Best in Show 2025: Australian Photographic Dog Prize
The David Roche Gallery is thrilled to present the inaugural Best in Show 2025: Australian Photographic Dog Prize, a prestigious biannual competition celebrating Australian dogs while honouring the legacy of our founder, David Roche AM (1930–2013).
From the renowned Fermoy Kennels in North Adelaide, David’s champion dogs claimed Best in Show titles both nationally and internationally from the 1950s through to the early 2010s. Now, the David Roche Gallery is proud to continue his passion by showcasing the significance of dogs in our lives through this exciting photographic prize.
Best in Show 2025 is open to both amateur and professional photographers, offering a grand prize of $5,000. The Young Photographer category (ages 12–18) awards a $500 first prize, with an additional $500 prize for the People’s Choice Award.
Finalists will have their work featured in the Best in Show 2025: Australian Photographic Dog Prize exhibition at the David Roche Gallery from 30 August to 25 October 2025. Entrants may submit up to four photographs across the categories of Dog Portrait, Dogs and Companions, Dogs in Action, and Puppies.
We’re guessing that entries featuring pet photos with Santa won’t be accepted!
This year’s prize will be judged by Robert Reason, Director of the David Roche Gallery, alongside internationally acclaimed Perth based animal photographer and esteemed judge Alex Cearns OAM of Houndstooth Studio.
Reflecting on her role, Alex Cearns shared:
“I am honored to serve as a co-judge for Best in Show 2025: Australian Photographic Dog Prize. It is a privilege to celebrate the artistry and passion of photographers who, like me, find joy in capturing the essence of dogs. I look forward to viewing the submissions that embody the spirit of this distinguished award.”
To be eligible, all submitted photographs must be original works taken in Australia after 19 May 2023. The competition is open to Australian citizens and residents (residing in Australia until at least the end of 2025).
For full entry details and to submit your work, visitwww.rochegallery.com.au/BisPrize/.
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