The Photography & Video Show is heading back to London for 2027 – returning to the London ExCel exhibition center for four days from Saturday, March 13 to Tuesday, March 16. The show will be open from 10:00 to 17:00 every day.

The Photography & Video Show is the must-attend UK event for anyone with an interest in photography or filmmaking, from complete beginners to working professionals: the biggest players in the industry show off all their latest kit – often for the very first time; there are inspiring talks from famous content creators; and don't miss the famous show deals where you can pick up the gear you've been lusting after at a knockdown price.

The show launched in 2014 a at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre. The show now alternates between Birmingham and the British capital every other year, with the 2028 event scheduled to be back at the NEC

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Students of photography, film or related subjects (ID required) will get free entry on Monday and Tuesday if they book in advance, and professionals will also be entitled to free entry on any of the days (subject to verification). Sign up to be notified when registration and ticket sales open later in the year.

More than 150 of the biggest brands in the business will be exhibiting at the show, enabling you to chat to industry experts, watch kit demonstrations, and try out the latest gear for yourself. The full line-up of speakers and exhibitors will be revealed as they are confirmed later in the year.

And just as important as all the big names, there will be plenty of smaller exhibitors in attendance, with many new and innovative products waiting to be discovered as you explore the show floor.

The Photography & Video Show 2027: What's on show

If it's related to the world of photography, videography and imaging, expect to see it somewhere on the show floor!

Digital cameras, analog cameras, vintage cameras, lenses, tripods, filters, bags, straps, holsters, clothing, memory cards, microphones, speed lights, studio lights, modifiers, reflectors, printers, printing services, photobooks, magazines, film, film scanners, photoshoot props, editing software, tablets… it's all here.

The Photography & Video Show 2027 will also feature its usual highly anticipated stages and educational program – offering hundreds of free talks from top photographers, and demonstrations on photo technique, video skills, and editing.

The Photography & Video Show 2027: The stages

All Things Analogue
A celebration of the art of traditional film photography and the darkroom, this is the place to learn about a variety of analog techniques and processes, (both stills and cine), with insights into projects about non-digital applications, along with interactive demos.

Photo Live
This live-action, tethered-shooting stage will have practical demos on subjects such as lighting, posing, working with models, and capturing movement.

Editing & Post-Production Suite
This is the place to learn about all aspects of image editing and post-production, with a series of seminars covering workflow tips and techniques for both stills and video, across a variety of software applications.

Behind the Lens Theatre
This stage, sponsored by Hahnemühle Fine Art, offers insight into the techniques and stories behind images and projects, as well as inspirational sessions from world-class imaging educators in a series of talks and interviews.

In Motion Studio
A theatre for all things moving image, this is designed to offer insight into producing engaging content, storytelling, and creating projects using different video and filmmaking techniques, no matter what your level.

Creator Stage
This program is dedicated to online content creation on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and more. Aimed both at existing and budding creators, as well as photo and video pros looking to boost their business via social channels, this stage will have talks on everything from online community building to getting started in vlogging.

Creator Playground
With a series of sets and studios, this is the place to have fun, let your imagination run riot, and create your own content!

How do you get to the show?

Getting to ExCeL couldn’t be easier nowadays, thanks to the Elizabeth Line which runs right across the centre of London from Reading and Heathrow, with stops at Liverpool Street and Paddington stations. Travel to Custom House station which is right at the entrance of the Excel exhibition center – allowing you to be in the show within five minutes of arriving. It is also on the DLR line.

The exhibition centre is also right by City Airport.

Check here for more travel options.

Of course, there is plenty else to see and do in London - and our free guide to London for photographers will give you some ideas that may encourage you to make a weekend visit…

What if I can't make it to the show?

Although there's no substitute for being at the show itself, you can stay up to date with what's going on by following the official Facebook, Instagram and X (or Twitter, as most of us still call it) channels of The Photography & Video Show.

Digital Camera World will also be there live every day to bring you all the photo news, so make sure to keep this page bookmarked, and stay up to date by liking our Facebook page, following us on X (Twitter) and by signing up to our daily newsletter.

The Photography & Video Show is presented by Future Plc, which is also the parent company of Digital Camera World.

Thypoch has teased its first-ever autofocus zoom lens – but I've already shot with the upcoming lens at The Photography & Video Show earlier this month in Birmingham, UK.

The forthcoming lens, officially announced in this Instagram post, is a 24-50mm f/2.8 for Sony E-mount.

In itself, a 24-50mm zoom doesn’t sound that cool; after all, there are more than a few of these on the market, but this marks Thypoch’s first foray into zoom and AF lenses. In fact, it's believed to be the first autofocus zoom lens from a China-based company, marking a significant milestone in the growth of Chinese third-party lenses.

Until now, the Chinese company had made a name for itself as a manufacturer of affordable, retro-style, manual focus-only prime lenses.

The upcoming full-frame 24-50mm AF E-mount features aperture and manual focus rings, which move smoothly with a nice level of resistance, and there’s a handy MF/AF button on the lens barrel too.

Despite the plastic build, the lens felt solid in hand, and Thypoch has gone with a modern, slick aesthetic which looks similar to competitors, notably the Samyang 24-60mm f/2.8.

Using the Thypoch 24-50mm E-mount lens attached to my Sony A7 III, I snapped a few pictures of the also yet-to-be-released Thypoch 35mm ASPH prime lens for Leica M-mount.

The f/2.8 was bright, and the AF locked on in a respectable time, although it didn't seem to like the fluorescent indoor lighting too much.

I tried eliciting more information about the lens' internal build while speaking to the Thypoch representatives at The Photography & Video Show.

But despite what I thought was a slick line of questioning, they “knew nothing” about the lens beyond what was visible, or were at least well-trained actors – I'd say the latter.

Thypoch hasn't announced when the forthcoming FE 24-50mm AF lens will be released and if it'll put out variants for other camera mounts either, but, as a Sony shooter, I'm eagerly awaiting.

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Read our guide to the best Sony lenses, which include top-tier G Masters. Or, for something friendlier on your wallet, see our review of the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN, which the coming Thypoch zoom lens will be competing against.

Ever locked eyes with a wild owlet? Louise Norris did – and fortunately had her Canon camera paired with a 100-500mm telephoto lens ready to capture the encounter.

Her image, A Gazing Owlet, won the Birds category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition. Shooting with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II – a camera known for its near top-tier specs – and a long telephoto lens – a type of lens generally considered heavy – Norris operated handheld.

What makes the image so compelling is the direct eye contact between the owlet and the lens. The composition uses softly blurred foreground leaves to create a natural frame-within-frame, while the owlet's lighter tones stand out beautifully against the dark, green backdrop.

'A Gazing Owlet'

A Gazing Owlet by Louise Norris
Winner of the Birds category

Tech info
Gear: Canon EOS R6 Mk II + 100-500mm lens
Exposure: 1/50s, f/7.1, ISO 10,000

Norris says, "Looking vertically between the gaps in the leaves, handheld at 1/50s due to the lack of light, waiting for this delightful 4-weekold little owl owlet to look down and make eye contact. Moment made by the rim light catching on the owlet fluff!"

Winner of the Birds category

Norris' A Gazing Owlet won the top prize in the Birds category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition. At the live ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including Heron in Flight by Michelle Jackson and Company of Gannets by Frank Urban.

Sophia Spurgin's Fish Eyes was awarded the competition's overall winner and earned her the LCE Photographer of the Year title.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE Photographer of the Year website.

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Looking for competitions to enter? Here are 10 global photo contests now open for entries from March to July.

Panoramic cameras are typically used for wide landscapes, but one photographer repurposed a legendary panoramic camera with a moving lens to record a hip disco-rock band on film. At the Photography & Video Show 2026, I met a photographer who used a legendary panoramic film camera to photograph a band at the equally legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, England.

Chris Lombardi, a London-based photographer and self-proclaimed “film nerd”, used the Widelux panoramic swing-lens camera to snap The Great Leslie during a recording session at Abbey Road.

I met Lombardi at the Vintage Camera Hut stand at the show earlier this week, and he gave me the lowdown on how the Widelux works and shared his photos from the band shoot, which I now have the privilege of sharing here.

The Widelux is a swing-lens panoramic film camera that was introduced in the 1950s by Japanese firm Panon Camera Shoko. It became known for its unique design featuring a rotating f/8 lens that achieves a 126-degree field of view for cinematic-style shots

This unconventional camera was initially produced for 120 medium format film, but in 1958 its creators rolled out the Widelux F1 for 35mm. On 35mm film, the Widelux creates a 24x59mm image exposing the film through a slit which enables creatively distorting frames – which Chris took full advantage of at Abbey Road.

As if using this retro panoramic shooter at Abbey Road Studios, of all places, wasn't cool enough, the actor Jeff Bridges is now bringing the camera back decades after it went out of production.

The Wideluxx (Bridges' rebranding), recreated by Bridge’s company SilverBridges, went into production last year and it combines the iconic f/8 rotating lens with modern tech and durability, featuring a full-metal construction.

We don’t know when the Wideluxx will go on sale, but Bridges already has working prototypes, so my hope is that at some point this year we’ll see this panoramic film camera make its legendary comeback.

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Read our expert take on the best film cameras and Music photographer Kevin Nixon’s top 10 tips for concert photography.

The winners of the LCE Photographer of the Year competition were announced live at The Photography & Video Show 2026, and one of the runners-up snapped a real-life scene of Tom and Jerry.

But unlike in the cartoons where clever Jerry always bests cunning Tom, Aaron Whiteaway's photo, which was a runner-up in the After Dark category of the LCE awards, depicts a more ominous scene.

The image, aptly entitled Tom & Jerry, shows a mouse trying to climb a step while in the background, a lurking cat has its gaze fixed on the mouse, ready to pounce.

I love this image, especially the way in which the perfect amount of depth of field has been used to tell the story.

At first glance, it’s not obvious that the out-of-focus object in the background is a lethal cat on the hunt. But a moment later, it becomes clear, as does the peril that the mouse faces, and I’m gripped by angst, knowing this is likely its last moments.

'Tom & Jerry' – Finalist in the After Dark category

Commenting on his image, Whiteaway said: “After a night out testing my latest 300mm lens, as I returned home, I stumbled upon a cat playing with its prey in the street.”

Whiteaway was shooting on a Nikon Z8 with a Nikon VR 300mm f/2.8G telephoto prime lens. He used 1/40sec shutter speed and a wide-open f/2.8 aperture, but still needed ISO 6,400 to ensure sufficient exposure.

“I managed to lay the lens down on the floor with its tripod foot for stability, angled the screen upwards on the camera and shot off a burst of shots,” said Whiteaway.

The other brilliant aspect of this image is that it leaves the ending up to the imagination. Whiteaway said: “I unfortunately never did find out how it all unfolded that night between the cat and mouse, but what a bittersweet moment it was to experience.”

While I’d like to imagine the mouse making a smart escape just like in the cartoons, something tells me the real-life scenario played out in a more deadly way.

The LCE POTY 2026 awards are now in their third year, and this year there was over $13,300 (£10,000 / AU$19,000) in prize money up for grabs. The 2026 overall winner was an amateur photographer whose ‘playful portrait’ beat over 14,500 entries.

See the whole lineup of finalist photos from the LCE POTY 2026 awards

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Sport photography is one of the most demanding genres – and shooting it with a manual-focus camera is nothing short of extraordinary. But photographer Jacek Salaga did it, now recognized with a top photography award.

The image Half a Second Before captures a fleeting instant: a wrestler suspended mid-air. The precision and timing required to capture this fraction of a second highlight Salaga's technical mastery.

Salaga's skills were awarded with the Event category award at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition – but if you've seen the live announcement at The Photography & Video Show, this is no big news.

The no-autofocus gear

To capture the moment, Salaga relied on a Leica M10-R – a stylish rangefinder that does not feature AF (autofocus). He paired it with the Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2, a wide-angle manual-focus lens, and a Godox strobe for lighting – also entirely manual.

Salaga explains, "The 'Half a Second Before' photo was taken during a wrestling event in Denmark. Fast growth of interest in this form of entertainment has turned it from almost unknown to very popular, with major events sold out in the ticket presale."

Award-winning technical skills

Capturing sharp action in milliseconds without AF sounds impossible – but Salaga pulled it off. While some third-party adapters can add AF to certain lenses, this was probably not used here, as it's not evident in the shot details (EXIF Metadata).

Most likely, the photographer relied on zone focusing, a technique widely used in street photography.

By pre-setting the lens to the expected action zone and using an aperture of f/10, Salaga maximised depth of field to keep the scene sharp. The 1/180 sec shutter speed, combined with a strobe flash, helped freeze motion perfectly.

And flash doesn't automatically make an image sharp. While the strobe helped freeze the wrestler mid-air, focus still had to be precise.

With these settings – plus the right experience and anticipation for the sport – he was able to capture fast-moving action using a manual-focus-only setup.

For more insights and to see all winners, visit the LCE Photographer of the Year website.

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I’m feeling smug as I write this because I’m one step ahead of the rumors. Leaked images of the coming Thypoch 35mm f/2 M-mount ASPH lens have surfaced online, but this isn’t news to me because at the Photography& Video Show 2026 I got my hands on this lens and have my own images to share.

The Thypoch Ksana 35mm f/2 is a manual focus aspherical (ASPH) prime lens coming for full-frame Leica M-mount cameras. It’s the second lens in Thypoch’s Ksana lineup, joining the 21mm f/3.5 released earlier this year.

At the show, the guys manning the Thypoch stand told me that this lens is designated ASPH. I can’t tell you how many ASPH elements it features – nor the release date or price for that matter – as the Thypoch staff “knew nothing”. But, if it features a similar optical design as the 21mm f/3.5, which I assume it will, then it’ll likely have just the one aspherical element.

From my pictures, you’ll see that the coming 35mm f/2 lens has a compact build featuring a focus and aperture ring. While lightweight, this lens is built like a tank and feels very sturdy.

Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly how much it weighs, but it feels like a feather, despite being made of metal, which is likely aluminum, just like the 21mm f/3.5. Thypoch’s coming 35mm ASPH lens also boasts that classic look which Leica shooters will love.

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I stumbled across something interesting at The Photography & Video Show 2026 — the kind of find that reminds you why wandering exhibition floors is so much fun. Tucked away on Vintage Camera Hut’s stand was a quirky little gem: the Loreo Stereo Panfocus 28mm, a 3D film camera that mimics how our own eyes and brain work together.

At first glance, it looks like a retro toy camera. But press the shutter, and it does something clever. Instead of taking a single image, it captures two at the exact same moment using twin 28mm lenses — one for the left eye and one for the right.

These images sit side by side on a strip of 35mm film, and when viewed properly, merge into a single 3D scene. It’s essentially recreating stereopsis, the same process your brain uses to perceive depth.

Of course, viewing the results is part of the experience. You can use a dedicated stereoscopic viewer, like Loreo’s Mini or Maxi Viewer, to see the images pop into three dimensions. You can also try the cross-eyed method — but unless you enjoy headaches, the viewer is definitely the way to go.

What makes this camera especially appealing is how simple it is. There’s no fiddling with settings or overthinking exposure. Focus is fixed from about 2.5feet (80cm) to infinity, the shutter sits at 1/60sec, and you get just two aperture choices: f/11 for flash and f/18 for daylight. It’s point-and-shoot in the purest sense.

One particularly interesting aspect is how this camera changes the way you compose images. Because it’s capturing depth, scenes with strong foreground and background separation suddenly become far more engaging. A simple shot of a street or a portrait gains a layered, almost immersive quality — something flat images often struggle to convey.

With contemporary photography dominated by digital perfection, the Loreo Stereo Panfocus is a playful throwback. It’s less about technical precision and more about rediscovering the joy of perspective — quite literally in three dimensions.

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I never thought I’d be saying this, but having spent these past two days at the Photography and Video Show, I may have been converted to Nikon.

You read that right, this Sony shooter is happy to admit that Nikon’s cameras are impressive, and having made the jump from Nikon in 2022, I’m considering switching back.

At the Photography & Video Show , I’ve been handling dozens of cameras from all the major brands, but it’s Nikon’s that’ve stood out to me. From the aesthetics and build quality to how ergonomic they feel, I’d say Nikon cameras lead the way, with Hasselblad a close second.

Nikon rigs look so slick and modern. The higher-end and newer video models in particular, such as the Nikon Z9 and ZR, have an aesthetic appeal that even the latest Sony Alpha and Canon EOS cameras don’t. Of course, choosing a camera isn’t all about how it looks, but first impressions count.

With a Nikon in hand, I can appreciate the solid build quality and ergonomics, too. Not only do they feel sturdier and more rugged than the competition, but they also fit more snugly. One of my biggest criticisms of mirrorless cameras in general is how shallow the grip tends to be, but holding a Nikon is like a throwback to the DSLR days, and I prefer it.

While I’ve been swooned by Nikon here at the show, the love doesn’t run deep just yet. After all, it’s what’s inside a camera that counts, and I’ve been such a Sony fanboy these past few years thanks to its industry-leading autofocus and sensors. In fact, Sony even manufactures the sensor used in Nikon’s flagship Z9 camera.

If I’m going back to the dark side, I’ll first need to get out in the field with a Nikon and put it through its paces. In a bid to convert me, I’m sure my diehard Nikon colleagues will be happy to lend me their cameras. I might even try my luck asking Nikon for a long lease, but something tells me I'll have to swoon them in return.

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In late December we reported that Venus Optics, makers of Laowa lenses, seemed to be working on a new macro lens capable of a whopping 10x magnification. For context, a typical macro lens usually offers a 1:1 reproduction ratio (1x). 1x magnification means the object you're photographing is reproduced at exactly the same size on the image sensor of your camera as it appears in real life.

Well, the rumors from December are true, as the lens is on display now at The Photo and Video Show 2026. Its official name is the Laowa 17.5mm f/1.7 5-10x Ultra Macro APO, and we now know some more of the lens's specifications. It's a full-frame lens comprised of 17 elements arranged in 12 groups, it has an 11-blade aperture, and a minimum working distance of 22.48mm. The lens itself measures 70.2 x 156mm and weighs 618g. Expect mount options for Sony E, Nikon Z & F, Canon RF & EF, and L-mount cameras. With so many mounts, focussing is inevitably manual only, but for precise, considered macro shooting, autofocus is much less important than with other forms of photography.

Another stand-out feature of the 17.5mm f/1.7 5-10x Ultra Macro APO is its swappable front section. This gives you the option to fit a barrel tip with an opening in its side, through which a light can be shone. This is a very handy feature, as with such a close working distance at 10x magnification, it would otherwise be very difficult to effective illuminate the object being photographed.

Also on display at this year's show is the Laowa FF 45mm f/2.8 Ultra Macro 1-5x APO. This is a slightly more conventional macro lens than the 5-10x optic, featuring 13 elements in 9 groups. But like the 5-10x lens, it gets an 11-blade diaphragm and has full-frame sensor coverage. The advantage of having a lower magnification ratio is you get a slightly more practical 40.35mm working distance, making it easier to light your subject. The 1-5x lens is roughly the same size and weight as its 5-10x sibling, with a 70.2mm diameter, 149.5mm length and 646g weight. It will also be available in the same mount options. As with many other Laowa macro lenses, these new models should keep aberrations to a minimum thanks to their APO (apochromatic) optical construction, which is designed to supress both lateral and longitudinal fringing. This is crucial for high magnification close-ups where even minor fringing could otherwise be very distracting.

We don't yet know when either lens will be available to buy, or for how much, as both are still in the prototype stage and minor tweaks could still be made before they enter production.

Nature's inhabitants are strong – even if they're tiny and almost invisible to the naked eye. Ants, for example, are among the strongest creatures on Earth (measuring strength in relation to size) – and macro photography can give us a glimpse into this hidden world of power...

One photographer who knows this world well is Dikye Ariani. The image, Teamwork, just won the Macro category at the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 – but if you attended the live announcement at The Photography & Video Show, you may have already heard the news.

"This image stood out due to its clarity, color, and narrative," said jury member Jimmy Cheng, an award-winning portrait and travel documentary photographer. It beautifully captures teamwork and determination in such a small world – brilliantly observed and perfectly timed."

Macro category winner

Teamwork by Dikye Ariani

Tech info
Gear: Sony A7 III
Exposure: f/16, 1/60 sec, ISO 125

Ariani explains, "Teamwork Red ants are incredibly strong relative to their size, capable of lifting 5,700 times their body weight. They possess powerful mandibles, painful venomous stings, and can form 'supercolonies' of millions.

"Ants actually have four to five times more odour receptors than most other insects. It's this exceptional sense of smell that helps ants find food. Shot in Indonesia.

The LCE POTY Awards

The LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards, organized by photo retailer London Camera Exchange, celebrate outstanding photography across 14 diverse categories, including landscape, portrait, macro, street, and more.

Open to photographers of all experience levels, the free-to-enter competition features a £10,000 prize fund, a People's Choice Award, and an Emerging Talent Award.

For more information, visit the LCE POTY website.

The Photography & Video Show continues at the NEC, Birmingham, until Tuesday March 17

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Having opened on Saturday, The Photography & Video Show 2026 is rocking and rolling – and on Monday we’ll be treated to a speech by Lara Jackson-Turner, a conservation biologist and wildlife photographer with a knack for snapping incredibly beautiful animal portraits.

While Jackson-Turner is no stranger to capturing a killer moment, what really strikes me is her ability to transform often savage subjects into warm, almost friendly beings.

And if you want people to care about the natural world and the furry foes we share it with, then, arguably, showing animals in their best light is the best way to create an inter-species connection.

However, a conservation biologist at heart, Jackson-Turner’s mission goes way beyond simply snapping an animal’s best angles. She’s a zoologist with ample experience in the field helping to protect wildlife in remote and challenging environments.

Her projects include managing dolphin research in Zanzibar, ten months of conservation work in Kenya, as well as wildlife data collection in South Africa.

Getting back to her photos, Jackson-Turner is a Nikon ambassador and uses the Nikon Z9, the flagship 45MP full-frame professional camera with a stacked CMOS sensor.

Having a Z9 in hand puts Jackson-Turner in a good position to capture great wildlife shots. But, for me, it’s her clear understanding of light and how it affects the colors and mood of a scene that makes her animal portraits so eye-grabbing.

Jackson-Turner enhances this approach in post-production, dodging and burning select portions of her frames to further outline the subject’s expression. I particularly like how, time after time, she seems to capture poignant moments.

If you’re keen to hear Lara Jackson-Turner speaking at The Photography & Video Show, you can catch her at the Motion Studio Stage on Tuesday 16 March from 12:15 for Women in Wildlife – where she'll be joined by wildlife content creator Roxy Hemadani and wildlife cinematographer Sophie Darlington ASC.

I caught up with Lara at The Photography & Video Show 2026

Wildlife photography requires telephoto lenses with fast glass to achieve clean background-subject separation at distances that don't stress out the animal.

We all know this kit comes with scary price tags but, at the Photography & Video Show, Lara's tip was to rent gear if you can't afford to buy.

Many photographers don't know that renting gear is an option and, among others, trusted rental providers include Wex and LensPimp.

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Amateur photographer Sophia Spurgin has just been crowned the overall winner of the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 competition live at The Photography & Video Show – and anyone who was there will certainly have felt the excitement among the participating photographers....

The portrait captures a genuine slice of local life – authentic and unposed – emerging from a photography session that was drawing close. In a spontaneous and playful exchange, retired teacher Spurgin engaged with a fisherman, who responded by lifting two caught fish in front of his face.

Titled Fish Eyes, the image carries a subtle sense of humor. The fisherman holds the fish in perfect alignment with his own eyes, creating a striking, symmetrical focal point that immediately draws the viewer's attention. The title itself is a clever visual wordplay, and the fishermen's playful pose transforms a travel moment into a memorable and now award-winning photograph.

LCE Photographer of the Year – Overall Winner

Fish Eyes by Sophia Spurgin
Category: Travel

Tech info
Gear: Canon EOS R5 Mark II + RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM
Exposure: 1/320 sec; f/5.6; ISO 640

Spurgin explains, "The photo shows a Vietnamese fisherman holding two fish in front of his eyes. There is a fishing net behind him. I took this on a boat in Hoi An, Vietnam.

"I had been taking photos of him fishing, and this was the playful end of the photography session."

She wins a total of £3,000 to spend on photographic gear at LCE - having beaten the other other category winners.

The LCE POTY Awards

The LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards, organized by photo retailer London Camera Exchange, celebrate outstanding photography across 14 diverse categories, including landscape, portrait, macro, street, and more.

Open to photographers of all experience levels, the free-to-enter competition features a £10,000 prize fund, a People's Choice Award, and an Emerging Talent Award.

For more information, visit the LCE POTY website.

The Photography & Video Show continues at the NEC, Birmingham, until Tuesday March 17

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The striking photograph, Solar Eclipse, has been shortlisted for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards.

Captured by Denis Borovskikh, the image transforms rooftops and viewers into a living geometric composition. While the sun itself is not visible, it's the visual storytelling that makes the image special.

The result is a photograph where the eclipse is felt, now seen – telling a story of culture and human anticipation. Borovskikh created repeating patterns that echo the brutalist lines of the surrounding architecture – an award-worthy study of light, rhythm, form, and human presence.

Finalist in the category: Events

Solar Eclipse by Denis Borovskikh

Tech info
Gear: Canon EOS R + 24-70mm
Exposure: 1/800 sec, f/5.6, ISO 400.

Borovskikh explains, "On April 8, 2024, in Mexico, descendants of the Aztecs and Mayans observed a total solar eclipse. People stood on rooftops everywhere, heads tilted upward, calmly observing the rare phenomenon through homemade sunshades.

"Brutalism, geometry, and the sky, all directed through cardboard. It would be interesting to hear that the Sun hasn't been visible in Mexico during its eclipse for the past 500 years. For me, this story is more about a reflection of life than about the power of a natural phenomenon."

Why it could win

1. Geometric rooftops and human slignment
Rooftop and viewer form repeating patterns, creating strong horizontal and vertical rhythms. The visual order transforms the crowd almost into an architectural element of the composition.

2. Cultural storytelling through minimal objects
Even though the eclipse itself is not visible, the image conveys anticipation, observation, and cultural engagement, underlined through homemade cardboard eclipse viewers.

3. Calm yet monumental atmosphere
The imbalance between the urban environment and sky evokes a serene, minimalistic, and urban mood. The scene captures the extraordinary nature of a rare event successfully, only through human behavior.

4. Cultural and historical resonance
The descendants of the Aztecs and Mayans observing the eclipse link modern spectators with centuries of traditions. With the visual decisions, the photograph transforms a fleeting astronomical phenomenon into a timeless photographic document.

Update

Solar Eclipse didn't take the top spot in the Event category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition.

At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including Airshow in the Alps by Mark Lynham and Half a Second Before by Jacek Salaga, with the latter ultimately crowned the category winner.

Sophia Spurgin's Fish Eyes was awarded the competition's overall winner and earned her the LCE Photographer of the Year title.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.

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The Photography & Video Show is in full swing with all the biggest names in the world of photo, video, and content creation showing off their latest gear. Canon has some pretty incredible VR tech, you can try Fujifilm’s GFX Eterna medium format cinema camera, and Loawa has some crazy magnification macro probe lenses – but my highlight is already Samsung’s Creator Playground.

The Creator Playground is always a regular attraction at the show, but this year it’s bigger and better than ever, with an entire globetrotting photo experience, and even a quick trip into outer space – take that Katy Perry.

