Recognition Award 2024
Each year, the Special Recognition Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant, positive impact on the photography industry. This can be through their work in training, mentoring, judging, or their overall contributions in support of the industry.
This year, we wanted to give you, our members, the opportunity to decide who truly deserves this honour. The response was overwhelming, with many votes cast, but one name stood out as the clear winner. We heard your voices loud and clear.
Sarah Edmunds shared: “I once overheard a well-known international photographer and educator in an elevator in Las Vegas, discussing the Judging School in the UK. He said to his friends that it was probably the best judging training worldwide. To have elevated The Societies in little old Blighty to this recognition is quite something. The education provided through the monthly competitions and the 16×20 print competition is outstanding. Terrie deserves to be recognised for her many years of hard work.”
Terrie’s journey with The Society of Photographers began in August 2004 when, at the age of 17, she started working for us. Her passion and dedication quickly became evident. Initially involved with the paperwork, she constantly sought to learn more, so we encouraged her to pursue further training.
Terrie took this advice to heart, travelling to the USA to undertake the Professional Photographers of America Judge’s training and to Las Vegas to handle prints at the WPPI competition. When she returned, she was determined to revamp our judging system. Armed with fresh ideas, she launched her own Judging School, which has since trained hundreds of photographers who have gone on to become internationally recognised judges in their own right.
Terrie has cultivated a community of exceptional judges and continues to support photographers striving to take their work to the next level.
Tracey Lund says:
“I’d like to nominate Terrie as she is incredibly passionate about everything that is ‘The Societies’. The time and effort she puts into everything is outstanding, especially the judges training. She pushes us to our limits but always in a positive way. She sees potential in us that we cannot see ourselves, and we become better photographers and judges because of it. Nothing is ever too much trouble for her, and she is always there to help, no matter how big or small the task. She has been my biggest supporter throughout my journey, and I’m a better person because of her hard work. I cannot thank her enough for believing in me.”
Ulla Jensen adds:
“Terrie is the definition of someone who wants to see every photographer succeed and push themselves to new heights. She runs the Judging School with extremely high standards, which ultimately benefits both The Societies and our industry. Thank you, Terrie, for everything you do.”
Elli Cassidy says:
“There are so many reasons I could give, but I want to nominate Terrie for always looking out for and encouraging minority groups. She is truly working towards equality and ensuring every photographer feels represented and welcomed. This is incredibly important, and I see how much Terrie fights and works tirelessly to make it happen.”
Dario Righetto reflects:
“For over 20 years, Terrie has played a remarkable role in setting the industry’s excellence standards through the print competition. She has established this initiative as an international benchmark and has continuously supported photographers, helping them develop their skills and seek advice. Her transparent, grounded, and honest approach has resonated with many and is a true example of integrity and passion for our industry.”
We received many more heartfelt nominations, including kind words from Fiona McKean, Amiee-Jo Ahmed, Lauren Bennett Tippins, Gemma Sains, Nicola Fellows, Gemma Yeomans, Madga Bright, Jayne Mapp, Cass Davies, Lizzie Worley, Eleanor Whibley, and Kelly Hurst, all recognising Terrie’s dedication and contributions.
It is with great pleasure that we announce the winner of the Special Recognition Award 2025: Terrie Jones, Personal Development Manager.
Sarah Edmunds FSWPP Master Photographer and David Standbury FSWPP Master Photographer Presenting The Society of Photographers’ Personal Development Manager Terrie Jones with her award.
