A DAY IN YOUR LIFE - 2024

Photography Competition

YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS

Founded by BAFTA and multi-award-winning artist Alison Jackson, the Young Local Artists Photography Competition celebrates creativity and community.

This competition is open to anyone with a passion for photography—whether you're snapping pictures with a smartphone or using professional equipment.

Who Can Enter?

Anyone aged 5 and up can participate, regardless of skill level. You’re eligible if you:

  • Live, work, or study in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, OR
  • Are from anywhere in the world but take a photo inspired by Chelsea.

What We're Looking For

Photos should reflect the extraordinary challenges and stories of our time.
Themes might include:

  • Climate change
  • Living with a disability
  • Supporting friends, family, or local businesses

A Message from Founder Alison Jackson

“Everyone should have a chance to shine. The reason I started this photography competition was for everyone to have the same fantastic opportunities I have had within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, specifically the outstanding education available that can lead to so much more.

I was offered my first BBC award-winning TV series whilst I was fresh out of college in RBKC, so I have made the prizes primarily educational and vocational.

There are many extremely talented people out there and I want to give a chance to those who haven't had one before.

I want to discover new talent and aspiring photographers with fresh
‘ways of seeing.’ ”

– Alison Jackson, Founder

Why Enter?

The competition opens doors to amazing opportunities.

Past winners have:

  • Exhibited their work at the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery
  • Won state-of-the-art Leica and Canon camera equipment
  • Received short course offers and bursaries from the University of the Arts
  • Benefited from mentorships and memberships to prestigious photography clubs

Plus, winning photographs are available for purchase on Saatchi Art Online—a chance for emerging talent to share their work with a global audience.

We hope this competition inspires creativity and opens up a world of photographic possibilities, no matter your background or experience.

Prizes and Categories

The Young Local Artists Photography Competition offers exciting prizes for every age group, encouraging creativity and discovery at any stage of life. Whether you're just starting or an experienced enthusiast, there's something for everyone!

Age Categories and Prizes

5-12 Years

  • Winner: Brand-new digital camera
  • 2nd Place: Instax camera

13-18 Years

  • The Workshop Youth Prize
    • Winner: Brand-new digital camera
    • 2nd Place: Instax camera
  • The Youth Prize
    • Winner: Brand-new digital camera
    • 2nd Place: Instax camera

19-30 Years

  • Winner:
    • Brand-new digital camera
    • Two days at Heatherley’s School of Fine Art Open Studio (life or portrait model drawing with expert tuition)
  • 2nd Place: Instax camera

31+ Years

It’s never too late to start a new hobby! Prizes include cameras, vouchers, and unique learning opportunities.

Special Awards

The Chelsea Society Prize

Details to be announced soon!

UAL Special Prize

Open to individuals from minority or underrepresented backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+, BAME, disabled, D/deaf, low-income, or disadvantaged groups.

  • Winner (19+ years):
    • A short course of their choice at the University of the Arts London (value up to £600)
    • Brand-new digital camera
  • Winner (7-18 years):
    • A UAL Short Course for teenagers (value up to £600)
    • Brand-new digital camera

This prize aims to nurture potential talent and remove barriers for those entering the creative industry. Judges will consider the applicant’s background as part of the selection process.

Environment and Sustainability Prize

Awarded for photos highlighting nature and the effects of climate change.

  • Winner: Camera

The Alison Jackson Disability Prize

For participants with any type of disability:

  • Winner:
    • A workshop and photo shoot with Alison Jackson
    • One-on-one tutoring with the award-winning artist
    • Experience running a professional shoot with top technicians and assistants

Best Stylist & Best Model Prize

Recognizing creativity in styling and modeling within the competition’s photo workshops. Sponsored wardrobe pieces bring participants’ ideas to life!

Whether you're capturing the world around you or exploring new perspectives, this competition offers incredible prizes and opportunities for photographers of all ages and backgrounds.