Starting off in Europe, the trail kicks off in my home city of London, where you can pop into one of the city’s iconic red phone boxes. After that, take a quick bike tour through the orange groves of Spain before heading further through the Mediterranean, and living your own Mamma Mia fantasies on your private Greek island.

Next, it's a quick hop over to the Americas. Wrap up warm for some tobogganing while the snow falls in Canada, throw down some chips in Las Vegas, before finishing in Mexico for some Day of the Dead celebrations.

A quick visit to Asia lets you head through India on a rickshaw before ending up in South Korea for some noodles under fluorescent lights.

Head next to the Middle East and a Moroccan tea house, before heading over to Africa and taking your jeep out on safari, where you can tick off two of the big five. Finish your world tour down under in a tropical paradise before hitting up an Australian BBQ.

Finally, suit up and blast off into outer space!

If you want to go and create some content in the Creator Playground, head along to The Photography & Video Show at the NEC in Birmingham and have a play. For more information and tickets, visit the official website.

It's as rare as the proverbial rocking horse poop, but the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome is on the show floor at The Photography & Video Show – open now until Tuesday March 17 at the NEC in Birmingham, England.

Launched in January, and technically on sale in mid-February, the street-oriented compact camera has been such a hit that some pre-orders won't be delivered until June. But if you make the trip to the NEC, you can try the camera for yourself at the Ricoh Pentax stand (C100).

As a big fan of cameras for black-and-white photography, I've been super excited to get my hands on the GR IV Monochrome – which, in case you missed it, takes the streetwise experience of the standard Ricoh GR IV but replaces the color sensor with a 25.74MP mono sensor.

By omitting the color filter array, and removing the interpolation process used to render a full-color image, the sensor delivers incredible clarity and micro-contrast – and also promises great performance at higher ISO sensitivities.

The compromise is that there is less headroom for exposing highlights, so you'll need to beware clipping if you're not used to shooting with an exclusively black-and-white sensor.

Because the camera I "liberated" from the Ricoh stand was a pre-production model, I can't share the images from my initial test. But I used it for typically GR run-and-gun reportage shots and was impressed with the tones and rendering produced by this camera.

Having spent a lot of time with the far larger and far more expensive Leica Q3 Monochrom, I have to say that I actually prefer the depth of the blacks and the overall punchiness of the Ricoh.

Of course, you can judge for yourself if you try the camera out at The Photography & Video Show – which is open today until Tuesday March 17 at the NEC in Birmingham. For tickets and more information, visit The Photography & Video Show website.

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I've not always worked at Digital Camera World; before that I published books about photography, and shot video with flying cameras. That means I've never left the photography scene, and I've attended photo trade shows in New York, Germany, and more. But the best moment is always the opening of the show we still affectionately call "TPS."

These days it's "The Photography and Video Show," and, as a journalist, my role is more about meeting people, but way back I was also an exhibitor. When I worked for a well-known print publisher, I brought hundreds of books in boxes from offices in Brighton, and colleagues of mine and I would rush in and out of the hall, putting up display boards we'd just had printed, carefully arranging leaflets detailing our special show offers, and generally.

It's fun to be an exhibitor because it changes the work patterns, and because you get to meet your customers face-to-face. And that makes you a better business person – I honestly think that, as a publisher, I helped produce better books because I met so many photographers in real life. Professional, enthusiast, beginner, and many who only concentrate on social.

There is also one magical moment at the show, given an extra bit of spice this year as the show returns to its "spiritual home" – Hall 5 of the NEC. The countdown.

Those of us lucky enough to be involved in the running of the show, or the running of a stand, are inside the hall as it happens, while the arriving photographers can wait in a lobby.

There is a giant screen above the entrance, offering glimpses to the waiting visitors of the hall they're about to get into, but, unlike a football stadium, they're not stuck in the same place when the whistle goes.

When the timer counts down, the gateway between the industry and the people that give life to that industry is taken away. People flood into the room.

The atmosphere is electric. People are grabbing deals. Chatting. Looking at things they wouldn't usually look at.

As I stood there capturing this video with a 360-degree camera people waved, some remembered me from the past.

It's not too late to be part of The Photography and Video Show 2026 this year, either as the four-day exhibition continues until Tuesday.

The photographer didn't even intend to capture a heron that morning – she was waiting for kingfishers. But instinct, timing, and lightning-fast reflexes turned an unexpected visitor into a contender for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards.

Michelle Jackson's image Heron in Flight is a stunning black-and-white capture of the bird gliding low over the canal, wings spread with effortless grace. Originally set up to capture fast kingfisher shots, Jackson quickly adjusted her camera to capture the heron in sharp detail against a simplified monochrome background.

Because sometimes, the best photographs come when you least expect them... and when you're ready to react!

Finalist in the category: Birds

Heron in Flight by Michelle Jackson

Tech info
Gear: Canon EOS R6 Mark II + EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM + 1.4x III extender
Exposure: 1/3200 sec, f/4, ISO 1250

Jackson explains, "The heron was captured very early morning flying at low level close to the canal bank. I was on the opposite side waiting for kingfishers when the heron flew into my scene, it was too good an opportunity to miss and capture at a low-level flight.

"I turned it to mono to avoid background distractions and to fully focus on the bird itself. It was taken with Canon equipment R6 Mk2 with the rf 100-500mm set at approx. 300mm and I was using a monopod.

"My settings were set up in manual and set up for a fast shutter speed for the kingfisher. I didn't have time to reduce my shutter speed as I would have missed the shot as I said I didn't want to miss the opportunity of this graceful flight."

Why it could win

1. Low-level perspective
Capturing the heron at low altitude near the canal emphasizes grace and elegance while maintaining a connection to the environment.

2. Minimalist monochrome
The black-and-white tones eliminate distractions, focusing attention solely on the bird's form and wing movement.

3. Exceptional timing and preparedness
The photographer reacted instantly, maintaining manual settings optimized for fast shutter speed, ensuring the fleeting opportunity was captured.

4. Clean composition and motion clarity
The sharp detail of the heron against a simplified background highlights flight geometry and natural poise.

Black-and-white wildlife photography

While many photographers aim to capture wildlife in a true-to-life, realistic way, creating a monochrome image is equally compelling.

In black-and-white, the focus moves to exploring artistic qualities. Light, texture, and form take center stage, emphasizing details such as fur, feathers, skin, or horns. The absence of color draws attention to structure and movement, and adds a timeless quality.

Monochrome images can be dramatic, especially when shot in high-contrast light, making the subject visually pop against its surroundings. But they can also be subtle and almost romantic, like Heron in Flight, making the bird appear balanced and stand out gently against a muted background.

Update

Heron in Flight didn't take the top spot in the Birds category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition. At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including In the Company of Gannets by Frank Urban and A Gazing Owlet by Louise Norris, with the latter ultimately crowned the category winner.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.

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The striking action wildlife photograph, A Surprise Flight, has been shortlisted for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards.

Amateur photographer Louise Norris captured the dramatic scene with a Canon mirrorless camera that excels in frames-per-second rates and a premium telephoto lens to get as close to the action as possible.

What makes this shot especially remarkable is that Norris achieved it at an ISO of 20,000 (!) – an exceptionally high setting that most photographers probably would consider extremely challenging to expose with.

Yet she managed to balance the limited early-morning light with a shutter speed of 1/800, keeping the osprey's head razor sharp while allowing just a hint of motion blur in the wings to the action.

But can the image titled A Surprise Flight take the win?

Finalist in the category: Action

A Surprise Flight by Louise Norris

Tech details
Gear: Canon EOS R6 Mark II + RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Exposure: 1/800 sec, f/5.6, ISO 20000

Norris says, "When osprey chicks are still young, and whilst the female remains on the nest, the male must work tirelessly to provide food for their family, often fishing before dawn in attempts to beat competing males to the catch.

"This image was taken at 4.30am using an ISO of 20,000 carefully balancing the shutter speed with the limited available light and at the same time the need to keep the image sharp.

"I was fortunate to be directly in front of this osprey as he dramatically emerged from the water towards me with his prey, who appeared particularly shocked to be on an unexpected early morning flight.

"The image aims to highlight the intensity of the bird's stare with the surrounding splash adding to the action and energy of the scene all whilst conveying the story of the hunt.

"The shutter speed of 1/800 second retains detail in the head whilst allowing slight blur in the wing tips showing the movement and effort of the weighted take-off."

Why it could win

1. Intense action frozen with controlled motion
The osprey emerges from water mid-flight, its head perfectly sharp while the slightly blurred wing tips convey dynamic energy.

2. Masterfully ISO and shutter speed handling
ISO 20,000 is carefully balanced with a fast shutter speed, capturing the early-morning drama without losing detail or introducing noise that would distract from the subject.

3. Narrative storytelling & timing
The bird's startled prey and focused gaze highlight the intensity of the hunt, creating a visual story of survival, capturing the raw energy of nature and the decisive moment of predation.

4. Dramatic composition
The central framing and splash around the subject amplify the sense of sudden, powerful motion perfectly.

Update

A Surprise Flight didn't take the top spot in the Action category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition.

At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including The Mighty Wave by Sophia Spurgin and Saving Lives at Sea by David Lyon, with the latter ultimately crowned the category winner.

Sophia Spurgin's Fish Eyes was awarded the competition's overall winner and earned her the LCE Photographer of the Year title.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.

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This aerial shot is unforgettable – offering everything from technical precision and perfect timing to a depth of cultural storytelling rarely seen in drone photography.

The image, titled Containment, capturing a container ship passing through Hong Kong residential building's famous "dragon gate," has now been shortlisted for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards – and there's no question why.

Captured by self-taught, award-winning British photographer, videographer, and visual artist Derry Ainsworth, the shot reflects his ongoing commitment to present Hong Kong through his unique perspective.

Finalist in the category: Travel

Containment by Derry Ainsworth

Tech info
Gear: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (Hasselblad L1D-20c + 28mm f/2.8)
Exposure: 1/320 sec, f/5.0, ISO 400

Ainsworth says about the image, "A lone container ship passes by the front of a residential building in Hong Kong. The ship can be seen through the building's 'dragon gate'-a feng shui design feature said to allow dragons to pass through from the mountains to the sea.

"Taken with a drone after patiently waiting for a container ship to pass by through the view of the gate."

Why it could win

1. Masterful geometric composition
The residential tower features a strong vertical pattern, while the "dragon gate" frames the container ship like a natural portal. This deliberate alignment showcases the architectural rhythm and the fleeting element within it.

2. Patient orchestration of timing
Capturing the container ship precisely at the gate demonstrates extraordinary patience and foresight. The single moment unites structure and motion, turning the scene into a visual narrative of chance and control.

3. Dialogue between human culture and industry
The "dragon gate," a feng shui feature, contrasts with the utilitarian container ship passing through. This juxtaposition explores Hong Kong's layered identity – tradition alongside global commerce.

4. Drone perspective for visual impact
Using a DJI Maic 2 Pro enables an elevated viewpoint that emphasizes scale and symmetry. The resulting image transforms a mundane urban scene into a striking, almost abstract composition.

Update

Containment didn't take the top spot in the Travel category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition.

At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including The Crossings by Uku Sööt and Fish Eyes by Sophia Spurgin.

The category win went to Sophia Spurgin's Fish Eyes, and this image also earned her the LCE Photographer of the Year title.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.

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The photograph captures a tense wildlife interaction between a griffon vulture and a golden jackal in the mountains of Bulgaria, has been shortlisted for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards – and it could be one of the competition's standout winners.

Photographer Tim Munsey froze a dramatic, split-second moment as the vulture asserted dominance over the jackal.

The scale and power of the vulture, contrasted with the jackal's numble reaction, make this image a striking example of wildlife photography at its finest.

Finalist in the category: Wildlife

Naughty Jackal by Tim Munsey

Tech info
Gear: Sony A9 III + FE 600mm F4 GM OSS
Exposure: 1/500 sec, f/4, ISO 5000

Munsey gives shooting insights: "A griffonvulture scolds a golden jackal high in the mountains of Bulgaria. Taken at the break of dawn with a Sony A9M3 and 600mm f/4, low light, low shutter speed (1/500th), enough speed to capture detail but blur the strike motion.

"The area is being used as part of a conservation project to reintroduce black vultures. The food given out attracts other species, hence this meeting of species. The jackal leaves unharmed. I like the way the image shows the impressive size of the vulture."

Why it could win

1. Extraordinary behavioral moment
The photo freezes a dramatic confrontation between a griffon vulture and a golden jackal competing for food. Capturing such a rare interspecies interaction requires both patience and perfect timing.

2. Powerful visual drama and tension
The vulture's wings are fully spread as it strikes downward, creating a sense of dominance and imminent impact. The jackal's defensive posture intensifies the narrative, turning the image into a moment of raw wildlife tension.

3. Strong composition and sense of scale
The framing highlights the enormous wingspan and presence of the culture compared with the jackal. This visual contrast immediately communicates the power imbalance between the two animals.

4. Conservation and ecological storytelling
Taking at a feeding site connected to culture conservation efforts, the image reveals how restoration projects influence wildlife behavior. It goes beyond aesthetics by documenting real ecological interactions with a recovering ecosystem.

Update

Naughty Jackal didn't take the top spot in the Wildlife category at the LCE Photographer of the Year competition.

At the live awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show 2026, it faced strong competition, including Munch by Karen Blow and Fighting Foxes in the Rain by Sophia Spurgin.

The category win went to Sophia Spurgin. She was also awarded the LCE Photographer of the Year title with her image Fish eyes.

To discover more winning images, visit the LCE POTY website.

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The Finalists for the LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards have been announced – and the winners will be revealed live at The Photography & Video Show 2026 in Birmingham.

If you're visiting the show before the big reveal, you'll also get a chance to see the shortlisted images in a dedicated exhibition on the show floor. The display offers a sneak preview of the photographs competing for the top prize – before the category winners and overall Photographer of the Year are announced on stage.

