Photography competition winners - Edinburgh in Focus

The annual student photography competition winners have been announced! The competition was open in Semester 1 under the theme ‘Edinburgh in Focus’. Open to international students and students who have had a study or work away experience, the submissions totalled over 240 photos.

2024/25 winners

There were 241 photo submissions from students representing all the schools at the University and 44 nationalities. There were over 5,000 votes to choose the most popular photo, and a panel of six judges selected the winners. Congratulations to all of the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated!

First prize - Callum O’Connor

Leith Docks reflections in the water

This photo captures the charm of Leith, a district that embodies Edinburgh's maritime heritage and evolving cultural landscape. Taken at the Victoria Swing Bridge, it showcases a tranquil waterfront scene, where historic and modern architecture coexist. The warm autumn hues reflect on the still water, adding a timeless quality. Leith is special because it offers a contrast to Edinburgh's medieval Old Town, with its vibrant dockside community, eclectic eateries, and artistic spaces. This isn't a hidden secret but rather a classic view‚ one that encapsulates Edinburgh's ability to blend history, innovation, and scenic beauty into everyday life.

Second prize - Yuwei Su

A lone tree on the Pentland Hills after a heavy snowfall

This photo was taken at Pentland Hills after a heavy snowfall. This is my first winter in Edinburgh, and I was thrilled to witness such a pristine snowy world for the first time. Having been in Edinburgh for six months, Pentland Hills has become my favorite place because its scenery changes beautifully with the seasons. Under the blue sky, the solitary tree doesn't feel lonely, as it is accompanied by the moon in this serene and magical snowy landscape.

Top-voted - Busra Kanbur

St. Giles' Cathedral through an archway

This is a view of St. Giles' Cathedral from an angle that isn't visible from the front; you need to walk a bit around to the back to see it. I arrived in Edinburgh two months ago, and I love exploring and discovering these incredible architectural details. As I slowly made my way around St. Giles, I saw this statue framed by the columns. I spent some time adjusting to capture just the right angle. It was a captivating moment.

Principal’s choice - Amartya Yadav

McEwan Hall
This photograph of McEwan Hall beautifully captures the essence of "Campus and Community" at the University of Edinburgh. As the grand ceremonial hall where students celebrate their academic achievements, McEwan Hall stands as a symbol of ambition, perseverance, and shared experiences within the university. The intricate stone architecture, framed by bare winter trees, represents the deep-rooted history and traditions of Edinburgh, while the dramatic sky and golden hues of the setting sun evoke a sense of inspiration and transition‚ much like the journey of students who pass through this institution.
 
This image not only showcases an iconic university landmark but also reflects a personal connection to the place where memories are made, challenges are overcome, and futures are shaped. Edinburgh, in focus, through the eyes of a student.

Campus and community - Chloe Chung

Seagull confidently standing on the streetlamp in George Swaure

This is a photo taken in George Square. The building on the left is the informatics building and the one on the right is Appleton Tower. I captured a seagull between the two, confidently standing on the streetlamp. This makes me think of International students between home and Edinburgh, with many choices on the next step, confused yet confident.

Urban views - Harry Lei

View of Edinburgh at sunset from Calton Hill

Edinburgh's charm lies in its perfect blend of history and beauty, captured here from the iconic Calton Hill. This timeless urban view brings together the city's most distinctive landmarks: the illuminated Balmoral Clock Tower, the Scott Monument, and the distant outline of Edinburgh Castle, all framed by the classical columns of the Dugald Stewart Monument. The glowing lights of the city streets contrast with the dramatic hues of the sunset, creating a magical ambiance that defines Edinburgh's character. This photo reflects the essence of the theme 'Urban Views'‚ harmonious interplay of architecture, light, and nature that makes this city so special. It's more than a classic view; it's a moment of stillness in a city rich with stories, a place where past and present coexist, and where every glance reveals something uniquely Edinburgh.

Nature and wildlife - Güler Gül

Fox perched along the walkway of union Canal

After my long walk along the union Canal, I wanted to pass through the narrow passage next to Dalry Cemetery on my way home. When I suddenly saw a cute pair of eyes looking at me, I wanted to capture the moment immediately.

Global experiences - Alice Jones

A lone male elephant in Namibia

During my fieldwork trip to Namibia, I was studying at a waterhole hide when I was unexpectedly visited by a lone adolescent male African elephant. This photo was taken on my first evening visiting the research centre, making it feel like a warm welcome to Namibia.

Local meets Global - Sophia Cruz

A crow perched at the summit of Blackford Hill
Taken at sunrise from the summit of Blackford Hill, this photograph captures a quiet moment of reflection, both for the city and for myself. The crow, perched and watchful, mirrors my own feelings in my final year: a keeper of the city yet on the cusp of departure. For four years, I have made this city my home, Blackford Hill serving as my vantage point where I have seen Edinburgh unfold in every season, its spires and streets alive with stories and memories I have made with people from all around the world.
Everyday moments in Edinburgh feel like intersections of different cultures and in its blend of history and modernity I see my own journey. From café conversations to standing in solidarity at events to simply being present for others, I hope that my presence‚ however small‚ has added to the sense of belonging that makes this city extraordinary.