**Welsh Grandfather and Granddaughter Claim Finalist Spots in World Food Photography Awards**
A grandfather and granddaughter duo from Caerphilly have secured their place in the prestigious finals of the World Food Photography Awards, an achievement celebrated by many as akin to earning a nomination at the ‘Oscars’ of food photography.
Harry Williams, 77, and his granddaughter Hollie Williams, aged just 10, will be travelling to the heart of London in May for the culminating event of the global competition. Their remarkable achievement has already brought pride not only to their family but also to their local community in Wales.
Now in its 14th year, the World Food Photography Awards attract thousands of entries from across the globe. In 2025, nearly 10,000 photographs were submitted by participants spanning 70 countries, highlighting the growing popularity and prestige of the event. The pair’s striking images have secured them two of just 185 coveted finalist spots, ensuring their work will be exhibited alongside other top contenders.
Harry’s creative shot, aptly named ‘Lemon Tea’, has been announced as a finalist in the “On the Phone” category, which is dedicated to imaginative, food-related images captured exclusively on mobile devices. This category is run in support of the charity Action Against Hunger, and spotlights photography that combines accessibility with artistic flair.
Hollie, meanwhile, is a finalist in the hotly contested Jamie Oliver Youth Prize category for photographers aged 12 and under. Her image, entitled ‘Sprouting Onion’, impressed judges with its vibrancy and originality. Significantly, this youth category enjoys direct involvement from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver himself, who will play a role in determining the winner.
The final results will be announced at an eagerly anticipated awards ceremony on 20th May at the Mall Galleries, just a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square. Both Harry and Hollie’s images will be viewable to the public from 21st to 25th May, as part of a wider exhibition celebrating food photography in its many forms. Attendees can look forward to an event that draws not only talent from across the world, but also luminaries of the food world including Jamie Oliver and acclaimed chef Yotam Ottolenghi.
Reflecting on this special achievement, Harry Williams expressed immense pride in his granddaughter’s progress. He shared, “When Hollie discovered she was a finalist, she was bouncing around like a tennis ball! I’ve been giving Hollie photography lessons for the past two years, and it gives me immense pleasure to nourish her interest in photography, as she seems to be very creative indeed.”
The journey of familial creativity doesn’t stop there. Harry revealed that both he and Hollie began taking photographs at the age of nine, hinting at a potentially lifelong passion now kindled in Hollie. “Hopefully it will start her on a lifelong journey that will bring her immense joy,” he added.
Should Hollie secure the top spot in her category, she will be offered an exclusive visit to Jamie Oliver’s own headquarters in London—an inspiring opportunity for any young photographer or food enthusiast.
The World Food Photography Awards shine a spotlight on the significance of food not only in daily life but also as an art form. The event provides a platform for emerging talent and experienced photographers alike to share their perspectives and skills with an international audience.
Entry to the exhibition is free of charge, making it an accessible and enticing outing for anyone keen to immerse themselves in the creative world of culinary photography. With nearly 10,000 hopefuls applying, the achievement of the Welsh duo stands as both a testament to their talent and an inspiration to aspiring photographers of any age.