Sony India recently revealed Rajeev Gaikwad as India’s National Award winner for the Sony World Photography Awards 2025.
The National & Regional Awards programme is an initiative set up by Sony and Creo under its photography strand the World Photography Organisation to support local photographic communities around the world, with 56 countries taking part this year. Across this year’s Awards over 419,000 images from over 200 countries and territories were submitted to the Sony World Photography Awards 2025.
National and Regional Award winners were selected from the Open competition, which champions the best single images taken in the past year.
Rajeev Gaikwad was anonymously selected by judges for his photograph Phantom Bloom, entered into the Object category of the Open competition. Amidst a vast abandoned waste marble dumping yard in Kishangarh, Rajasthan, a lone tree reaches towards the sky, its bare branches a testament to its resilience. Hanging from the branch, the vivid burst of colour of the two bags introduces a touch of humanity. In this image, the photographer reflects on the delicate balance between nature and human presence in an unforgiving landscape.
Growing up on the surreal outskirts of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, I found inspiration in the dreamlike rural landscapes around me. Photography became my way of preserving moments and telling stories, blending realism with a touch of surrealism. My work focusses on capturing emotions, connections, and the beauty in the mundane. I Always aim to share my unique perspective and inspire others to see the world through a creative and thoughtful lens.
Commenting on his win, Gaikwad said, “Being shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards is a surreal and humbling experience for me, I feel completely Blessed. It’s an honor to have my work recognised on this esteemed international platform.
As India’s National Award winner, Rajeev Gaikwad receives Sony digital imaging equipment and will be included in the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition and book.
The overall winners in the Student, Youth, Open and Professional competitions of the Sony World Photography Awards 2025 will be announced on 16 April and will go on display as part of the exhibition at Somerset House, London (17 April – 5 May 2025)
This year’s National and Regional Awards winners are:
With our magazine celebrating its 38th Anniversary this month, January also marks the start of a new year – a time when we explore the trends that we believe will shape the photography world in 2025. Since the beginning of this journey, photography has evolved phenomenally, and each year brings surprises and innovations. Here are some of the trends that we anticipate will make a significant impact in 2025.
By Bhavya Desai
AI-Assisted Editing
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has firmly embedded itself in photography workflows, with tools like generative fill taking center stage. AI-assisted editing software now enables creators to modify, extend, or reimagine their images with precision and speed. Whether it’s removing unwanted elements, enhancing backgrounds, or creating entirely new compositions, AI tools are empowering photographers to focus on their artistic vision while handling complex edits effortlessly.
Tech influencer MKBHD recently showcased a platform like this in one of his videos, highlighting its potential for content creators and drawbacks too. Such advancements hint at a future where AI-driven creativity might become mainstream.
Bold Colours
2025 is all about bold, unapologetic colours. From vivid reds and blues to electric yellows and greens, photographers are embracing a more striking colour palette to make their work stand out. This trend reflects a global appetite for visual storytelling that captures attention in an oversaturated digital landscape.
Vintage Nostalgia
Despite the onslaught of bold colours vintage aesthetic remains timeless, but 2025 is seeing a reinvention of the old-school charm. Film grain, sepia tones and retro-inspired filters are making a resurgence, offering a sense of nostalgia while blending seamlessly with modern themes. Photographers are leveraging this trend to evoke emotion and connect audiences with a sense of history.
High-Key Videos
As platforms like Netflix and other streaming giants invest in high-key visuals, photographers and videographers are adopting this trend in their projects. High-key videos, characterized by bright lighting and minimal shadows, offer a clean and polished look that’s perfect for brand campaigns, fashion shoots, and even social media content. Shows like Selling Sunsets on Netflix are good examples of this, but it’s safe to say that we still don’t see this coming to YouTube video content anytime soon.
Inclusive Photography
Representation matters more than ever. Inclusive photography is gaining momentum, showcasing diverse models, cultures and body types. Photographers are making conscious efforts to break stereotypes and celebrate individuality, ensuring their portfolios resonate with audiences worldwide.
Authenticity
While conversations still surround the fake Instagram-able life, today is all about authenticity. Gone are the days of overly staged portraits where photographers aim to capture genuine emotions and candid moments. This trend focuses on human connections, raw emotions and storytelling that feels real and relatable.
Drones Are Out
While drones revolutionized aerial photography and were used extensively even in 2024, their novelty has started to wear off – in the conventional sense. 2025 sees a shift towards grounded creativity, with photographers exploring unique angles and perspectives closer to the subject. This trend encourages innovation in composition without relying on aerial gimmicks and perspectives like FVP etc will be more visible in 2025.
Vertical Photography
The dominance of mobile content has made vertical photography a staple – since the past few years. However, this year photographers are designing their shots with vertical formats in mind, ensuring their work aligns seamlessly with the viewing habits of audiences on platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. And this is in line with the brand strategies of today.
Advanced Printing Technologies
Printing is experiencing a renaissance with advancements in 3D printing and high-resolution inkjet technologies. Photographers are experimenting with textured photographs and prints that offer a tactile experience. This trend is redefining how we interact with visual art in physical spaces and in many ways also bringing print back.
Intentional Camera Movement
Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) is capturing imaginations in 2025. This artistic technique involves moving the camera during exposure to create abstract, painterly effects. It’s a favourite among fine art photographers looking to infuse their work with emotion and dynamism. You can also see that more and more in wedding styles and fashion. It took off in 2024 and still will continue as a key style in 2025 as well.
Camera Control button
iPhone started it and it seems that more manufacturers might jump onto the bandwagon. Oppo also featured it in the Find X8 Pro and I feel more manufacturers might introduce it in their products in 2025. How much of that feature will be usable is still up for debate.
Photography in 2025 will be a blend of technology, artistry and cultural consciousness. By staying ahead of these trends, photographers can continue to innovate and inspire in an ever-changing creative landscape.
