We’re excited to announce the fifth edition of the Female in Focus award, in partnership with Nikon, a global leader in imaging technology.

Five years ago, the British Journal of Photography revealed a striking statistic: only one in nine photography award winners were women. Today, that number is just over one in three*, but there’s still work to be done. Our recent survey of over 1,000 audience members found that women working in the photography industry earn, on average, 30 per cent less than their male counterparts who took part, and 55 per cent have faced gender discrimination in the workplace.

This year’s theme, Renewal, explores the processes of rejuvenation and rebirth, reflecting new beginnings—whether through personal growth, environmental restoration, or societal change.

The jury will select 20 single images and two series winners to be exhibited in a group show at 10.14 Gallery (London) and Glasgow’s Gallery of Photography. Thanks to our partnership with Nikon, the photographers of the two winning series will also receive a Z Series mirrorless camera, along with two NIKKOR Z lenses of their choice.

Plus, for the first time ever, the People’s Choice Award will allow the public to vote for their favourite image. The winning photographer will be featured in an interview on 1854.photography, discussing their work and creative practice.