In a stunning affirmation of artistic excellence, local photographer Ben Cumming has been awarded the prestigious title of Image of the Year winner in the Wedding genre by the Guild of Professional Photographers. This significant international honor was bestowed upon Cumming for a captivating image captured at one of Yorkshire’s most iconic venues, Allerton Castle. The announcement was made at the Guild’s glittering awards ceremony at The Hilton, Etruria Hall, on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, marking a career-defining moment for the Yorkshire-based artist.
The Guild of Professional Photographers’ annual competition is a globally recognized event that attracts the very best in the industry. In 2025, the competition saw an incredible influx of over 9,000 entries from photographers across the United Kingdom and around the world. To be selected as a winner from such a vast and talented pool of artists is a remarkable achievement. The judging process is notoriously rigorous, with a panel of internationally recognized experts meticulously reviewing each submission. The Guild’s demanding standards ensure that only the most exceptional images receive recognition, making Cumming’s win a true testament to his skill, creativity, and dedication to his craft.
Steven and Lesley Thirsk, Directors of the Guild of Photographers, expressed their admiration for the winning image, stating, “We are both proud and delighted that Ben has achieved this recognition with their striking image. The Guild has very demanding standards when judging photographic competitions. The judging is undertaken by a panel of internationally recognised experts from a variety of photography backgrounds, so Ben quite rightly should be delighted with their extraordinary achievement.” The award not only highlights Cumming’s talent but also shines a spotlight on the vibrant wedding industry in Yorkshire, a region he has passionately documented for over a decade.
On hearing the news, Ben Cumming shared his excitement: “I’m absolutely over the moon to have won this. It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by the Guild, especially given the phenomenal standard of the other finalists. A big thank you to Allerton Castle for their trust and support, and to the amazing couple who allowed me to capture their special day.” The winning photograph, taken at the magnificent Allerton Castle, is a perfect example of Cumming’s signature style, which blends timeless elegance with authentic, emotional storytelling. His ability to capture the fleeting, intimate moments of a wedding day has earned him a reputation as one of the most sought-after photographers in the region. With 25 years of experience behind the lens, Ben Cumming has honed a unique photographic style that is both artistic and deeply personal. His journey began with film photography, a medium that taught him the importance of precision and intentionality in every shot. Now, using the latest digital technology, he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, creating images that are not only beautiful but also rich with narrative and emotion. His documentary-style approach to wedding photography is heavily influenced by his father’s career as a film director, giving his work a cinematic quality that sets him apart. 
This latest award is a significant addition to an already impressive list of accolades. Cumming has previously been named one of the Top 10 Photographers of the Year by the Guild and has earned a Flash Masters Gold Award. He is also a Qualified member of the Guild of Photographers, a distinction held by only a select few in the UK. For couples seeking a wedding photographer who combines artistic vision with a deep understanding of the craft, Ben Cumming’s work stands as a benchmark of excellence. To see more of his award-winning photography, please visit his website at www.bencummingphotography.co.uk. About Ben Cumming Photography
Ben Cumming Photography is an award-winning wedding photography service based in Batley, West Yorkshire. Led by Ben Cumming, a Qualified Guild of Photographers Professional with 25 years of experience, the studio specializes in creating timeless, story-driven wedding imagery. With a focus on natural moments and creative portraiture, Ben Cumming Photography is dedicated to capturing the unique essence of each couple's special day. The studio is a recommended photographer for many of Yorkshire’s most prestigious wedding venues and serves clients across the UK.
