Young photographers from across Somerset gathered at The Engine in Bridgwater on Thursday 6 August for a special Private View to mark the opening of the Young Photographer Showcase 2026.
The exhibition showcases work submitted by young photographers aged 25 and as young as 6 from across the county, highlighting a diverse range of perspectives. This year’s showcase attracted an exceptional response, with 64 young photographers submitting more than 150 photographs – double the number of entries received in 2025 – demonstrating the growing strength of young creative talent across the county. The shortlisted work was selected with the support of photographers Justin Krause, Kate Pearce and Jeff Searle.
The invited photographers arrived not knowing which of their submitted images had been selected for this year’s exhibition, making the evening one of excitement, anticipation and celebration.
At the event, the Deputy Mayor of Bridgwater Tim Mander, joined local photographer Justin Krause to announce the recipient of the Robert Richards Award.
The Robert Richards Award aims to celebrate emerging talent, and is given in memory of the late Robert Richards, who was Chair of Somerset Film trustees for over twenty years as well as a trustee of Glastonbury Abbey and commercial director for Glastonbury Festival. The award is given for an image on the subject of climate change and the natural landscape, and this year’s recipient was Mitch Corrigan from Glastonbury. A Judges’ Commendation Award was also presented to Indy Pitman.
Every young photographer who submitted work had at least one image included in the exhibition.
Deb Richards, Creative Director at Somerset Film, said:
“The response to this year’s Young Photographer Showcase has been extraordinary. What continues to inspire us is the ambition, originality and creativity of young people across Somerset. Every submission represented a unique perspective and a willingness to tell stories through photography. We are proud to celebrate all of the photographers who entered and delighted to share their work with the public.”
Somerset Film would like to congratulate everyone who submitted work for this year’s showcase and thank all of the young photographers for sharing their creativity and perspective.
The Young Photographer Showcase 2026 is open to the public until 11 September at The Engine Room, Bridgwater, and can be visited on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 3.30pm.
Find out more on the Somerset Film website: https://www.somersetfilm.com/whats-on