Photography has always been more than a visual language — it’s a way to feel, to listen, and to remember. The People Photography Awards 2025, presented by The Knights of Art™, celebrates this very essence — the heartbeat of humanity seen through the eyes of artists around the world.
After the global success of their previous Fine Art edition, The Knights of Art™ returns with its Third International Festival, dedicated entirely to the beauty, emotion, and stories that live within people. Every image honored this year reminds us that connection is timeless — that a single photograph can bridge continents and speak directly to the soul.
Curated by an esteemed international jury of acclaimed photographers, filmmakers, and educators, this year’s selection honors eleven remarkable creators whose work captures authenticity, empathy, and artistic excellence in perfect harmony.
International Jury for PEOPLE
The Knights of Art™ assembled an exceptional panel of experts, representing both technical mastery and profound artistic vision. Together, they shaped a judging process that honored sincerity, creativity, and storytelling power:
- Safeen B (USA): Editor-in-Chief of The Knights of Art Magazine, photojournalist, and photography educator
- Mehrdad Oskouei (France / Iran): Filmmaker, photographer, and educator known for powerful documentaries and over 180 jury appointments worldwide
- Ahmad Al Hanjoul (Germany): Visual artist and portrait photographer known for emotionally rich explorations of human character
- Somy Samani (Iran): Fine art and self-portrait photographer interpreting dreams and emotion through tangible, real-world elements
- João Coelho (Angola): Consultant and creative mind supporting modernization and institutional growth within the public sector
- Navin Vatsa (India): Photographer and educator focusing on fine art and documentary work that explores culture, spirituality, and daily human life
- Armin Abdehou (Austria): Art Director and founder of The Knights of Art Magazine, celebrated photojournalist, and documentary photographer
Together, their diverse insights shaped an inspiring and balanced evaluation, defining this year’s People Photography Awards as a global showcase of truth, emotion, and creativity.
Award Winners
GOLD WINNER: “MahaKumbh – World’s Largest Gathering” by Savadmon Avalachamveettil, Ireland
Originally from Kerala, India, and now based in Ireland, Savadmon Avalachamveettil has mastered the art of storytelling through travel and commercial photography. His winning series, “MahaKumbh – World’s Largest Gathering”, captures faith on an epic scale — millions united along the sacred Ganges in a spiritual choreography as old as time.
Shot via drone, the work transforms the chaos of the crowd into an aerial symphony of color and devotion. More than documentation, it’s a meditation on belief and human unity. With the next Maha Kumbh not expected for another 144 years, these images preserve a once-in-a-lifetime testament to our shared spirit.
SILVER WINNER: “The Paradise of Forgotten Hearts” by Antonio Aragon Renuncio, Spain
Antonio Aragon Renuncio has spent his career using photography as a bridge between empathy and awareness. Based in Puerto Rico, the Spanish documentary photographer and educator has taught across continents, led humanitarian projects through his NGO OASIS in West Africa, and photographed for global news agencies.
In “The Paradise of Forgotten Hearts”, Antonio shines light on overlooked lives — his imagery echoing with compassion, resilience, and quiet dignity. With exhibitions in over 300 galleries and 250+ international honors, his body of work continues to redefine the intersection of art and advocacy.
BRONZE WINNER: “Stories” by Tadeo Bourbon, Argentina
From the streets of Buenos Aires to remote villages in Peru and Colombia, Tadeo Bourbon transforms human struggle into poetry. His series “Stories” interlaces narratives of indigenous life, resistance, and renewal — documenting both the scars of history and the courage to rise beyond them.
Each frame is an act of empathy — an artist standing witness to injustice, perseverance, and the beauty of everyday resilience.
Honorable Mentions
- Paul O’Malley – United States
- Gerdie Hutomo – Indonesia
- Xu Zhang – China
- Amirhossein Loloei – Austria
- So Pyay Lynn – Myanmar
- Marijn Fidder – Netherlands
- Sourav Das – India
- Md Shamim UL Islam – Bangladesh
About the Awards
The People Photography Awards stand as one of the most respected recognitions in global art photography, honoring creators who capture humanity in its purest form. Every image showcased is a dialogue — between cultures, generations, and hearts — revealing how photography continues to unite us all.
These awards aim to preserve human stories through the universal language of imagery. By celebrating emotion, honesty, and artistry, The Knights of Art™ continues to champion photographers who dare to show the world what truly connects us.
Benefits at a Glance
- Cash Prizes & Certificates of Achievement — presented to winners and honorable mentions
- Global Publication — featured in both digital and print editions of The Knights of Art™ Magazine
- International Exposure — coverage across leading photography media and art platforms worldwide
- Finalist Showcase — displayed on the official website and social media channels
- Anonymous Judging — ensuring fair and unbiased selection by the international panel
This platform is more than an award — it’s an invitation to grow, inspire, and have your work seen by audiences everywhere.
About The Knights of Art™
The Knights of Art™ is a U.S.-registered organization committed to advancing global photography through its premier international competitions and its celebrated magazine. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to give photographers the recognition and reach they deserve, connecting talent with opportunity across borders.
The upcoming theme, Street Photography, is now open for submissions. Photographers from around the world are invited to share their vision of life in motion — authentic, raw, and endlessly human. Enter now and let your images speak for the world.
