In the 34th edition of AAP Magazine, we invited submissions that explore the intricate interplay of composition and form within the realm of photographic aesthetics. Whether adhering to pure visual formalism or serving a thematic narrative, we eagerly sought artworks that embraced these fundamental elements.

Appreciating shape and form as the cornerstones of photographic composition, we recognize their transformative power; they can elevate the most mundane subject into a masterpiece. Whether through geometric precision, organic fluidity, vibrant positivity, or the subtle play of negative space, the arrangement of shapes enriches a photograph’s overall aesthetics, infusing it with a unique energy.

From a pool of submissions, we selected twenty-five photographers, each approaching the concept of shapes in their distinct manner. Hailing from twelve different countries across four continents, these artists showcase diverse works spanning architecture, mixed-media, still life, abstractions, and more. Their varied techniques and perspectives converge to offer a rich tapestry of unique viewpoints, demonstrating the endless possibilities within the world of shapes in photography.

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#1 Winner: La Muralla Roja by Fabien Dendiéval (France)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

I feel sometimes photography as a kind of quest, a treasure hunt. It is a long term work that takes time and is full of pitfalls, constraints and frustrations but to find myself in front of a scene like this one makes me enthusiastic and rewards me for all my efforts.

#2 Second Place Winner: Symbols for Rhythm by Shinji Ichikawa (Japan)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

I was born in Shimane Prefecture, Japan, and I currently own and operate a photography studio in my hometown.
This series, Symbols for Rhythm, explores the beauty and rhythm of the everyday. Rhythm brings vitality to our lives and has the power to change our perspective. At the same time, the title Symbols helps us perceive rhythm as a visual element. Through photography, we discover and explore rhythm and beauty from a new perspective.

#3 Third Place Winner: Egg-serie by Mieke Dalle (Belgium)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

As a photographer and graphic designer, I like to bring simplicity to my work. In this serie the egg as a starting point, because this shape is one of the most beautiful shapes that occur in nature, in my opinion. Simple yet strong. The beginning of life, the chicken or the egg…

#4 Merit Award: Gjert Rognli (Norway)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#5 Merit Award: Fern Nesson (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#6 Merit Award: Gavin Libotte (Australia)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#7 Merit Award: Vladimir Antaki (France/Lebanon/Canada)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#8 Merit Award: Liliane Schwab (Switzerland/Canada)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#9 Merit Award: Giuliano Ottaviani (Italy)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#10 Merit Award: Kevin Kinner (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#11 Merit Award: Michel Daumergue (France)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#12 Merit Award: Jo Fields (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#13 Merit Award: Emmanuelle Becker (France/United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#14 Merit Award: Marcel van Balken (Netherlands)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#15 Merit Award: Don Jacobson (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#16 Merit Award: Nadide Goksun (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#17 Merit Award: Klaus Lenzen (Germany)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#18 Merit Award: Thomas Hofmann (Germany)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#19 Merit Award: Lisa Thomas (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#20 Merit Award: Sander Vos (United Kingdom)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#21 Merit Award: Stuart Neil (Australia)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#22 Merit Award: Derrick Whaley (African-American)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#23 Merit Award: Junichi Wajda (Japan)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#24 Merit Award: Matt Coughlin (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023

#25 Merit Award: Walter Colley (United States)

AAP Magazine Awards Shapes 2023


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