The real moment – and one of the highlights of the show – comes with the live announcement, when the judging panel unveils which images take the titles and the £10,000 prize fund.

Now, let's take a look at some of the shortlisted images digitally – and see if your pick matches the judges' choice... Discover the full list of Finalists on the LCE POTY website.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!
• Download your FREE Photography & Video Show guide and get prepared…

Shortlisted images

Category: After Dark
Interstellar Radiant by Joao Serralheiro

Tech info
Gear: Sony A7 III + FE 20mm f/1.8 G
Exposure: 30 sec, f/1.8, ISO 640.

"This star trails image is the result of two hours of long exposures under the steerable 60-foot diameter dish antenna of the One-Mile Telescope at the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory, Cambridge UK.

"The result reflects planet Earth's rotation on its axis. The One-Mile Radio Telescope was the first to use Earth-rotation aperture synthesis to explore and create high resolution radio maps of the universe."

Category: Portrait
Brothers by Paul Anthony Wilson

Tech info
Gear: Nikon D3x + 70-200mm f/2.8
Exposure: 1/125 sec, f/4.0, ISO 200

"Two lads watching me shoot the 'Reading of the Charter' at Seamer Horse Fair, were consistently begging for a photo. I was too close to focus, so backed up a little, spun around and snapped. The older boy lifted the younger’s head – his gap-toothed smile made the shot."

Category: Street
The Euros by Ethan Parker

Tech info
Gear: Sony A7C II + FE 28mm f/2
Exposure: 1/160 sec, f/13, ISO 50

"During the build up to the 2024 Euros final, cheers, chants and chaos filled the air. This shot captured the juxtaposition of all the chaos and cheers with the subject in the bottom corner of the frame who had likely had enough of all the noise that day."

Category: Travel
The Crossing by Uku Sööt

Tech info
Gear: Canon EOS 6D + EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Exposure: 1/500 sec, f/5.6, ISO 800

"I photographed this moment from a small boat on Taung Tha Man Lake (Myanmar), gently drifting while waiting for the scene to align. As the sun dropped behind U Bein Bridge, I watched the silhouettes move across the weathered teak, waiting for the brief instant when the spacing, gestures and rhythm of the people made sense as a single story.

"Some walked in pairs, others alone, one paused mid-step. From a distance, they became shapes rather than identities."

Category: Macro
Milking Bonnets by Tony North

Tech info
Gear: Nikon D500 + 105mm f/2.8
Exposure: 1/160 sec, f/8, ISO 1000.

"I shot these Milking Bonnets at Marbury Country Park in Cheshire. I lit them from behind with an LED panel and sprayed water to create the rain effect. Mushrooms can only grow after rain as the fungus needs the water. The mushrooms were focus stacked."

Category: Landscape
Into the Cave by Filip Hrebenda

Tech info
Gear: Sony A7R V + FE 12-24mm f/2.8 GM
Exposure: 1/30 sec, f/8, ISO 100

"Photo from an expedition to a remote desert in Saudi Arabia. Upon arriving in this area, I was surprised by how sharp and dominant the mountains rise from the endless sandy wasteland. The photo was taken on the first day of the trip during a windy sunset.

"There were no clouds in the sky, so I decided to climb to the middle of the opposite hill and find a small cave to make the scene more interesting. After a bit of searching, I managed to find one. Additionally, during sunset, the wind beautifully lifted the sand from the dunes beneath the peaks, adding a unique atmosphere to the photo."

The LCE POTY Awards

The LCE Photographer of the Year 2026 Awards, organized by photo retailer London Camera Exchange, celebrate outstanding photography across 14 diverse categories, including landscape, portrait, macro, street, and more.

Open to photographers of all experience levels, the free-to-enter competition features a £10,000 prize fund, a People's Choice Award, and an Emerging Talent Award.

For more information, visit the LCE POTY website.

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Browse the best professional cameras, the best photography lighting kits, and the best photo editing software.

Looking for competitions to enter? Here are 10 global photo contests now open for entries from March to July.

Viltrox has alluded to two new lenses with apochromatic (APO) technology coming to The Photography & Video Show (TPS), which begins this weekend in Birmingham, UK.

In a recent Instagram post, the third-party lens manufacturer showed off two silhouetted compact builds that look to be smaller prime lenses.

While the post as a whole reveals little information, the image does as the lenses depicted look a lot like the coming 35mm and 50mm f/1.8 APO primes lenses for the new EVO series which Viltrox revealed at this year’s CP+ show in Japan.

Viltrox’s EVO lenses sit between its super-budget-friendly Air series and higher-end PRO series lenses. EVO lenses balance premium features such as a lightweight, metal build, USB-C connectivity and clickable aperture rings with a still low-end price point. The series was launched late last year with the release of the AF 85mm f/2 EVO for Nikon Z-mount and Sony E-mount cameras.

Viltrox has made a name for itself as a manufacturer of cheap but high-performing prime lenses, and a premium feature it’s really pushing at the moment is APO technology.

APO optics correct chromatic and spherical aberrations using specialized, low-dispersion glass elements. This technology ensures that red, green, and blue light waves converge on the same focal plane, resulting in sharper images with minimal color fringing.

According to a recent report from Photo Rumors, at CP+ 2026 Viltrox engineers referred to the company’s APO technology as ‘hyper APO’, saying that ‘APO’ has become a buzzword among lens manufacturers, often used for technology that doesn’t truly meet the standard.

This is fighting talk from Viltrox and, if the coming lenses are the expected 35mm and 50mm EVO f/1.8 primes, then my expectations of their APO performance are high to say the least.

More will be revealed on these new Viltrox lenses at TPS 2026, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham, UK, and kicks off this Saturday 14 March. Viltrox will be at stand F72.

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Viltrox Air prime lenses offer solid specs for tight budgets. Check out our reviews of the AF 9mm f/2.8 Air, AF 15mm f/1.7 Air and AF 25mm f/1.7 Air.

We're just days away from The Photography & Video Show, which kicks off this weekend and runs from Saturday March 14 to Tuesday March 17 at the NEC in Birmingham, England.

With over 200 brands at the event – including Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, OM System, Sigma, Tamron, Adobe, Epson, Eizo, Godox, Ilford, Insta360, Laowa, Lowepro, Peak Design, Rotolight and more – it can be hard to know who to see and where to see them.

In addition, there are hundreds of free talks, demonstrations, workshops and presentations from some of the industry's biggest and most expert names – not to mention book signings, retailers offering exclusive show-only deals, and the vintage camera goldmine that is the Disabled Photographers' Society's bring and buy stall!

The four-day show is so big, with so much going on, that you're going to need a hand finding your way around – which is where the free downloadable show guide comes into play.

Whether this is your first time visiting the show or you've been to every one over its 12-year history (like me!), the guide is a handy PDF that's great to download to your phone so you can swipe through and see at a glance what is on, where, and when.

Click the link below to download the show guide, and I look forward to seeing you at the NEC from this weekend (I'll be there all four days)!

Click here to download your free show guide

Alternatively, you can access the show guide via the Show website.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

A few days ago, the Instagram algorithm served me a gorgeous image of a leopard by a photographer I don’t follow. I clicked the caption to find out more. But instead of an explanation of where or how the photo was taken, I was slapped in the face by a tepid stream of AI-generated waffle.

You probably know the style. Quasi-poetic word vomit like: “the animal moved effortlessly through a canvas painted by light and pure chance.” Or this, which accompanied another picture of two penguins: “their paths crossing and uncrossing, a quiet choreography of pursuit and promise.”

I understand why, if you’re not a confident writer, you might be tempted to get ChatGPT to write your captions for you. But if you do, you’re shooting yourself in both feet at point-blank range for several crucial reasons.

First off, generative AI is the mortal enemy of creators. Where once a company would hire a photographer, a copywriter and a designer to make an advertisement, now one person can chuck in a prompt and it’ll spit out something usable – stolen and regurgitated from the very people whose jobs it is replacing.

Why would you want to feed the beast that’s eating you alive?

Next, AI is known to have a colossal environmental impact through building data centers, mining of raw materials and sucking up scarce water resources. For wildlife and landscape photographers to embrace it, without a second thought for the nature they claim to love, is a baffling contradiction.

But most of all, AI-generated captions aren’t even good. They’re bland, meaningless and boring: the written equivalent of chewing on polystyrene packaging. They’re also completely unnecessary. I’m not sure who told photographers that they need to become poets as well, but trust me – they really don’t.

If you’re a photographer on Instagram, your followers want to see your photography. They don’t expect you to be a great writer. They don’t want a novel, they just want to know where you were, how you took the image and what you thought. That’s all.

Don’t believe me? Think I’m a Luddite, the modern-day equivalent of a typist objecting to the invention of the computer? It seems I’m not alone. When I posted about this on Instagram, I received nearly 1000 likes and over 100 comments agreeing that AI-generated writing is “obvious, boring and harmful.”

In an era where trust and authenticity are paramount, your genuine voice, even if it’s not perfect, is worth so much more than a bowl of bland, robotic porridge.

After all, if you’ve clearly used AI to write your caption, it makes me wonder if you used it in your images too!

Bella will be talking on the Canon Spotlight stage at The Photography & Video Show on Tuesday March 17 at 1pm

Save 20% on your Photography & Video Show tickets with code DCW26

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2026 marks the fifth anniversary of Calibrite; the brand that was created to take over X-Rite's photo and video calibration product division. Since then, Calibrate has launched a whole new range of color calibration devices, from the entry-level and accessibly-priced Display 123 colorimeter, through its core trio of Display SL, Display Plus HL and Display Pro HL monitor calibrators, to its flagship ColorChecker Studio complete monitor and printer calibration solution.

Calibrite's latest development is a new version of its Profiler calibration software package which works in conjunction with its hardware products. Profiler 3.0 gives you complete creative control over color, letting you build custom profiles for any printer–paper combination. Whether you prefer beginner‑friendly pre-sets, or have the expertise to make the most of advanced tools for precise colour tuning, Profiler 3.0 provides a clear and logical user interface.

There are pre-sets for photo, video, and pre-press, along with one-click functions for streamlined profiling. Delve deeper and settings such as luminance, white point, contrast targets and patch sizes are all customisable, saveable to custom pre-sets, and even sharable. Profiler 3.0 also includes a suite of utilities to evaluate monitor image quality, including colour and luminance uniformity across the screen, while Monitor Validation can be used to check the color accuracy of an existing color profile.

If you want to find out how to get the most out of Profiler 3.0, as well as learn about Calibrite's range of calibration devices, then head to The Photography & Video Show 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham, UK, which takes place 14-17 March. You'll find Calibrite's products available to sample at Stand G62 (Lumesca Group).

Becoming a professional nature photographer is no easy feat. You don’t just need an eye for a beautiful landscape or a striking wildlife scene, you also need to be business savvy.

The most successful nature photographers in the world are the ones who manage this balancing act well and, in fact, it doesn’t matter which photography niche you specialize in, you need to get this right to make a living from the craft.

Fortunately, The Photography & Video Show is just a week away with a schedule jam-packed with professionals ready and willing to share their wisdom on how to master capturing light, but also in ensuring you make enough money to keep the lights on at home.

While there are numerous speakers I could recommend, I’m most excited to hear Bella Falk, an accomplished wildlife and travel photographer who’s diversified her income across several photography-related streams, and Charlie Waite, the renowned landscape photographer with a unique creative style.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

Charlie Waite

Speaking on Saturday 14 March | 12:00 – 13:00 | Fundamentals Stage

Bella Falk

Speaking on Tuesday March 17 | 13:00 – 13:45 | Canon Spotlight stage

Bella Falk has an excellent eye for wildlife and travel photos, but also for shifting trends. As a BBC and National Geographic-published photographer and writer, not only is she a versatile creative, but she proves the importance of diversifying your skillset in today’s landscape.

Becoming a self-employed photographer means embarking on the uncertain path of entrepreneurialism, and Bella’s tips will give you a leg up along the way.

Bella’s advice will be balanced nicely by what Charlie Waite has to say. Waite is an acclaimed landscape photographer who, during a career spanning over 40 years, has won numerous accolades including fellowships to the Royal Photographic Society and the British Institute of Professional Photography.

He has tons of wisdom to share at the Show, and I’m most excited to learn about how he approaches shooting a scene and how he developed his instantly recognizable “painterly” style.

If you’re serious about making nature photography your living, Bella and Charlie will help you understand both sides of the professional coin.

Head to The Photography & Video Show website to get your ticket and come along to the biggest photography event in the UK. The four-day show runs Saturday 14 to Tuesday 17 March at the NEC in Birmingham, and doors open 10am each day.

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Read our expert takes on the best camera for landscape photography and the best camera for wildlife photography.

Photographer Alan Schaller knows the highs of global recognition but also the frustrating lows of an industry that often undervalues its creators.

From street photography to launching SPI (Street Photography International), and now Irys, a revolutionary photography platform with Schaller's consistent mission: champion photographers, protect their craft, and push for fair treatment in the industry.

Ahead of his talks at the Photography & Video Show 2026, he shared his thoughts on the challenges facing photographers today and gave insights into the app Irys – a space for photographers to share their work, explore career-fostering opportunities, and connect with other creatives – without the pressure of social media metrics.

Schaller's Talk

The monochrome mindset: Creativity, culture, and community

14 Mar 2026 – 15:45 - 16:45
Behind the Lens Theatre
The Photography & Video Show 2026

Alan Schaller is a giant of modern street photography. Renowned for his distinctive monochrome style and focus on shape and form, his work has been exhibited worldwide, and he is highly sought after by brands for commercial campaigns. He will discuss his career, his photography style, and how he has built his following. He'll also delve into how he came to launch Irys and the community-driven concept behind it.

