Two Hertfordshire photographers have been recognised at the 2023 Image of the Year competition.
The event, run by The Guild of Photographers, saw Hertford's Marietta Balassa and Harpenden's Steve Collins both secure awards for their photographs.
The winners were announced at an awards ceremony held in Stoke on Trent, on Saturday, February 3.
Marietta Balassa, Hertford
Marietta Balassa, from Marietta Photography, was "thrilled" when her shot secured Image of the Year in the new-born baby category.
Marietta commented: "I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Image of the Year award from the Guild of Photographers.
"This recognition motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and storytelling through my lens.
"Being recognized as one of the top ten international photographers in the UK is a testament to the support of my clients, colleagues, and the photography community.”
Steve Collins, Harpenden
Meanwhile, Steve Collins was runner-up in the urban category of the Image of the Year awards, for his shot of Tabure restaurant in Harpenden.
The image shows chef Mehmet Berhan Aksahin preparing for the restaurant's evening service.
Along with the award, Steve was has achieved the prestigious 'Photographers Bar' from The Guild of Photographers for the sixth time.
Steve, who is also Chair of Harpenden Photographic Society, said: “I’m delighted to have achieved the Photographers Bar distinction for the 6th time.
"Additionally, after the thrill of having two images selected as Top Ten finalists in the Urban Category for Image of the Year, I am super honoured that my image of Tabure was chosen by The Guild judges as the Runner Up.
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"I still haven’t actually eaten there, so I must make sure I do now!
"I am also proud that many of the images that contributed to the Photographers Bar were taken locally in Harpenden.
"In addition to the image of Tabure, these include ones of Godfreys of Harpenden Fish and Chip shop, a steamed up barbers shop window in Southdown; a rainy bus stop outside Pizza Express, as well as a snowy scene taken on the Common."
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