Former Edinburgh College Photography student named winner of annual Portrait of Britain award
A former photography student at Edinburgh College has been named one of the winners of the prestigious annual Portrait of Britain award.
The award, organised by the British Journal of Photography, recognises the 100 best portrait images captured across the UK in 2025, celebrates Britain’s modern diversity, and is in its 8th year.
Ritchie Elder, a former student of the College’s BA (Hons) Professional Photography course, will have his striking picture, titled “Faith”, displayed on digital screens up and down the country as part of the UK’s biggest annual photography exhibition. It’s also set to be published in the dedicated Portrait of Britain hardcover book.
His portrait forms part of a larger documentary project, examining the diversity of religious experience and identity in Edinburgh.
Ritchie, who left a career in finance to pursue his passion, says it’s a great honour:
“In terms of portrait photography, this is really about as good as it gets. I think it’s important not to get all your validation from awards, but it is really special to be recognised like this. Knowing that your work will be seen by people up and down the country is quite special.
“The image was originally part of my portfolio for the College, and to see it make its way from there to an actual physical book is amazing.”
The 32-year-old Edinburgh native is encouraging anyone interested in pursuing a career in photography to consider studying at Edinburgh College:
“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made, my wife encouraged me to go for it and I have absolutely zero regrets. The College really gives you all the tools you need to succeed in what is a tough industry. The equipment available is of the highest standard, and the support and guidance you receive from the lecturers is unbelievable.
“If you’re a mature student, 30, 40, or if you’ve just left school, I can’t recommend enough studying at Edinburgh College.”
His work will be displayed on billboards, bus stops and other screens across high streets, airports and shopping centres until early February.
Jon Lee, course leader for Photography at Edinburgh College, says it’s a proud moment for Ritchie, and the College:
“We’d like to offer Ritchie our sincere congratulations on winning this award, it’s well-deserved recognition for a photographer we always knew would go on to great things. Everyone at the College is proud of his achievement, and its further proof of how well our courses set students up for success”.
It’s been a good few weeks for Edinburgh College’s photography alumni, with Jack Currie, another graduate, recently winning the Gold Award at the Association of Photographers Emerging Talent Awards 2025.