After receiving five Highly Commended awards in the 2024 NZAPA Iris Awards, I decided to enter again this year—submitting another collection of images across Black & White, Portrait, and Photojournalism categories.

This year’s entries were heavily influenced by my recent travels through Cambodia, where I spent time documenting everyday life beyond the temples of Angkor. From monks during quiet moments of reflection, to life along the river villages, and moments of spiritual ritual, these images captured some of the most meaningful experiences from that journey.

I was incredibly pleased to see all five images place again in the 2025 awards, including:

• Silver Award – Photojournalism
• Top 25 Finalist – Photojournalism
• Top 25 Finalist – Black & White
• Highly Commended – Black & White
• Highly Commended – Black & White
• Highly Commended – Portrait
• Highly Commended – Portrait

The standout for me was receiving a Silver Award in Photojournalism, which was a nice surprise and a reminder of why I enjoy documenting real, unscripted moments.

Photography has always been a creative outlet for me—something that allows me to slow down, observe, and tell stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s rewarding to see these moments resonate with others.

Now... time to start thinking about NZAPA 2026.