Irys

A platform for photographers

• Focus on photography, not numbers, no pressure – No visible follower counts or toxic metrics, maintain ownership, no ads, safe platform. Share high-resolution work up to 30mb, EXIF data, any aspect ratio, non-downloadable.
• Join a supportive community & enhance your portfolio – share work, exchange ideas, organize projects or themed galleries, connect with like-minded photographers, and participate in competitions and challenges.
• Be discovered by the right people – Irys actively scouts talent and connects you with brands and publishers.
• Showcase your work beyond social media – Feature images in the Irys app, upcoming in-house magazine, gallery exhibitions, events, first test-runs of book publication starting this year
• Access fair-paid opportunities – Get compensated properly – better than standard industry deals.

Build from frustration, rooted in experience

For Schaller, social media numbers aren't the measure of talent. "I've got over 1 million followers on Instagram. Congrats.... I'm out. A lot of people see it like that because it's so prized – it's seen almost like your worth is your number. Some of the best photographers I know don't have a lot of followers at all."

Irys was created as a reaction to the toxic social media landscape and Schaller's frustration with the photography industry. "Because we got rid of the follower count, all the influencer people – they're not going to be interested. We want the people who are interested in photography."

"A huge focus on doing right by photographers, which I care about because I am one and I've been through a lot of terrible deals and situations," he explains.

Schaller saw how talented photographers were often undervalued. "People saying companies that are worth millions or billions have no budget... It's a very bizarre thing. There are a lot of advantages being taken, and it's not just photography – it's the music industry, it's writers and journalists getting paid hardly anything."

From the unfair reality that brands prioritize follower counts over photography skills, he emphasizes that photographers are creators, not marketers – their craft should be appreciated without the distraction of social media performance metrics.

"I want photographers to be valued for their work, not their numbers," he explains. Schaller adds, "It's crazy how far Irys has become. But here we are, trying not to behave like everyone else, and show that you can have a successful business while being fair to the artists and the community."

Pro Advice

Schaller's personal philosophy is grounded in focus and mastery. "There are very few artists in history who are multidisciplinary. Leonardo da Vinci was one of them. It's probably a good idea to focus on something... for me, that fell into monochrome photography, street photography, and abstract photography."

He sees mastery as a journey: "I've been doing black and white photography now for over 10 years, and I'm still experimenting. There's a lot to explore within just one genre... It's like the cerebral equivalent of being an athlete. Creativity engages your brain, how to make someone you've never met understand or feel something."

For aspiring photographers, Schaller's advice is 'simple': focus, think, and explore intentionally. "It's the thought process that's exciting – being an artist, not just what settings you're using or what camera you have."

For more insights, make sure not to miss Schaller's talk at the Photography & Video Show 2026 on March 14 at 15:45 at the Behind the Lens Theatre. For more information, visit the show's website.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Dive deeper into the monochrome topic. Here are tips on how to think in black and white and how to select in-camera B&W to master mono and keep color. You might also want to discover the #1 mistake in black-and-white photography – and how to fix it.

Photography is one of the most versatile creative media out there. You can approach it classically, experiment boldly, or blend genres into something entirely your own. That freedom is what makes photography so exciting.

But as photographers, we don't always feel inspired – even with all those possibilities, there are moments when it just... stalls.

That's where I am right now. Same streets. Same habits. Same way of looking at things. And if you've ever felt creatively stuck with your camera, you'll know how frustrating that can be. Sometimes listening to other photographers talk about their work and process is enough to shift your own.

That's why I'm genuinely looking forward to The Photography & Video Show 2026 – because I need a new perspective: to discover new ideas, new genres, and new ways of approaching the medium.

With so many free talks happening at the show, it feels like the perfect place to reset. I'll get to hear professional photographers break down their creative process, discover new photography techniques and shooting approaches, and explore new genres.

And the good thing about photography is that you don't have to commit to a complete reinvention. If you already own a camera, there's very little to lose.

If you're feeling uninspired too, maybe this is your nudge. Sometimes all it takes is seeing how someone else works to rediscover your own way of seeing.

That's why I'll be sharing the five speakers I'm most looking forward to – and they might encourage you to try something different, too...

Top 5 Talks

1. The monochrome mindset: Creativity, culture, and community

Speaker: Alan Schaller, Street Photographer
14 Mar 2026 – 15:45 - 16:45 – Behind the Lens Theatre

Alan is a giant of modern street photography. Since picking up a camera in 2015, his profile has grown exponentially. Now renowned for his distinctive monochrome style and focus on shape and form, his work has been exhibited worldwide, and he is highly sought after by brands for commercial campaigns.

Also known for his work as co-founder of Street Photography International, which spotlights emerging street photographers across the globe, in 2025 Alan founded a new photo sharing app, Irys.

Here, Alan will discuss his career, his photography style, and how he has built his following. He'll also delve into how he came to launch Irys, and the community-driven concept behind it.

2. Passes, pits & premieres: What it really takes to shoot the events photographers dream of

Speaker: Dr Denise Maxwell, Photographer, Educator and Mentor
15 Mar 2026 – 10:15 - 10:45 – Behind the Lens Theatre

Do you dream of shooting huge events? How do you even start? Denise has captured everything from celebs on red carpets to presidents, athletics, and the Commonwealth Games, and she's here to give you her insights from the inside.

She'll discuss how to get started, the application processes, and the kind of kit and approach needed to be successful - as well as what happens when you get there.

3. From mountains to the sea: How we photograph nature matters

Speaker: Espen Helland, Wildlife Photographer
15 Mar 2026 – 11:50 - 12:20 – Behind the Lens Theatre

Join Espen on a journey from high peaks to ocean shores, as he discusses his approach to photographing wildlife across various terrains.

Beginning with muskox in Norway and mountain hares in Scotland, Espen will descend the mountains to visit healthland and forest-dwelling birds, before capturing great crested grebes in the lochs, dippers and wagtails in the rivers, and finally seabirds at the coast – all the while with this mantra in mind: It's how we photograph nature that matters.

4. Lighting dogs, three ways

Speaker: Belinda Richards, Creative Pet Photographer
16 Mar 2026 – 14:00 - 14:30 – Photo Live Stage

Join Belinda Richards as she walks you through three of her go-to studio lighting setups for dogs, showing how small lighting changes can dramatically shift mood, shape, and impact. You'll see how each setup is built, why it works, and when to use it – from clean and classic, to bold and dramatic.

Belinda will break down light placement, modifiers, and practical tips for working efficiently with canine subjects in a studio environment. Perfect for photographers who want to elevate their dog portraits with lighting that is intentional, repeatable, and creatively flexible.

5. How a collective can take your film photography further

Speaker: Mandy Izquierdo, Film Photographer
17 Mar 2026 – 14:00 - 14:30 _ Analogue Stage

Would you like to help shape the future of film photography? In this session, Mandy will share the story of the community she founded - OnlyFilms. From its beginnings as a small group of film photographers, Mandy will discuss how it has grown into a space for collaboration, events, podcasts and dialogue around analogue photography.

Sharing her vision for where OnlyFilms is going, from learning and sharing to professional development, Mandy will invite you to join her, and discover how collaboration can strengthen your creative voice, and offer a rich source of contacts and opportunities.

The Photography & Video Show 2026

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Browse the best cameras for beginners, the best professional cameras, and the best cheap cameras.

A street photographer with a keen eye for human stories and everyday moments, Flavio explored a wide range of photographic genres before gravitating towards street photography – a move that reflects his enduring curiosity about people and their lives.

A Light & Land tutor, Flavio recently teamed up with fellow tutor Mark Seymour to launch Shoot the Street, a YouTube series dedicated to street, travel and people photography.

Flavio will be speaking on the Light & Land stand (B87) on Saturday 14 March at 1.30pm.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

See Flavio talk at The Photography & Video Show 2026

'Seeing the world like a street photographer' with Flavio Bosi will take place on the Light & Land stand (B87) on Saturday 14 March at 1.30pm.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

The Spyder Holster has for many years been a convenient, well-designed way to keep your camera by you side for rapid access, doing away with a traditional neck or shoulder strap. The holster section attaches to your belt, while a stout metal plate attached to your camera's tripod mounting point enables the camera to be slid into and out of the holster effortlessly. I've used the original Spyder Holster and found to be a great piece of kit, but now its makers have launched the third generation: SpiderPro Holster Set v3. Compatible with both DSLR and Mirrorless cameras, it's comprised of two main elements: the SpiderPro Suspension System v3, and the Spider Camera Plate v3.

The premium belt-mounted Suspension System v3 is crafted from durable precision metal with a luxurious and removable leather scuff pad, securing your camera while also protecting your clothing from wear caused by constant movement. The top of the Suspension System has an integrated quick disconnect socket which can be used with an optional Spider Shoulder Harness System to reduce the weight on your belt. The holster has two attachment modes for your camera: Auto-Lock Mode requires you to first lift a lever in order to remove your camera for added security. Alternatively, push the lever upward until it clicks into place and Quick-Draw Mode is engaged, allowing unobstructed quick-draw camera access.

The Spider Camera Plate v3 attaches to your camera via its 1/4"-20 tripod mount. Two stout pins made from CNC stainless steel are securely attached to the plate, and it's one of these pins which slides into the holster. The Camera Plate is compatible with mirrorless and DSLR cameras, with or without a battery grip. It's sized to still allow access to your camera's battery. Rubber pads ensure it won't twist or work loose from your camera, and there are small 'camera bumpers' that further prevent unwanted rotation on smaller camera bodies. The plate has an Arca-Swiss base, so can be clipped straight into an Arca-compatible tripod head; this part is even removable, so can be used as a standalone Arca tripod plate. Alternatively, if you need to connect to a non-Arca tripod, there are two 1/4"-20 mounting points where you can attach a proprietary QR plate to the Spider Camera Plate v3.

The SpiderPro Holster Set v3 is available now, with the leather scuff pad available in black or brown options, priced ay $169/£152.66.

If you'd like to try before you buy, the SpiderPro Holster Set v3 will be on display at the Photography and Video Show 2026, Stand G62, which takes place 14-17 March at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

With more than 15,000 members, SheClicks has become one of the most influential UK networks for female photographers and shooters who identify as women.

And the women-led photography community is returning to The Photography & Video Show 2026 – you can say hello at stand C66 or watch the SheClicks Awards live on March 14 from 14:00 on the Analogue Stage.

This year's stand is – again – a welcoming space for women to connect, ask questions, and feel part of something bigger.

A safe space in a big industry

Founded by photography journalist Angela Nicholson, SheClicks was created to offer something many women felt was missing: a friendly, supportive environment where photographers of all levels could share work, get technical advice, and celebrate achievements without judgment.

"Support is at the heart of SheClicks," says Nicholson. "It's about having a friendly space where you can ask questions without feeling that you shouldn't be asking them – and connecting with like-minded photographers."

The SheClicks stand acts as a meeting point: somewhere to pause, chat, and meet fellow photographers face-to-face.

Why to visit and join SheClicks at the show

1. A supportive space to ask anything

No question is "too basic." No achievement is "too small."

Members range from beginners to experienced photographers, with many who shoot regularly for pleasure, growth and creative expression.

At SheClicks, the atmosphere is built around encouragement, not ego. It's a space where curiosity is welcomed.

2. Useful advice from women

SheClick supports photographers across every genre – but what makes it different is perspective.

The technical advice shared is grounded in real-world use by women. It's about what works and not just what's trending.

3. Step outside your comfort zone

Growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.

SheClicks actively encourages members to enter competitions, submit images to magazines, or finally share their work more publicly.

Seeing other members stepping out of their comfort zone makes it less intimidating to try yourself.

4. Finding friends in the real-world

SheClicks began online, but it doesn't stay there.

The community organizes free meetups across the UK, from park photo walks to National Trust visits. There are also webinars, workshops and even international photography trips.

It's more than improving your photographic skills. It's about finding creative friendships.

5. Getting inspired through like-minded people

Photography is personal. It's how you see the world – being surrounded by people who understand that – who get excited about new ideas, composition, or light – is energizing.

The SheClicks experience is centered around photography, but the real magic often happens in conversations. Ideas spark. Confidence builds. Inspiration multiples.

For more information and inspiration, visit the SheClicks website.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Browse the best cameras for beginner and the best professional cameras.

The Photography & Video Show has always been a calendar highlight for photographers, but if you still think it’s just about mirrorless launches and lens announcements, 2026 is shaping up to prove otherwise.

One of the standout additions to this year’s program is a paid workshop led by Finnish director of photography Jenni Suitiala, and it firmly plants the show in serious filmmaking territory.

Suitiala is no armchair educator. She’s a working cinematographer who moves fluidly between documentary and narrative film, with credits spanning documentaries screened on Channel 4 and Sky, as well as feature films and high-end television lighting crews. Alongside her production work, she serves as a visiting tutor teaching lighting and cinematography at multiple universities and NFTS North, bringing real-world, on-set experience straight into the classroom. That blend of practical craft and academic rigor is exactly what makes this workshop one to watch.

At The Photography & Video Show 2026, Suitiala will host an exclusive session on March, 15 2026 from 11:00-12:30 in the Toute Suite (just outside the Hall 5 of the NEC, where the main show is taking place). 

This session which will focus on how to set up and light a master documentary interview. This isn’t theory-heavy fluff. It’s a practical, demonstrative workshop designed to show how a professional DP approaches shaping light, controlling contrast, and building mood in a documentary setting where time, space, and resources are often limited. For anyone who has ever struggled to make a talking head look cinematic rather than flat, this is the kind of session that can shift your entire approach.

What I particularly like about this addition is what it says about the direction of the show. Yes, there will be cameras, lenses, tripods, and all the kit we obsess over. But by platforming a working DP with credits across broadcast and film, The Photography & Video Show is making it clear that storytelling, lighting craft, and professional-level filmmaking are just as central to the event. It’s a reminder that the industry doesn’t stop at stills, and neither should we.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

If you’re planning to attend, it’s important to note that this is a paid workshop, costing £24. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for admission to The Photography & Video Show 2026, and then book your place separately on Suitiala’s workshop.

