Pitted against prestigious photographers from 83 countries around the world, Havelock North photographer Richard Wood rated among the best at the International Masters Cup Colour Photography Awards held in London.
Mr Wood was named second in the competition's portrait category, with his image titled The Welcomer. He also receivedan honourable mention for Band Man in the same category - a special memorial for the model in the photograph who had since passed away, Mr Wood said.
The awards were handed out at a prestigious nomination and winners Photoshow ceremony, webcast live on Sunday, October 29.
Photography fans in 83 countries, logged on to see the climax of the industry's most important event for colour photography.
"It is an incredible achievement to be selected from the 13,321 entries we received this year," awards creative director Basil O'Brien said.
"Richard Wood's Band Man and The Welcomer represent contemporary colour photography at its finest."
The awards put Mr Wood in competition with some of the best photographers in the world.
"The really cool part was seeing people who I have idolised, top world renowned photographers as runners-up to the award [I received]. That was great."
He entered four or five photographs last year but had no idea he would rate so highly with a judging panel including industry masters such as Hasted Hunt Kraeutler and Brancolini Grimaldi.
