New British Army photo competition launched

ABF The Soldiers' Charity is holding its photography competition for the third year running. The competition is to find images for its charity calendar and is open to both professional and amateur photographers.

The key theme for the competition is the British Army, although people are able to show what this means to them in order to make the images more personal. However, a special prize will be given to the image that best commemorates World War One.

Last year's competition saw hundreds of entries, which was judged by a number of different personalities, including BBC journalists Kate Adie and Michael Buerk, General Sir Nick Carter, the chief of general staff, Rob Cook from Canon UK and Andy Taylor from WEX Photographic.

The winning entry from last year's competition, which is being included in the 2017 calendar that is now on sale, was an image called 'Dog Days' by Trevor Sheehan. It featured a bomb disposal dog being held by its handler.

Mr Sheehan, who is from Hexham in Northumberland, said: “I saw this soldier and his loyal dog training and it was clear that they had a very close and special bond. I crouched down to dog height and took the shot. The dog remained very calm even with a camera so close, it was very professional.”

Other images included in the 2017 calendar following last year's competition include one of the British Army Bobsled team doing their thing and another of an artillery shell leaving a Light Gun after being fired. 

Retired Major General Martin Rutledge, chief executive of ABF The Soldiers Charity, said of the contest: “We started this competition so our supporters could show their view, images and imagination of what the British Army means to them. We have had hundreds of inspiring entries covering all walks of life, and we continue to be impressed by the high level of professionalism shown. We are already looking forward to seeing the submissions for the 2018 calendar, especially given the significance of the centenary year.”

Those interested in entering the competition have until April 30th, 2017 to get their entries in. Photos will then be shortlisted before being presented to the judging panel. The winners will be announced at the end of June.

You can find more information and enter your images here: soldierscharity.org/photocompetition