Spaces are limited, and sessions like this tend to fill quickly, especially when they promise hands-on insight you can immediately apply to your own work.

For filmmakers, hybrid shooters, and photographers who are increasingly stepping into motion, this feels like one of those quietly essential sessions.

A well-lit interview can elevate a documentary from competent to compelling. Learning how a seasoned DP builds that look, step by step, is the kind of investment that pays off long after the show floor lights dim.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

You can book for additional workshops and photo walks using this link.

Following a career in the software industry, Nick became a photographer and launched the Nick Church Creative Academy, which offers a range of online courses plus 1:1 coaching sessions with Nick himself.

Whether you want to learn or enhance photography and editing skills, boost your creativity or turn photography into a thriving business, Nick can help.

Nick will be giving two talks at The Photography & Video Show: 'Nail Your Exposure in Manual Mode'; and 'Da Vinci got it wrong! The Histogram Myth.'

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

See Nick Church's talks at The Photography & Video Show

'Nail Your Exposure in Manual Mode' with Nick Church takes place on Saturday March 14, 3.30-3.50pm, on the Fundamentals Stage.

'Da Vinci got it wrong! The Histogram Myth' with Nick Church takes place on Sunday 15 March, 4-4.30pm, on the Fundamentals Stage.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

Hailing from Norway but now based in Perthshire, Scotland, Espen Helland is a wildlife and conservation photographer and videographer.

With an MSc in Wildlife and Conservation, Espen spent five years working as an ecologist in Scotland and uses his camera as a tool for conservation, sharing its incredible wildlife through photos and videos. You can find him on YouTube and he also runs in-person workshops.

His talk at The Photography & Video Show 2026, taking place on March 15 at the NEC in Birmingham in the UK, is titled 'From Mountains to the Sea: How we Photograph Nature Matters' and is presented by OM System.

Espen sat down with me for a quick Q&A ahead of his presentation.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

See Espen Helland speak at The Photography & Video Show

'From Mountains to the Sea: How we Photograph Nature Matters' with Espen Helland is brought to you by OM System and takes place on Sunday March 15 at 11.50am-12.20pm at the Behind the Lens Theatre.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

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Take a look at the best cameras for wildlife photography, as well as the best lenses for bird photography and wildlife.

The SheClicks Awards return this year – and the winners will once again be revealed at The Photography & Video Show in Birmingham. And you can join in!

These awards are refreshingly different: a celebration of the cameras, lenses, accessories and services that women photographers genuinely value.

Founded by photography journalist Angela Nicholson, SheClicks has grown into one of the UK's most influential communities for female photographers. And its annual awards reflect the same core mission: support, visibility and recognition.

In an industry where award panels have traditionally been male-dominated, the SheClicks Awards offer a perspective shaped by women behind the camera.

"The SheClicks Awards highlight the equipment that excites female photographers in real-world experience," says Nicholson. "We award the gear that some SheClickers love using every day, while other women in the group aspire to own it."

Categories range across cameras, lenses, accessories and more, for example, the Enthusiast Camera of the Year – an interesting segment for Nicholson and the 15,000+ strong SheClicks community.

"Categories like Enthusiast Camera of the Year are always closely watched," Nicholson says. "They represent real-world aspirations."

Community-led recognition

Two of the most meaningful awards – the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Customer Service Award – are decided by a group-wide vote.

The Outstanding Achievement Award honors women photographers whose work and influence have made a lasting impact.

The Customer Service Award recognizes retailers and service providers that go above and beyond. While industry standards have improved significantly, the category acknowledges the importance of positive, knowledgeable experiences for women in camera stores and service environments.

"That recognition is important," Nicholson notes. "We want to celebrate the businesses that are genuinely supportive."

Spotlight Award: Championing emerging Talent

Introduced last year, the Spotlight Award was created to broaden visibility and encourage diversity.

"We realized that when awards are purely popularity-driven, it's often the big, established names who receive the most votes," Nicholson explains. "The Spotlight Award allows us to recognize inspiring photographers earlier in their careers – or those with under-recognized talent doing exciting, distinctive work."

SheClicks at The Photography & Video Show

The SheClicks Awards presentation at The Photography & Video Show promises to be a highlight – celebrating not only standout kit, but the strength of community behind it.

If you're attending the show this year, make sure to catch the announcement. You can find more information on the SheClicks website.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Browse the best cameras for beginner and the best professional cameras.

An award-winning equine and abstract photographer, Carys travels to countries including Austria, France, Iceland, Portugal, The Netherlands and Norway to seek out horses in their native environments and intriguing landscapes.

Having combined her twin passions of horses and photography into a successful career, Carys uses a range of in-camera techniques including long exposures and intentional camera movement to create striking fine-art images.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

See Carys Jones speak at The Photography & Video Show 2026

'The Horse In Motion: The art of creative equine photography' with Carys Jones takes place on Saturday March 14, 2-2.30pm, in the Behind the Lens Theatre.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

Film photography is far from obsolete – and Mandy Izquierdo (aka Mandyleft) shows how to master it today.

The professional film photographer specializes in demanding genres like fashion and documentary. At The Photography & Video Show 2026, she will lead two sessions on the professional use of film, sharing workflows, equipment choices, film stocks, processing techniques, and scanning methods.

"I'll explain workflows and options, and answer practical questions about using film for professional projects," she says – a must-attend for photographers wanting to bring film into their modern workflow.

Mandy Izquierdo's talks

1) Building a film workflow that works for clients
Monday March 16 2026 – 15:00 - 15:30 – Analogue Stage

In this session, Mandy will take you through the complete process of using film for professional work. She'll cover how to choose the right camera format and film stock for a specific job, plan and budget for film shoots, and manage the process from exposure to delivery.

She'll also show different options for processing, scanning and editing, giving insight on choosing the workflow that best suits your needs.

2) How a collective can take your film photography further
Tuesday March 17 2026 – 14:00 - 14:30 – Analogue Stage

Would you like to help shape the future of film photography? In this session, Mandy will share the story of the community she founded - OnlyFilms.

From its beginnings as a small group of film photographers, Mandy will discuss how it has grown into a space for collaboration, events, podcasts and dialogue around analogue photography.

Sharing her vision for where OnlyFilms is going, from learning and sharing to professional development, Mandy will invite you to join her, and discover how collaboration can strengthen your creative voice, and offer a rich source of contacts and opportunities.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

Gear + Insights

I don't use digital cameras in my photographic work, although I have recently purchased a digital camera specifically for scanning film, trying it as an alternative to flatbed scanning.

I develop and scan my black and white film myself, and I spend a lot of time printing in the darkroom, which is a very important part of my practice.

The cameras I use most are the Rolleiflex 2.8, Canon EOS-1V, and Pentax 6×7, although I also work with 4×5 using my Zone VI large format camera.

I'm also a bit of a camera collector and enjoy learning through experimenting with different film cameras.

In terms of contemporary tools, I work with studio flash and also enjoy shooting Polaroid and Instax, which I actively use in my projects.

I regularly organise exhibitions to show and share my work, and I have experience leading community photography projects, as well as organising and delivering workshops and events for film photographers.

I am currently organising an event for filmmakers and film photographers in collaboration with The Garden Cinema in London, which will take place on February 20.

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Browse the best film cameras, the best 35mm film, roll film, and sheet film, and the best film scanners.

Astrophotography pushes both camera gear and technique to the limit. From battling light pollution to mastering long exposures and working with specialist equipment, making the sky's beauty visible takes patience, precision, and the right tools.

If you're interested in astrophotography, chances are you've already come across the work of Josh Dury. The award-winning astrophotographer is known for his mesmerising night sky images – and he's also the best-selling author of 52 Assignments Night Photography – a practical guide for mastering low-light and after-dark shooting.

Ahead of his upcoming talk at The Photography & Video Show 2026, Dury offered a look inside his kitbag – revealing the camera, lenses, and astro photography gear he trusts to bring his creative vision to life.

From specialist equipment to the techniques that make deep-sky detail possible, here's what powers one of the UK's leading night sky photographers.

Josh Dury's Talk

Sustainable approaches for astrophotography
Tuesday March 17 2026 – 10:30 - 11:00 – Behind the Lens Theatre

As astrophotography grows in popularity and more of us turn our cameras to the skies, there is a growing demand and pressure for our 'dark-sky' places.

Astro expert Josh will uncover the inherent challenges of capturing the night skies, and discuss how photographers can promote positive stewardship at popular locations, limit light pollution, and protect nocturnal species.

Also looking at how we can identify new images and avoid repeated content when pitching to potential clients, Josh will contemplate the present and future of astrophotography, while encouraging us all to expand our horizons.

Find more information on The Photography & Video Show website

Pro Gear + techniques

Dury's astro setup

1. Camera
My preferred camera of choice is the Sony A7s III – it's best suited to low-light environments and a powerhouse.

With increased Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), images taken in low light environments appear cleaner and more defined with minimal image artefacts and noise (*dependent on value that is selected).

2. Lens
Sigma 14mm F/1.4 DG DN boasts f/1.4 capability at 14mm, is not only a wide-angle lens, the light gathering capability is staggering.

With greater light entering the camera to the sensor, exposures that were typically being achieved with a f/2.8 lens by comparison take half the time, even seconds to utilise.

3. Specialist tool: Sky-watcher Star Adventurer
For utilising long exposures, the Skywatcher Star Adventurer is a fantastic star tracker to use. It requires more components to operate, but the tracking – when set up correctly – allows for lengthy exposures.

A sleek, stylish design coupled with a heavier payload makes for a user-friendly interface when dealing with more complex photographic techniques.

The Starman's favorite technique

It's a difficult one to answer, as I like to experiment with multiple methods.

One that catches my attention is long exposure; revealing celestial attractions in the night-sky that are not visible to the human eye.

Opening up the interesting question is what else is there for us to see amongst the stars?

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Browse the best cameras for astrophotography, the best lenses for astrophotography, and the best star tracker camera mounts for astrophotography.

In macro photography, one of the biggest challenges in learning how to control focus at extreme magnifications. With depth of field measured in millimeters, even the most mesmerising subjects can quickly fall apart without the right technique.

That's exactly why professional macro photographer and educator Stewart Wood believes understanding focus stacking is a game-changer for anyone serious about shooting the tiny word.

Best known for his striking images of insects and spiders, Wood has built a loyal following by breaking down complex techniques into practical, real-world advice.

Ahead of his upcoming talk at The Photography & Video Show 2025, he shares his top tips for creating macro images with real impact. So, let's dive into his expert insights before seeing Wood live on stage this May.

Stewart Wood's talk

An introduction to focus stacking
Sunday March 15 2026 – 10:30am – Fundamentals Stage

Do you struggle with shallow depth of field when working at high magnifications? You're not alone! Stewart will show you how to transform your results using focus stacking. You'll walk away with the knowledge to apply immediately, ready to capture stunning macro shots, and unlock a whole new level of creativity.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

3 Top Tips

Tip 1: Use focus stacking to get more depth of field

In macro photography, one of the first surprises is how little is actually in focus. Even at smaller apertures, you might only get the eyes sharp, while the legs or body blur away. That's where focus stacking comes in.

Focus stacking is simply taking a series of photos where the focus point moves slightly each time, from the front of the subject to the back. You then combine those images into one final photo so more of the subject looks sharp. It's like building a photo out of multiple "slices" of focus.

This is especially useful for small subjects with lots of detail, like jumping spiders, beetles, and butterflies. Instead of choosing between sharp eyes or sharp wings, stacking lets you keep both.

The trick is to start simple. Pick a subject that isn't moving much, use a steady setup, and take a short stack first. Once you see how much extra detail you can keep in focus, focus stacking becomes a tool you'll reach for again and again, not to make things complicated, but to make your macro photos look the way your eyes remember them.

Tip 2: Stack when nature slows down (early morning and night)

If you want better focus stacks, the biggest upgrade often isn't new gear, it's shooting at the right time.

For live subjects like insects and spiders, early morning or night is usually best. When it's cooler, they tend to move much less. And when they move less between photos, your stack comes out cleaner, sharper, and easier to merge.

Early morning is great. Many insects are still "waking up", which gives you a little more time to capture the full set of shots. You might even get dew, which can look amazing, just watch out for droplets on eyes or fine hairs if you want a super-clean portrait.

At night, you get even more control. You can take your time finding a subject, use a torch to help you frame the shot, and then use flash as your main light so every frame looks consistent. If your stacks keep going wrong in the daytime, try changing when you shoot, it can make a bigger difference than changing any camera setting.

Tip 3: Speed wins (FPS beats perfection)

In focus stacking, your biggest enemy is time. Subjects twitch, legs shift, wind moves leaves and every extra second increases the chance your stack falls apart.

That's why I prioritize capturing the full stack quickly: the faster you complete it, the fewer alignment problems you’ll have later. Think of stacking like action photography, you're freezing a sequence, not crafting a single frame.

A practical way to improve your hit rate is to optimise for frames per second and consistency. Use a high-speed continuous mode and keep your exposure repeatable.

If you’re using flash (which I recommend for reliable, sharp images), switch it to manual and set it up to recycle fast, often that means lower power (for example 1/32 or below, depending on your diffuser and distance). Then use ISO to fine-tune exposure rather than pushing flash power so high that it can't keep up with your burst.

And don't be precious: take the stack, then take it again. Two quick attempts often beat one "perfect" attempt that fails because the subject moved halfway through.

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Camera trade shows seem like a boring option, with little to no hope of making any difference to your photography. But yet every year I fly to the UK from Ireland for The Photography & Video Show, whether in Birmingham or London, because attending does make a difference. That’s despite the combined cost of the flight, the hotel, food, and the missed days where I could be working. 

Bizarrely, there are plenty of pro photographers living within an hour of an annual tradeshow that wouldn’t consider going. Here's why they're missing out - and why trade shows deserve a place in your photography life.

