2025 Mono awards: the best black and white photography in Australia and NZ – in pictures

Celebrating Monochrome Mastery

The 2025 Mono Awards have once again highlighted the exceptional talent in black and white photography from Australia and New Zealand. With over 3,500 submissions, the competition showcases stunning images across three main categories: people, places, and animals. These photographs not only demonstrate technical skill but also capture profound narratives and emotions.

People Category

Winner: In the Shearing Sheds

Amy Hughes' photograph of her eight-year-old son, Kahu, in the shearing sheds, captures a deep connection to rural life and the bond between humans and animals. The image speaks volumes about generational roles and the authenticity of country living.

Third Place: Bob After His Early Morning Swim

Rob Cleary's portrait of Bob, a regular visitor to Sawtell ocean rock pool, conveys a serene moment of reflection and appreciation for coastal life. The photograph is a testament to the simple joys found in everyday routines.

Runner-up: Mum Said Don’t Break the Clothesline

Em Hacon's nostalgic image of her children climbing on a Hills hoist clothesline mirrors her own childhood memories. This playful scene resonates with many, bringing back fond recollections of family life and youthful adventures.

Places Category

Winner: The Heights of Akron

Will Eades' dramatic capture of a tornado forming on the US plains during a storm chase in eastern Colorado is a striking portrayal of nature's raw power. The interplay of shadows and light, alongside the sheer scale of the storm, makes for a compelling monochrome image.

Runner-up: The Opera House

David Niu's photograph features the iconic silhouette of Sydney's Opera House as seen through ferry windows. The juxtaposition of two seated passengers, one in a wide-brimmed hat, adds depth and intrigue to the composition.

Animals Category

Winner: When Mammoths Ruled the Earth

George Dian captures an Asian super tusker, showcasing the impressive ivory that rivals that of the African elephants. This powerful image brings attention to the rarity and magnificence of these majestic creatures.

Runner-up: Henry’s Nose

Lilly Siemon's spontaneous photograph of her dog, Henry, attempting to eat her camera, resulted in an unexpected yet delightful image. This experimental shot demonstrates the beauty of candid moments in wildlife photography.

How to Engage

• Visit the 2025 Mono Awards exhibition at the Australian Centre for Photography in Sydney, running until December 31, 2025, to view these stunning works in person.
• Participate in a black and white photography workshop hosted by the New Zealand Photography Society in Wellington on November 15, 2025, to learn more about creating impactful monochrome images.
• Support the conservation efforts for Asian and African elephants by attending the wildlife photography talk at the Melbourne Zoo on October 20, 2025, featuring award-winning photographers.

These award-winning photographs not only highlight the artistic prowess of their creators but also invite viewers to reflect on the stories and emotions captured in shades of black and white.