Scotland’s natural beauty and vibrant culture have once again inspired a new generation of creatives, as the winner of the 2025 Scotland Phone Photography Competition has been announced. Open to young people aged 12–18 across the country, this year’s competition attracted over 250 impressive entries, each capturing a unique moment through the lens of a smartphone.
After much deliberation from the panel of judges, Henry Wichman from Starley High School was named the overall winner, taking home the £100 prize and national recognition for his striking photograph.
Judges praised Henrys work for its “incredible mood and atmosphere,” noting that the photo “looks like it was taken by someone well beyond their years in both skill and creative vision.”
The competition, in it’s first year, was designed to encourage young people to explore photography using the tools they already have in their pockets—mobile phones. Organisers were overwhelmed by the high standard of entries, which ranged from dramatic landscapes and urban life to candid portraits and abstract takes on daily life in Scotland.
“There’s no shortage of talent among Scotland’s youth,” said lead judge Conor Mulloy. “What stood out this year was the variety—not just technically beautiful photos, but thoughtful, emotional, and often bold storytelling through imagery.”
In addition to Starley Hall’s win, we’ve included a shortlist of some of the top photos below from the students.
The 2025 competition has reaffirmed how powerful young voices can be when given the opportunity and platform to express themselves—and all through something as simple and accessible as a phone camera.
After the success this year, we will be running this competition for Scotland again next year over a longer period of time. This will allow more students to shoot and edit their best photo. Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our mailing list to stay informed.
Henry Wichman – Starley High School
On our shortlist (in no particular order):
Penny McAllister – Greenfaulds High School
Erin Newing – Jedburgh Grammar Campus
Kaleb Lister – Cumbernauld Academy
Ruby – Ad Ed
Kornelia Walczak – Lochside Academy
Mariia Sytar – Jedburgh
Atholl Sargent – Aboyne Academy
Cayden Fyfe – Kinlochleven High School
Millie Webster – Grove Academy
William Stephen – Inveurie Academy
Blaine Taylor – Aboyne Academy
Steven Low – Grove Academy
