“Before I was member, I would avidly pore over the annual AOP Awards book as an inspiring arbiter of taste & quality. So it’s been a real thrill since joining, to have been shortlisted and won awards in several different AOP categories, both for personal and commissioned projects. Being recognised and respected for your work alongside highly talented peers is a real fillip. Sharing the news of a shortlist or win with clients who know these awards recognise the highest standards in image making genuinely helps generate new work. But I find simply the process of entering helps me review my year’s work with a critical eye, so that I select only the best to put into competition. Even if you aren't shortlisted - and I’ve missed out plenty of times - measuring yourself against the best in the country, and pushing yourself to go further next time, is invaluable. But you do have to be in it to win it, so why not enter this year?”