We are thrilled to unveil the winners of this year’s Big Photo Challenge! The theme, “Your Narrative in a Frame,” invited charities to capture the essence of their impactful work and convey their mission through a single, powerful image. Our judges had the challenging task of selecting the top three entries from a remarkable array of submissions, each deserving recognition for their empathy, compassion, and storytelling prowess. It was after a long discussion process that the winners were whittled down to just three.

A word from our judging panel, Nicola, John, Amelia and Joss.

“The quality of the submissions was exceptional, making it difficult to narrow down to just a few winners. The creativity and narrative strength of each photograph were impressive. It was evident that a lot of thought and heart went into every entry, making the decision process both tough and fulfilling.”

“Each photograph offered a unique window into the incredible work of the charities, showcasing not just their missions but the human stories behind them.”

“Choosing the top images was a challenging yet rewarding experience. The photographs were filled with emotion and authenticity, capturing moments of profound significance.”

“I very much enjoyed looking at all the entries this evening. Every entry deserves recognition. Some wonderful photographs.”

Without further ado, let’s shine a spotlight on the inspiring work of our charity partners through the winning photos.

Big Photo Challenge Winners 2024

Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity

First place award: £2000

This photo shows dignity and humour in the face of adversity, it’s beautifully simple, well composed and intriguing. This portrait suggests a normality in an unusual circumstance, a contradiction that shows great insight. The dynamic composition, with splashes of yellow and an off-eyeline gaze, adds to the whimsical charm, making it a standout piece that both warms the heart and uplifts the spirit.

About the photo:

The innocence of youth is found everywhere around our hospital. This oncology patient was in for a transfusion but found a moment to play by hopping onto her stand for a quick ride – a piece of equipment that’s become commonplace in her life.

Credits: Kris Askey

Mustard Seed Project Kenya

Second place award: £1000

With its harmonious colors and classic painting vibes, this photo captures the viewer’s attention and evokes a sense of timeless beauty. The intensity on the child’s face communicates dignity and engagement, transforming the image into a memorable and evocative storytelling moment. This beautiful photo stands out not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its powerful narrative.

About the photo:

This classroom image demonstrates the excellent conditions and resources along with an engaging, qualified teacher that results in happy, successful students.

Credits: Monia Antonioli

Open Homes Nottingham

Third place award: £500

Such a tender and intriguing photograph, it challenges the perception of homelessness. It is thoughtfully observed and composed, suggesting order, calm, and stability amidst a typically chaotic situation. It evokes the story of a young man taking control of his space, respectfully contradicting the typical image of a homeless child while highlighting the opportunity for a fresh start.

About the photo:

Open Homes offers young people experiencing homelessness emergency accommodation in volunteers’ spare rooms, providing safety and comfort in times of crisis. It’s more than just a bed—it’s a home for the night, offering warmth and support.

Credits: Adam Shaw

Highly Commended

Although we could only select three winners, we wish to acknowledge the exceptional quality of all submissions. This year, we received a record number of entries, and the judges deliberated extensively before finalising the top three. Here are the honourable mentions that deserve recognition for their outstanding photographs:

Afghanaid

From darkness to light, this compelling photograph captures the refuge provided by  completely rebuilt, permanent homes, highlighting a region often forgotten in the news.

About the photo:

Decades of conflict and disasters have had a devastating effect on rural areas in Afghanistan, decimating villages and displacing thousands of families. In 2022, Afghanaid supported over 12,830 people by rebuilding destroyed communities, helping families return to places they once called home.

Credits: Richard Pohle/The Times

Music in hospitals and care

The composition of this photograph is lovely, beautifully capturing the love and joy on the musicians’ faces as they bring peace to someone in pain, perfectly conveying the story.

About the photo:

Sharing live music in critical care wards, South Wales “As musicians, our playing is informed and inspired by the listener’s response. Every response from a patient in critical care is really valuable and it’s so humbling to be playing for them.” – Delyth Jenkins, Music in Hospitals & Care musician.


Reuben’s Retreat

A beautifully composed photograph with impeccable framing that brings tears to the eyes. Every element in the picture tells a poignant story, making it a truly wonderful and moving image.

About the photo:

Reuben’s Retreat, helping families whose children may face an uncertain future to create precious memories together that can be treasured forever.


Barefoot College International UK

This is a very well observed juxtaposition of traditional housing and modern transformative technology. It very clearly depicts their mission statement.

About the photo:

“Solar Is Our Future” – In central Senegal solar installations brings energy to remote village houses which are usually dark after sunset. BCI UK is training solar mamas in Senegal and other African countries, to bring light and power to their communities one village at a time.


Littlelifts

Intriguing and beautifully colored picture that captures the essence of bravery and the spirit of women supporting women, leaving you eager to learn more of the narrative.

About the photo:

Beautiful beneficiary Emma took to the runway showing her double mastectomy scars. She turned to a room full of love after sharing that she wanted to represent a body type that is not celebrated. That night it was… we stood, we cheered, we cried. We are more than a Box, we champion our community.

Credits: James Rouse

Accomplish Children’s Trust

Tells the story beautifully with great expression and connection, featuring excellent composition, lovely rhythm, and colors that elegantly thread over her face.

About the photo:

Sharon is one of our disabled children trained through our funded vocational training programme in knitting. She is now thrilled to be self supporting selling clothes at her market stall.

 


Stay up late

Brimming with energy and joy, this selfie taken on a phone camera beautifully tells a story, capturing a moment of pure exuberance.

About the photo:

This captures our mission: joyful, inclusive lives for people with learning disabilities. Taken by Chris, who has Down syndrome, it shows participants celebrating at a karaoke bar. Embodying inclusion, friendship, and empowerment, highlighting our commitment to breaking barriers and inclusion.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to review the submissions for this photo competition. We had a huge number of entries and I’ve been absolutely blown away by the quality. Not only are the photos incredibly moving, joyful and inspiring, they beautifully represent the amazing range of organisations we support and the impact we enable.”

Alex Day, Director of Big Give

We extend our deepest gratitude to all the charities and photographers who participated in The Big Photo Challenge. Your dedication and creativity are truly inspiring, and we have been left amazed and warmed by the incredible impact achieved by you all.

Best regards,

The Big Give team and our judges: Nicola, Joss, John, and Amelia.