Lecturer wins the ‘Portrait Award’ at the British Photography Awards

Chris Frazer Smith, Sessional Lecturer for BA (Hons) Digital Photography was recently presented the Portrait Award at the esteemed British Photography Awards (BPA), which celebrates the best of UK-based photography talent.

The BPA run an “open, responsible competition” which celebrates photographers from a range of different disciplines. They work with charities from across the UK, raising money for a variety of carefully selected causes through entrants fees.

Chris, an award-winning photographer who has exhibited in galleries including the National Portrait Gallery and The Royal Academy, was recognised for ‘Cowboys Resting’.

He took the portrait while working on an advertising shoot in New Zealand, photographing the four ‘cowboys’ while they were waiting to be called on set.

Commenting, Chris said, “What a night at The Savoy for the British Photography Awards. There was some stunning photography nominated and winning. It was an honour to walk away with the Portrait Award for ‘Cowboys Resting’.

“The BPA really stands out for various reasons, firstly the nominees photography is just stunning, secondly it is a smart and brilliantly organised event — black tie, The Savoy, what’s not to like. Thirdly, and most importantly, it supports some excellent charities, many of whom I had never heard of until investigating the awards last year.”

Ravensbourne’s BA (Hons) Digital Photography recently celebrated their tenth anniversary, with the launch of ‘Identity’ at gallery and creative hub Peckham Levels. Find out more about the awards at The British Photography Awards.