Thames Festival Trust in partnership with the Port of London Authority and Illuminated River Foundation are pleased to announce the winning Thames Lens 2021 photos.

Thames Lens 2021 announced in June the theme ‘My Thames Vision’. Photographers were asked to submit entries responding to the main theme with a reflection on the individuals’ personal relationship with the river.

In 2021 the Illuminated River Foundation also joined the annual photography competition with its own category and a host of prizes. Spanning nine bridges from Lambeth to London Bridges, Illuminated River is a long-term art installation transforming the Thames at night.

The Illuminated River category received close to 200 entries from amateur photographers who captured the artwork celebrating Central London’s historic links with the river.

Sarah Gaventa, Illuminated River Foundation’s Former Director, said –

“It’s great to see how Illuminated River has become a source of inspiration to so many budding photographers. We are delighted with the calibre of entries in our new Thames Lens category – focusing on Illuminated River’s artwork across nine Central London bridges.

Drawing close to 200 applications, the entries championed Leo Villareal’s artwork in original ways, re-interpreting this monumental public artwork with fresh eyes. Warren Chrismas’ winning photograph, ‘Colour Rush’, which captures the sunset tones of London Bridge at evening rush hour, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the competition, celebrating the Thames and its bridges as important civic spaces where transport, culture, working life and recreation all converge.”

Commenting on his winning photograph in the Illuminated River category, Warren Chrismas said: “The beautiful, evolving lights have truly transformed the Thames, rightly drawing attention to the bridges in a city full of famous historic landmarks and stunning skyscrapers. The tones don’t really seem out of place at all. In fact, some evenings when I take photos of London Bridge like this, it feels like nature’s now working extra hard to compete!”

As part of the competition prizes sponsored by the Illuminated River Foundation, Warren Chrismas received £500 in cash, plus an exclusive dinner cruise for 2 with City Cruises.

Winners in the main category were judged by representatives of Thames Festival Trust and Port of London Authority, plus Camera Club’s Director Kate Coe and professional photographer Simon Ellingworth. The Illuminated River category was judged by Thames Festival Trust, Illuminated River Foundation Former Director Sarah Gaventa, and Kim Murphy, Digital Media Manager at Caro Communications.

Visit the Thames Festival Trust website to view the full Thames Lens 2021 winner and shortlist.