Student’s snap of the sky named the best view of Leeds in the second annual UNITE photography competition
A unique take on the Leeds skyline has earned the coveted title of Leeds ‘Best Shot’ 2010.
Aaron Hargreaves from Leeds College of Art Design snapped up the award with his photograph ‘An Unusual Perspective’ which depicts a trio of buildings towering towards a vibrant twilight sky.
Student accommodation provider UNITE’s annual photography competition searches for student snaps which capture life in Leeds. Aaron’s image beat off competition from almost 200 other photographs to clinch the top spot. The winning image, alongside those of four runners up, will now be exhibited at The Faversham from 7-30th April 2010. Aaron has also pocketed a cash prize of £500 and the runners up each received £250.
UNITE enlisted the expert eye of Pippa Hale, Director of the Northern Art Prize, to select 10 shortlisted photos but the people of Leeds had the final say on who should take the Best Shot crown. In a hotly contested public vote, 4,500 people logged on to choose their favourite image.
Commenting on his win, Aaron said:
“I love Leeds and this competition gave me the chance to show the city in a new light. Winning has really motivated me towards achieving my goal of becoming a professional photographer and I’m very excited about seeing my work exhibited at The Faversham.”
Judge Pippa Hale said:
"I have been impressed by the standard of photography in this year’s Best Shot competition. Aaron Hargreaves’ photograph beautifully captures recent architectural developments in the city whilst retaining a strong geometric composition."
Simon Jones, UNITE’s Operations Director for the North East, said:
“This is the second year that UNITE has supported upcoming talent in Leeds and each year we’ve been blown away by the high standard of entries. What makes this year’s winner even more special is that it was chosen by those who love Leeds the most – the people who live here.”
UNITE has four properties for students to choose from in Leeds, all of which are within walking distance of the main universities, colleges and the city centre. Rooms are available to book now for the 10/11 academic year and there are also a range of short term lets on offer for an immediate start. To find out more, students can visit www.unite-students.com or call 0800 783 4213.
