimmers, shows a group of men preparing to swim in the sea in Cornwall, highlighting the value and importance of male friendship. An established professional photographer, Juan has worked with McLaren, National Geographic and The Guardian, among others. He was also previously shortlisted for the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize.

On this fantastic success, which showcases the achievements Solent graduates go on to have, Course Leader Photography, Nina Sverdvik says:

“I can see why the judges were so impressed with our alumni’s portraits. Their photographs are captivating and inspiring and what is most striking is the sense of connection and joy that the portraits convey. They are all fantastic photographers and inspiring ambassadors for the Southampton Solent alumni community.”

With a focus on industry, Solent University offers practice-led learning which gives students the skills needed to carve out a career in the creative industries. Alumni success in this year’s Portrait of Britain awards shows current and incoming students what is possible both during and after university.

Creative students at Solent have the opportunity to develop their skills in industry-standard studios and be guided by lecturers whose work has appeared in globally-recognised spaces, including London’s National Portrait Gallery.