This book provides a unique opportunity to see an inspiring range of portraits from contemporary photographers selected from thousands of submissions.

This year marks the introduction of In Focus, a display of new works by an internationally renowned photographer that will be exhibited alongside those of the finalists. The works are reproduced in the catalogue, together with other well-known examples by the photographer and an interview about his life and work. This year’s In Focus photographer is Pieter Hugo, who was chosen for his uncompromising, insightful and occasionally provocative approach to portraiture.

Fully illustrated in colour throughout, the book also features all the selected entries, comments and insights from the judges and interviews with the prize winners.

The Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize is the leading competition to celebrate and promote the very best in contemporary portrait photography from around the world.

The selected images explore both traditional and contemporary approaches to the photographic portrait whilst capturing a range of characters, moods and locations. Alongside informal images of friends and family, this year’s exhibition also features revealing portraits of famous faces, including actor Benedict Cumberbatch and the President of the United States Barack Obama with First Lady Michelle Obama.

Cover Image: Tereza Červeňová, Yngvild, 2014 © Tereza Červeňová