A powerful image of adolescence and a quirky, abstract image have been named the winners of the Australian Life and Little Sydney Lives photography competitions.
Selected from almost 3,000 entries combined, the winning photographs stood out for their creativity, storytelling and ability to share viewpoints that reflect life in Australia.
The Australian Life winning image, Summer Between Us was chosen from more than 2,400 entries from photographers around the country, with Natalie Grono awarded the competition's $10,000 cash prize.
The Little Sydney Lives winning image, Portrait of Pina Rose by Frankie Macedone (9) from Alexandria, was selected from more than 450 entries submitted by young photographers aged 5 to 12 years. Frankie received an OM System camera package valued at $2,199. The Little Sydney Lives runner-up, Olive Crystal (12), from Croydon received an OM System camera package valued at $1,299 for her image Where is the ball?.
Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, said the winning images demonstrated the power of photography to help people see familiar places, people and experiences differently.
"Photography can preserve a fleeting moment, tell an important story and help us better understand the world around us.
"This year's winning images reveal powerful personal stories and capture beauty that can be found in an ordinary moment.
"Australian Life continues to showcase the diversity, character and resilience of our nation, while Little Sydney Lives reminds us of the curiosity, imagination and optimism of our youngest minds.
"Together, these competitions showcase the many perspectives that make our communities dynamic and unique."
The winners were selected by a judging panel comprising award-winning photojournalist and visuals editor at The Guardian Australia Carly Earl, acclaimed film and TV producer Melissa Azizi, and Yorta Yorta photographer and photojournalist Joseph Mayers.
Carly described Natalie's image as powerful and captivating: "Time at the beach as an adolescent is a big part of Australian life and the essence of that is captured in this image. The photograph is pin-sharp, with perfect composition, excellent lighting and cinematic framing."
"Frankie's image is so sophisticated, especially given she's only 9 years old! The composition, timing and colour palette in unison make it feel very pop-arty - it's akin to a 70s-inspired Andy Warhol image."
Australian Life finalist images are on display in Sydney Square beside Sydney Town Hall until 11 October.
A People's Choice Award winner will be announced on 9 October and receive an OM System camera package valued at $5,300
The Little Sydney Lives finalist images are on exhibition at Customs House for the next 12 months.
