Lead photo by Kausik Paul. All images used with permission.
The Pure Street Photography Awards has officially announced the grand winner of the street photography competition, along with the first, second, and third place winners. Thirty-six other finalists make up the final selection, and in this article, I’m offering my take on some of the chosen images.
Pure Street Photography Awards 2025
According to the awards’ founder, Dimpy Bhalotia, there were a total of 1,160 submissions to the competition, coming from 34 countries across five continents. Judging was done by renowned British curator and writer, David Campany.
Although 40 images made it to the final online selection, a total of 147 photographs are due to be exhibited at the Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai (22–27 January 2026). As noted in a press release sent to Them Frames, this is set to be the largest street photography exhibition ever held in India.
Related: The Ultimate Street Photography Guide (History, Tips and More!)
Pure Street Photography Grand Winner: Stefanie Waiblinger
Who is Next
About the Photograph: “The Galata Bridge in Istanbul – a place full of life, tradition and spectacular scenery – became the stage for a very special moment. Against the backdrop of the Istanbul skyline, between mosques and minarets, the bride throws her bouquet into the air – a spontaneous, lively moment full of joy and symbolism.” – Stefanie Waiblinger, Germany
“It is like a bouquet tossed into the air and caught — by a shutter, if not by a person.” – David Campany
My take: The shape, color, and texture serve as the perfect backdrop to an eye-catching subject. From people celebrating their happiest day to someone hoping to catch theirs, there’s a lot to see, and yet nothing feels overbearing.
Pure Street Photography 1st Place: Cazerella Tavs
Meeting in the Middle
About the Photograph: “There is always an element of surprise to photography and a thrill in capturing a candid moment that can never be replicated. This was one of those moments. An unexpected standoff in the middle of a quiet rural road, where two cows pause as if negotiating the right of way. It emphasises form, symmetry, and contrast what might otherwise be a fleeting roadside encounter transforms into a playful reflection on standstills, stubbornness, and the gentle comedy of rural life — a reminder that even traffic jams can be charming when left to cows!!” – Cazerella Tavs, UK
“There is a sophisticated argument to be made about the rhetorical figure of ‘chiasmus’ and its significance for photography. Kindly ask the cows.” – David Campany
My take: A classic case of something most people don’t see every day. The symmetrical framing is pleasing, and the long stretch of road gives the frame added depth. The decisive moment is amplified in this shot.
Pure Street Photography 2nd Place: Chris Yan
Mirror
About the Photograph: “This photo was taken in a market in Beijing. Two girls passed by me on an electric bike. One of the girls was holding a large mirror, and her figure was reflected in the mirror. The figure in the mirror merged with the girl in front, which looked very interesting.” – Chris Yan, China
“Photographs with mirrors are like motorbikes for two.” – David Campany
My take: Although an easy win, this is more than a simple reflection photo. The perfect alignment between the driver and the passenger, the joyful expression that brings a sense of warmth, and the minimal distractions all make this a perfectly balanced street photograph.
Pure Street Photography 3rd Place: Nicole Prüm
Phantom of the Past
About the Photograph: “This shot was taken spontaneously during a walk through New York City 2023. It captures a figure whose profile and attire—fedora and suit—immediately call to mind the appearance of Al Capone. The actual humour lies in the pure chance. of the moment: the classic, historical allusion stands directly in front of a modern NYPD Police SUV in the background. The irony of this scene—the unprompted confrontation between the spirit of Prohibition and today’s street police—is what defines the image. It is a quiet, humorous moment of street photography that transports a historical jest into the present day.” – Nicole Prüm, Germany
“It is often said photographs stop time. Occasionally they can combine times, like life itself.” – David Campany
My take: A simple street portrait that elevates the mundane by gazing upon the eccentric personalities that make up our streets. The use of black and white gives it a classic touch, keeping it timeless and engaging.
Pure Street Photography Finalists
Below are my favorites from the remaining 36 finalists.
Adriana Palermo, Switzerland, Team work
Anjali Bist, India, Burning in light
Gavin Libotte, Australia, Desdemona
Jelisa Peterson, USA, Rise and Shine
Kelly Conlin, USA, Higher Power
Liliana Ranalletta, Italy, A deity of the sea
Nick Grinder, USA, West 207th Street
Mariana Basurto, USA, A Twin Gaze at the Pas
Judith Shieh Krasinski, USA, Green People
Further Winners
To see the full list of winners and to keep up to date on future awards, be sure to check out the offcial Pure Street Photography website.
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