Networking That Actually Matters

Online communities are grand, but there's something about face-to-face conversation with other photographers that cuts through the noise. At trade shows, I've had genuinely useful chats with working pros about real business challenges - pricing structures, difficult clients, equipment choices for specific jobs. The kind of honest conversations that don't happen in Facebook groups where everyone's performing for an audience. 

Last year, I had a 40-minute-long chat with Joel Grimes, one of my lighting heroes, talking about teaching, email lists, and camera gear. He had no idea who I was; I was just another photographer chatting beside a stand he was keen to look at. You can’t pay for that, or at least not for the price of going to a tradeshow. 

You'll also have the chance to meet editors, manufacturers, and potential collaborators. I've had article commissions come from casual conversations at trade show stands. These connections are worth more than the price of attending the show. There’s also usually a special aftershow pro meetups where you can rub shoulders with the best in the business. 

Hands-On Time With Gear You'd Never Otherwise Try

Reviews and YouTube videos are useful, but five minutes actually holding a camera tells you more than an hour of spec-sheet analysis. Want to know if that lens is too heavy for all-day wedding work? If that camera's menu system will drive you mad? Handle it yourself.

Trade shows let you test everything from flagship bodies to niche specialist kit. I've ruled out purchases that looked perfect on paper and discovered unexpected gems I'd never have considered. That alone has saved me thousands in buyer's remorse. You can, of course, make impulse decisions that are wrong too, but that can happen at home too. I’ve also been given equipment to try at show, and seen gear that solved an issue I was having without knowing there was a solution.

Inspiration Beyond Your Bubble

When you're grinding through your photo work, it's easy to get stuck in your lane. Trade shows expose you to different genres, techniques, and approaches. Seminar programmes bring in photographers whose work you admire, talking candidly about their process and business.

Even wandering the aisles having chats with exhibitors can shake loose creative ideas. Seeing what's possible - new lighting modifiers, emerging technologies, different ways of working - keeps you from going stale.

Learning That's Actually Practical

Forget three-hour online courses you'll never finish, or that you bought on sale and never looked at. Trade show seminars are concentrated, topic-specific, and taught by working professionals. You get real-world advice, not theoretical waffle. And because you're there in person, you can ask the awkward follow-up questions that actually matter to you and your photography..

Talk schedules cover everything from business fundamentals to advanced lighting techniques. Even if only one session genuinely clicks, that's a technique or insight you're taking home immediately.

Make It a Proper Trip

You're already paying for travel and accommodation - make it work harder. Book a model for an evening shoot and explore the city with your camera.  From London's architecture to Birmingham's canals, you have a different light and different energy from your usual stomping grounds. Fresh locations push you creatively and give you new portfolio work that stands out from your local crowd.

I've shot street photography in unfamiliar cities, tested new techniques with local models, and come home with images that I’m proud of, and have used for portfolio and education. The trade show justifies the expense; the extra shooting day makes it genuinely worthwhile.

Yes, there's a cost – ticket, travel, accommodation, time away from work. But compare that to a single weekend workshop (easily $700/£500+ for me) or a piece of kit you buy blind and end up selling at a loss. Trade shows offer concentrated value that's hard to match elsewhere.

For photographers outside major cities, this is your chance to access resources that urban shooters take for granted. The expertise, equipment, and connections are all in one place for a few days. Use it.

The Final Facts

You won't revolutionize your photography in a single day at a trade show. But the cumulative effect - new connections, hands-on gear experience, fresh inspiration, practical advice - compounds over time. The photographers who consistently show up to these events aren't the ones struggling in isolation.

Trade shows aren't just for gear enthusiasts - they're professional development that actually moves the needle. Book the ticket… and I'll see you there!

Photographers have less than two weeks remaining to submit work to the London Camera Exchange Photographer of the Year 2026 contest, with entries closing at midnight on January 21. The competition, now in its third year, has a £10,000 (approximately £13,400 / AU$20,000) prize fund and is free to enter for photographers of any experience level.

The contest has grown significantly since its 2024 launch, when it attracted over 13,000 entries. This year's event features 14 categories spanning wildlife, landscape, portrait, street and specialist genres including an 'Emerging Talent' category specifically for photography students. 

And it's well worth entering. The overall winner receives £2,500 ($3,400 / AU$5,000) in LCE vouchers alongside a trophy, while all category winners share the total prize fund. Plus, beyond the financial compensation, shortlisted photographers will see their work displayed at The Photography & Video Show at the NEC Birmingham in England in March 2026, and published in a commemorative book.

Judges' advice

The judging panel has offered practical guidance for photographers considering entry. Angela Nicholson, founder of SheClicks and an experienced photography journalist, emphasizes authenticity over technical perfection.

"As a judge, I'm drawn to images that reflect the photographer's interpretation of a scene and their connection with the subject," she explains. "I'm looking for a creative vision, thoughtful use of light, technique and composition, and photographs that feel personal, expressive and intentional."

Portrait and travel documentary photographer Jimmy Cheng takes a similar approach. "Aside from technical brilliance, I will be looking for images that express emotions and creative presentation," he notes, suggesting that powerful storytelling can trump pixel-peeping.

Lee Harasyn, managing director of LCE, echoes this emphasis on a balance between craft and impact.

"I'm naturally drawn to great technique, but sometimes a photographer can capture an image so powerful that this becomes irrelevant," he says. "The best photos connect with the viewer – and that's what I'm hoping to find."

How to enter

Entries can be submitted online at poty.lcegroup.co.uk or in person at any of London Camera Exchange's 26 stores across the United Kingdom. While photographers worldwide can enter, prizes are only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. Full terms, conditions and store locations are available on the LCE website.

With the clock ticking down to the January 21 deadline, now's the time to review your portfolios and select your strongest work. The advice from the judging panel is clear: prioritize images that communicate something meaningful, whether through exceptional technique, emotional resonance, or a fresh perspective on familiar subjects.

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Take a look at the best cameras for portraits and the best cameras for wildlife photography, and check out our photography tips to help you snag an award winner!

Update: if you're in the UK and want to experience the Wescott FJ250 strobe first-hand, you'll find it on display at The Photography and Video Show 2026 , held 14-17 March at the NEC, Birmingham.

Wescott’s newest strobe light packs 850 full-power flashes into one charge – yet it’s also one of the lightest lights in the series. This week, Wescott unveiled the FJ250 250Ws Touchscreen strobe, a mid-tier light geared for on-location lighting as well as accent, rim, hair, and backlighting multi-light studio setup.

The FJ250 Touschreen Strobe is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive in the series, sitting at about $400 / £449. But while the 250Ws light may not pack quite as much power as the series’ 400Ws and 800Ws options, Westcott says the light still boasts industry-leading recycle times between .01 and .9 seconds.

The light’s 850-shot battery life is also the best out of the FJ series, with the battery pack also being compatible with the FJ400 II and FJ800. High-speed sync is included, and the strobe also has a Freeze Mode, which handles up to 50 fps bursts. Additional high-end shooting options include Creative Masks, which allows photographers to pre-program up to six multi-light combinations to shoot in a row.

Those settings are controlled with a full-color OLED touchscreen, while the light is compatible with all FJ series wireless triggers.

The new strobe option is also the lighter choice among the series, weighing about 4.2 pounds / 1.9 kg.

The strobe uses a native Bowens mount for modifiers and also has a 12W bi-color modeling light for previewing light placement.

The Wescott FJ250 is available in single or two-light kits at B&H.

• The Photography & Video Show 2026: everything you need to know
• Get 20% off tickets of your tickets with our exclusive money-saving code!

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Tickets for the most exciting photography event of the year are now on sale. The Photography & Video Show 2026 kicks off at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, on Saturday, March 14, and runs right through to Tuesday, March 17, 2026. If you book in advance, you can save 20% using discount code DCW26.

It’s the UK’s leading event for visual storytellers, boasting over 500+ talks and live demos, opportunities to get hands-on with the latest kit from the biggest imaging brands, and access to a plethora of exclusive show-day deals. Standard entry starts at £15.95, while students can attend for FREE on designated days.

The Photography & Video Show: Tickets

General entry:

Standard - £18.95 for any single day (save 20% using code DCW26, if you book in advance)
Concession (Aged 60+, disabled, and students aged 18+ (Saturday and Sunday) - £15.95 for any single day (save 20% using code DCW26, if you book in advance)
Multiple days are charged at 50% discount for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th day visit.

A booking fee of £1.50 per transaction will apply.

Professional / Trade entry:

Professional photographers, filmmakers, content creators, and image-making industry representatives can apply for FREE entry to the show. All applications are verified, as it is essential for us to understand our visiting audience and tailor the show content appropriately. Find out more here

Students:

Students can attend FREE on Monday, 16 March and Tuesday, 17 March. Find out more here

The four-day photography-themed bonanza will feature exclusive show deals from two of the biggest UK camera retailers: London Camera Exchange and Wex Photo Video, and will yet again host the industry’s biggest brands, including Adobe, Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, OM System, Sigma, Sony, and many more. And of course, you can always stop by the Digital Camera World stand (E142) to chat to the team and take advantage of the magazine's exclusive show-day subscription plan.

The bustling Photography & Video Show floor isn’t just about exclusive deals and the industry’s biggest brands showing off their latest tech. It’s also a space for creatives to draw inspiration and get insider tips from some of the busiest working photographers and videographers in the biz.

Already, a roster of nearly 30 speakers has been confirmed, with more names to be added and headline speaker announcements to be made in due course. As always, talks will be held on a variety of stages dotted throughout the hall, covering the width and breadth of the imaging spectrum. So, whether you’re into landscapes, wildlife, street, or portraits, you’re covered.

Tickets to the Photography & Video Show also grant you access to CreatorCon, a space where pros, aspiring creators, and everybody are welcome to get hands-on within the Creator Playground, and visit the Creator Stage to pick up insider tips and advice on creating content, visual storytelling, and finding your niche. If you’re an aspiring content creator, make sure you stop by.

If you simply cannot wait for March 14, you can get a little taste of what the show is all about by tuning into the Photography & Video Show Podcast, hosted by David McClelland, and released on the first Thursday of every month.

Meanwhile, pick up your tickets today, and I’ll see you at Birmingham’s NEC from March 14 to 17!

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London Camera Exchange has officially opened entries for the 2026 LCE Photographer of the Year competition; now in its third year, it is open to photographers of all experience levels. Submissions can be made online or in person across any of the retailer’s 26 stores nationwide, with the contest remaining free to enter.

The competition features 14 diverse categories: Action, After Dark, Birds, Creative, Emerging Talent, Events, Landscape, Macro, People’s Choice, Pets, Portrait, Street, Travel, and Wildlife, each offering photographers a chance to showcase their work across a wide range of subjects.

The Emerging Talent category, introduced last year to support students, returns for 2026, awarding £500 ($665) to both the winning student and their university or course.

The contest is backed by major brands, including Canon, Fujifilm, and OM System, with partners such as Lexar, Nikon, and Sony, and affiliates Cewe and Sigma.

Judges for this year include Angela Nicholson, founder of SheClicks, Chris George, content director at Future Publishing, and Jimmy Cheng, professional portrait and travel documentary photographer.

All shortlisted photographers will be invited to an awards ceremony at The Photography & Video Show at the NEC, Birmingham, from March 14-17 2026. Their winning and shortlisted work will be displayed in a dedicated exhibition space at the event and featured in a commemorative photo book.

Lee Harasyn, managing director of London Camera Exchange, said, "The competition has exceeded all expectations over the last two years, and we are excited to host it again for our 70th anniversary year in 2026. We hope to discover more extraordinary talent and showcase outstanding photography to a wider audience. We are looking forward to seeing the diversity and creativity of submissions this year across a wide range of genres."

The overall winner will receive £2,500 ($3,335) in LCE vouchers to spend on equipment of their choice, with all category winners receiving a share of the £10,000 ($13,335) prize fund and a bespoke trophy.

Entries close at midnight on January 21 2026. Full details, rules, and entry links can be found on the official competition website.

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The Photography & Video Show (TPVS, to its friends) is returning to its spiritual home this year at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK from tomorrow. The Show runs for four days from Saturday, March 14 to Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The packed four-day event will feature over 500+ talks and live demos at no additional charge, the opportunity to get hands-on with the latest kit from the biggest brands in the biz, not to mention exclusive access to show-day deals.

Scroll down for further information and know that I’ll be keeping this page updated as and when new details emerge, right up until the first day of the show. Whether you’re a prospective exhibitor, professional creative, photography or video enthusiast, or a complete beginner developing an interest in the imaging industry, if you’re available any day from March 14-17 and can make it to Birmingham’s NEC, you won’t want to miss out!

Above: Highlights from first day of The Photography & Video Show 2026

The Photography & Video Show: Tickets

Entry prices

Standard – £24 for any single day - online or on the door.

Concessions – £21 for any single day.

Children – children under 18s go FREE, but a ticket is required for those aged 5-17

Multiple-day discount – Multiple days are charged at 50% discount for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th day visit.

Students – Students can attend FREE on Monday, 16 March and Tuesday, 17 March. Find out more here. Entry for students on Saturday and Sunday is charged at the Concesssions rate of £21.

A booking fee of £1.50 per transaction will apply.

The Photography & Video Show: FAQs

• When: Saturday-Tuesday March 14-17, 2026
• Where: Hall 5, National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK
• Show program: Free printed show guide for all visitors, collect at entrance
• Times: 10:00 until 17:00 each day
• Travel by train: the exhibition is a short covered walk from Birmingham International railway station
• Travel by plane: there is a free Air-Link monorail that links Bimingham International airport to the NEC halls
• Travel by car: there is extensive car parking available at the NEC, with a bus service to the halls. Pre-pay for parking online before the day of your visit and save £5. Use the postcode B40 1NT in your satnav.
• Children: under 18s go FREE, but a ticket is required for those aged 5-17
• Information: For further information on accessibility, food, Wi-Fi access, travel, and more, please visit the TPVS website

The Photography & Video Show: Brands & retailers

If you’re on the hunt for a new (or used) camera, have got your eye on a particular lens, are still looking for the perfect camera bag, or are finally wanting to invest in a decent tripod, the Photography & Video Show provides you access to a plethora of brands and retailers, all under one roof.

