The photograph, Fish Eyes, was taken by amateur photographer Sophia Spurgin and awarded first place at the Photographer of the Year 2026 in London.
Captured during a family trip to Hoi An, the image shows a local fisherman holding up two freshly caught fish. Their positioning aligns with his eyes, creating a symmetrical and playful composition that impressed judges.
The title Fish Eyes reflects both the visual arrangement and a subtle play on words. The inclusion of a fishing net in the background adds context, evoking the rhythm of coastal life.
Spurgin, a retired teacher, said the photograph was taken spontaneously at the end of a shoot while the fisherman was still at work. She described the moment as light-hearted and memorable, noting that the net in the background helped enhance the authenticity of the scene.
The annual competition features a wide range of categories, including landscape, portrait and street photography, and is open to both professionals and amateurs. Total prize money for the event amounts to GBP 10,000.
