PRESS PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 2022 AWARDS ANNOUNCED
The 44th annual Press Photographers Association of Ireland awards ceremony took place in Dublin on 18th February 2022, via an online live-streamed event from AIB headquarters in Dublin, with the work of photographers from all areas of the country showcased and rewarded. There were a large number of logins to the ceremony, with most being watched by multiple viewers.
The event was opened by a video address from An Taoiseach Micheal Martin, and the various categories were introduced using video clips by well known names from the worlds of entertainment, sport, politics and media: Eve McCrystal, Robbie Henshaw, Dearbhaill McDonnell, Neven Maguire, Eamon McCabe, Panti Bliss, Haris Zambaroukis, Colin Stafford-Johnson, Pat Kenny and Gloria Hunniford. The event was concluded by an address from European Ombudsman Emily O'Reilly
James Crombie of the Inpho sports picture agency was named ‘Press Photographer of the Year’ and was awarded prizes in Daily Life and People - 3rd prize, Sports Feature - 3rd prize, Nature and the Environment - 1st prize.
The judging panel was chaired by photographer and former Irish Times Picture Editor Frank Miller who was assisted by award winning sports photographer Eddie Keogh and Helen Healy, Head of Pictures for the Financial Times in London.
The multimedia award was judged by Michael Lee, now retired RTÉ cameraman and Philip Bromwell, RTÉ News video and mobile journalist. Paul Sherwood, President of The Press Photographers Association of Ireland, said; Congratulations go to James Crombie, who has deservedly retained the title of Press Photographer of the Year’ with his superb portfolio, being topped off by his iconic image of the starling murmuration. Also to the other prize winners and all those members whose images have gone to make up the exhibition which will go on tour around the country
shortly.
The PPAI also announced a new honorary member to the association, for her outstanding contribution to the PPAI and press photography in Ireland.
Dr. Marian Keyes of the dlr Lexicon was presented with the honour for her hosting of the PPAI's exhibition in the library over the course of many years and for organising the outdoor exhibition in 2021 due to the Covid pandemic. Marian is due to retire from the Lexicon at the end of February.