That includes many of the biggest names in the business, including Adobe, Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, OM System, Pentax, Sigma, Sony, and many more. I can’t think of a better place to try before you buy!

Better yet, if you find something you like, you’ll have two of the UK’s largest camera retailers on hand, Wex Photo Video and London Camera Exchange (LCE), to boot!

You can find a comprehensive list of the confirmed brands and exhibitors here, with more yet to be revealed.

The Photography & Video Show 2026: The stages

Analogue Stage
A celebration of the art of traditional film photography and the darkroom, this is the place to learn about a variety of analog techniques and processes (both stills and cine), with insights into projects about non-digital applications, along with interactive. demos. Sponsored by AG Photolab.

Photo Live
This live-action, tethered-shooting stage will have practical demos on subjects such as lighting, posing, working with models, and capturing movement. Sponsored by Capture One.

Editing & Post-Production Suite
This is the place to learn about all aspects of image editing and post-production, with a series of seminars covering workflow tips and techniques for both stills and video, across a variety of software applications. Sponsored by MPB.

Behind the Lens Theatre
This stage, sponsored by Hahnemühle Fine Art, offers insight into the techniques and stories behind images and projects, as well as inspirational sessions from world-class imaging educators in a series of talks and interviews.

Fundamentals Stage
We have replaced the separate paid-for 'beginner', 'turning pro' and 'pro' masterclasses with free show-floor content, offering a range of talks to build the foundations that you need to continue your creative journey. Sponsored by Shimoda, Tenba & Benro.

In Motion Studio
A theatre for all things moving image, this is designed to offer insight into producing engaging content, storytelling, and creating projects using different video and filmmaking techniques, no matter what your level.

Creator Stage
This program is dedicated to online content creation on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and more. Aimed both at existing and budding creators, as well as photo and video pros looking to boost their business via social channels, this stage will have talks on everything from online community building to getting started in vlogging.

Creator Playground
With a series of sets and studios, this is the place to have fun, let your imagination run riot, and create your own content!

The Photography & Video Show: Speakers

The Photography & Video Show isn’t just about the latest camera tech and gear acquisition; it also provides incredible access to a huge variety of live talks, panels, demos, and Q&As, so you can get inspired and take your photography to the next level.

Over 130 speakers have already been confirmed, with more on the way, covering a wide variety of styles and genres. Whether you’re into landscapes, wildlife, portraits, weddings, drones, content creation, social media, or video, there’s something for you.

Notable names on this year's list include American fashion photographer Lindsay Adler, street photography ace Adam Schaller, and veteran landscape photographer Charlie Waite. You can peruse the full list of confirmed speakers here.

Visit Digital Camera World (stand F45)

Whether you’re an avid reader of the UK’s best-selling photography magazine, Digital Camera World, or a regular on the Digital Camera World website, why not stop by stand (F45) to take out a subscription with a free special bonus gift, or simply chat to members of the team?

About the Photography & Video Show

The Photography & Video Show first launched in 2014 at the NEC, where it ran annually until 2024 (with a gap during the COVID years). Last year, it was held in the ExCel Center, London, for the first time, and going forward, it will alternate between Birmingham and London – and so is back at the NEC for 2026.

If you head over to the TPVS website, you can purchase tickets, be kept abreast of the latest developments, and even book a stand.

One thing I can say for sure is that it's going to be an unmissable event if you're even the slightest bit interested in photography. I look forward to seeing you there!

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The world of fine art printing has always been a pursuit of depth, tonality, and longevity. For decades, silver gelatin prints have been the gold standard for black and white photography, prized for their rich contrast, deep blacks, and almost ethereal glow in the highlights.

Yet, as digital photography has evolved, so too have the materials we use to produce prints. Enter Hahnemühle's Photo Rag Metallic — a paper that may very well define the next era of fine art printing. With its high-gloss metallic finish and 100% cotton base, it offers a unique fusion of tradition and innovation, delivering an aesthetic that echoes the best qualities of silver gelatin while adding a contemporary twist.

For black and white photography, this paper is nothing short of a revelation. The metallic sheen subtly amplifies tonal transitions, allowing highlights to shimmer without losing detail. Deep blacks retain their richness, standing out against the reflective surface to create a sense of depth that traditional matte fine art papers often struggle to achieve.

Much like a silver gelatin print under a gallery spotlight, Photo Rag Metallic reacts beautifully to lighting conditions, allowing photographers to craft images that feel almost luminous. It is, in many ways, a modern take on a classic process—one that does not seek to replace the past but rather reinterpret it through new technology.

Beyond black and white, the paper’s ability to enhance color photography is equally compelling. The metallic sheen adds an almost three-dimensional quality to vibrant hues, making it particularly effective for images that rely on bold contrast or striking detail. Skin tones remain natural yet luminous, water reflections seem to shimmer, and chrome or metallic surfaces in a scene take on an almost tangible presence. This is a paper that does not simply display an image but interacts with it, elevating photographs from flat reproductions to dynamic, eye-catching works of art.

What sets Photo Rag Metallic apart is its ability to maintain a fine balance between archival quality and contemporary visual appeal. Unlike many glossy or metallic papers, which can sometimes feel synthetic or overly processed, this stock retains the soft, tactile presence of a true fine art print. It remains acid- and lignin-free, ensuring longevity without sacrificing visual impact. This makes it an excellent choice for gallery exhibitions, collectors, and photographers who want to push their work beyond traditional paper stocks without losing the integrity of the printed image.

The question then arises: Could this be the silver gelatin of the digital age? While no paper can truly replicate the chemical magic of darkroom printing, Hahnemühle's Photo Rag Metallic offers something that feels equally transformative. It merges the best of both worlds — the archival qualities of fine art cotton paper with a finish that recalls the depth and luminosity of silver gelatin.

For those who once relied on the magic of film but have since embraced digital processes, this paper provides a bridge between the past and the future, keeping the spirit of classic printing alive in a new and exciting way.

Photography has always been about evolution — of techniques, of tools, and of presentation. Just as silver gelatin revolutionized black and white printing in its time, Hahnemühle’s Photo Rag Metallic has the potential to redefine how photographers approach their final prints.

Whether used for monochrome masterpieces or vivid color compositions, this paper challenges the boundaries of traditional printing, proving that the future of photography does not have to abandon its roots to forge something new.

Check out some of the other best photo papers for inkjet printers, and the best photo printers

Sigma is making waves right now, largely thanks to its sleek new Sigma BF camera, but there’s another recent announcement that deserves just as much, if not more, attention.

Unveiled alongside the BF, the Sigma 300-600mm f/4 DG OS Sports is a lens that could quickly become a go-to for sports and wildlife photographers. Having spent some time with it at The Photography & Video Show 2025, I was amazed by its thoughtful design and considered features.

For years, Sigma was a leader in ultra-telephoto zooms, particularly in the DSLR era, with lenses like the 120-300mm f/2.8 and 150-600mm becoming trusted tools for professionals and enthusiasts alike. However, the transition to mirrorless camera systems left a noticeable gap – until now.

The 300-600mm f/4 DG OS Sports lens demonstrates Sigma's modern engineering and new visual identity and ethos. It offers users an exceptional combination of reach, speed and affordability, and marks a return to Sigma's strengths – and may be just what many photographers have been waiting for.

One of the most exciting aspects of this lens is its optical quality. With 28 elements in 21 groups, including 6 FLD and 1 SLD elements, Sigma promises prime-like sharpness throughout the zoom range. The constant f/4 aperture across the full 300-600mm reach is a significant advantage over many competing zooms, enabling better low-light performance and improved subject isolation.

Autofocus is another area where Sigma has made major strides, with a high-speed AF system and a powerful optical stabilization function (driven by the OS2 algorithm) ensuring that fast-moving subjects, whether a sprinting cheetah or a flying bird, are captured with precision.

Despite its size, the lens feels lighter than expected. At just under 4kg it’s a substantial piece of glass, but with stabilization it’s surprisingly manageable handheld for short bursts. That makes it an interesting option for wildlife photographers who don’t always want to be locked to a monopod or gimbal. Sigma has also added a power zoom function, which will appeal to videographers and those shooting fast-paced action, making zooming smoother and more controlled than a traditional manual ring.

The attention to detail in the design is impressive. A drop-in filter holder is a welcome addition, and Sigma has confirmed that it will be making dedicated filters specifically for this lens. A new function ring adds extended customization, while the durable, weather-sealed construction makes it well-equipped for fieldwork in tough conditions. There’s even thermal insulation paint to help maintain optimal performance in extreme temperatures.

Perhaps the most compelling reason wildlife photographers should be paying attention is the price. At $5,999 / £5,899 / AU$12,999, this lens costs a fraction of the price of comparable native options. For reference, Sony 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS and 600mm f/4 GM OSS lenses are among the best in the world, but they each cost over £10,000 / $12,000 / AU$15,000. The Sigma 300-600mm f/4 could deliver similar reach and quality at a significantly lower price, making it an incredible value for photographers who need reach, speed, and reliability without a five-figure investment.

With the 300-600mm f/4 DG OS Sports, Sigma has reasserted itself as a major player in the world of super-telephoto zooms. This lens delivers prime-like image quality, fast autofocus, and strong stabilization, all in a package that is far more affordable than native alternatives.

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The winner of the first-ever CEWE Student Photography Award has been announced live at the The Photography & Videography Show. More than 700 images were submitted by students from all across the UK, but there could only be one winner, and that was Flora Tomlinson-Pilley with her beautiful monochrome abstract of a dolphin just about to break the surface of the ocean.

The award was presented by professional music photographer Christie Goodwin, one of the panel of judges for the competition, at CEWE's stand on the final day of the show. The winning image forms part of a gallery of ten shortlisted images that were displayed on CEWE's stand at the show in a specialist photo mount specifically chosen to bring out the best of each shot. In Flora's case, it was mounted on aluminum dibond, its metallic finish complementing the monochromatic tones of the photograph.

The CEWE Student Photography Award is a free-to-enter competition that is open to all UK students with a love of photography. It was launched in 2024, inviting students aged 16-plus in full-time education to enter photos that celebrate the earth’s beauty, and has a prize pool worth more than £5,000 ($6,500/AU$10,300) on offer.

Flora explained that she entered the competition after seeing posters up at Falmouth University, where she is in her third year studying Marine and Natural History Photography. Her image, The Perfect Moment, is of a dolphin she photographed just below the surface of the water while on a boat trip as part of her course. "The sea was glass-flat and there were dolphins everywhere," she explained. "They were all along the side of the boat and I just kept shooting and shooting until I got one just about to break the water tension."

For her first prize-placed image, Flora was awarded a Fujifilm X-T30 II camera with accessories and her images will also be featured in a solo exhibition, with full support and mentoring from leading photo printing company CEWE, a CEWE PHOTOBOOK, and exclusive work experience with the CEWE Photo Team in Oldenburg, Germany.

The second prize went to Kayla Merkus for her image Searching for the Oldies, juxtaposing a classic car with its bonnet open on a busy high street, while third prize went to Hannah Mittelstaedt for her street portrait Boyish Gaze, depicting a raincoat-clad family outing and capturing the attention of a young boy.

Prizes for second and third place offer a limited edition print run of the shortlisted photographers' images, signed and numbered by the artists, as well as inclusion in the CEWE Student Photography Award 2025 exhibition and catalog, and more.

The CEWE Student Photography Award competition forms part of the world’s largest free photography competition, the CEWE Photo Award, a worldwide competition that has so far received more than half-a-million entries.

I got to see Excire Foto 2025 in action at The Photography & Video Show 2025. The AI-powered management software is available for Windows and macOS, and is designed to streamline photo – and now video – organization and culling, boosting the software’s suitability for photographers, videographers, and content creators alike.

Excire Foto 2025 can be used as a standalone application or as an Adobe Lightroom Classic plug-in, making it a tantalizing prospect for Adobe users looking to invest in photo organization software.

I got to see a live demo at the Excire stand (D184) at The Photography & Video Show, where the term ‘burrowing owl’ was typed into the software’s search function and, sure enough, it sorted through thousands of images to find photographs of burrowing owls. The system places what the AI deems most relevant first, with broader images coming later, meaning that other species of owl began to creep in further down the list.

A range of new AI-powered tools are available for Excire Foto 2025: AI-assisted culling, a close-up view and easy navigation for rapid assessment of faces, interactive tools for creating collections of people and portrait photos, ultra-fast image display at full resolutions, and video support with an integrated video player.

That’s as well as the usual free-text search, automatic keywording, duplicate-image searches, people and face searches, AI-powered aesthetic ratings, GPS-based search, and the Excire Analytics module.

Undoubtedly the biggest news regarding Excire Foto 2025 is its full video support, with high-quality video playback. But culling is another big addition, something Excire is calling “unparalleled”. The AI culling has the ability to group and sort files in a variety of ways including visual similarity, sharpness, burst sequences, and subject type. The AI can also select the best images using similar criteria.

The AI can search for people and faces, while also taking into consideration criteria such as age, gender, and whether eyes are open or closed, with the ability to tag faces and create automatic people collections. The software automatically applies keywords to every image during import, reducing the need for laborious manual tagging.

Excire says its AI is: “Trained using hundreds of thousands of photos as well as extensive input from expert photographers,” and cannot be trained via the user – a question I asked myself. This is obviously a question many customers have, because Excire answers it on its website, stating: “These methods were trained with millions of photos on specialized hardware.”

The software retails for $199 (around £154 / AU$316), but a limited launch discount of $169 (£131 / AU$268) is available at the time of writing, while Excire Foto 2024 users can take advantage of a $69 (£53 / AU$109) upgrade fee.

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