The exhibition

The Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2009 presents the very best in contemporary portrait photography, showcasing the work of some of the most talented emerging young photographers , alongside that of established professionals, photography students and gifted amateurs.

This year's competition attracted over 2,400 photographers who together submitted more than 6,300 images. The resulting exhibition of sixty works, includes the four prize-winners and the winner of the Godfrey Argent Award, which this year goes to the most outstanding portrait taken by an exhibitor aged between 18 and 25 years of age.

Through editorial, advertising and fine art images, the mix of international entrants have explored a range of themes, styles and approaches to the contemporary photographic portrait, from formal commissioned portraits to more spontaneous and intimate moments capturing friends and family. Featuring many images previously unexhibited, the Taylor Wessing Photographic Portrait Prize 2009 represents a unique opportunity to see some of the most exciting contemporary portrait photographers working today.

• Photographic Portrait Prize 2008
• Photographic Portrait Prize 2007
• Photographic Portrait Prize 2006
• Photographic Portrait Prize 2005