Bright's Alpine Light Gallery photographers and owners Mieke Boynton and Matt Palmer have returned victorious after both judging and (separately) submitting entries in this year's New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP) Iris Awards and Photo Show.
Matt achieved one of his professional goals when he was awarded a 'Grand Master Photographer' distinction, as well as four 'Gold Awards' for this year's pieces, which contributed to his win as 'Australian Travel Photographer of the Year' and 'Overall Australian Professional Photographer of the Year'.
The Grand Master distinction is a long-term achievement, gained by receiving multiple awards for pieces over many years, earning a 'point' for each win, to earn 75 points and the 'Grand Master Photographer' title, which only five Australians have been awarded to date.
"Overall, this year has probably been the greatest success for me," Matt said.
"This particular year, because I was going for the Grand Master of Photography, I thought if I had a little bit of luck, I could cross the line.
"The work I submitted is fairly diverse, both contemporary and a variety from the archive.
"I entered some 18-year-old work because I wanted this Grand Master to reflect all of my photography, not just what I had shot in more recent years.
"You can try and anticipate what people might like, but it's a lot more satisfying if you submit entries you really love and if other people love it too, that's the best."
Mieke said Matt is an absolute superstar and has worked so hard towards achieving his Grand Master distinction.
"To achieve the overall Australian Professional Photographer of the Year as well is just absolutely sensational," she said.
"People often wonder whether we’re competitive with each other, but there is literally no one in the world more excited than me he has taken out 'the big one'!"
Mieke was awarded seven 'Silver Distinction' and four 'Silver' awards for her entries this year, as well as achieving the 'Landscape Photographer' division award four times in the last five years, with Matt the only other person to win it.
"It's a huge achievement," Matt said.
With all 22 of their prints ending up with awards, Mieke said the pair were absolutely 'over-the-moon' with the results.
Both artists acted as photography judges this year, in different categories than they submitted pieces; with three days of judging and two days presenting at the New Zealand Photo Conference.
The Alpine Light Gallery is located at 102A Gavan Street in Bright.