The annual EAF Audio Visual Championships took place on 5th October, showcasing an inspiring array of creative talent.
Judging the event were Ian Bateman FRPS MPAGB-AV AV-EFIAP APAGB and Clive Tanner FRPS MPAGB FIPF AWPF APAGB, both highly respected figures in the AV community.
This year’s competition featured 42 outstanding AV entries, each telling its own unique story. Subjects ranged from delicate florals and historic churches to travel adventures and deeply emotional narratives that truly tugged at the heartstrings.
The day was thoughtfully structured into four sessions, with breaks for tea and lunch offering a relaxed space for attendees to connect and share ideas. It was especially heartening to see a number of first-time entrants stepping into the AV arena, bringing fresh perspectives and heartfelt storytelling to the screen.
After the final session, guests enjoyed a well-earned supper of fish or chicken and before reconvening at 6pm for the evening programme. The judges returned from deliberations, and the event concluded with a celebratory awards presentation and prize-giving ceremony.
Among the many compelling entries, two AVs truly stood out for their emotional resonance and creative impact:
“Without You” by Brian Harvey won the Popular Vote, striking a deep chord with the audience through its heartfelt storytelling
“Trauma” by Paula Irvine, recipient of the Best Creative AV award, was a brief yet powerfully evocative piece that left a lasting impression.
1st Place: “The Rise and Fall of Baroque” by Philip Smithies– a masterfully crafted production.
2nd Place: “Disused Shredded Wheat Factory” – I was delighted to receive this recognition for my own entry.
3rd Place: “Winter’s Magic” by Sheila Haycox – a beautifully atmospheric piece.
The feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant shared that they gained valuable insights and fresh inspiration to carry forward into their future AV creations.
Alison Jenkins ARPS DPAGB CPAGB/AV BPE1*
Here are the full details of the award winners
1st Place: PAGB Gold Medal and EAF AV Trophy
Philip Smithies: "The Rise and Fall of Baroque"
2nd Place: PAGB Silver Medal
Alison Jenkins: "Disused Shredded Wheat Factory"
3rd Place: PAGB Bronze Medal
Sheila Haycox: "Winters Magic"
Best Photography: PAGB Ribbon
Lesley Burnand: "It's Owl or Nothing"
Best Sound: PAGB Ribbon
Paul Shilliam: "Born Free"
Best Dissolve: PAGB Ribbon
Brian Harvey: "There Must Be a Future"
Best Creative: PAGB Ribbon
Pauline Irvine: "Trauma"
Vic Hainsworth Award: PAGB Ribbon
Christopher Ward: "The Art of Movement"
Popular Vote: PAGB Ribbon
Brian Harvey: "Without You"
Highly Commended
Ken Ash: "St John's Duxford"
Paul Adams: "Late Turner"
Mike Reed: "A Taste of Russia"
Brian Harvey: "Without You"
James Verona: "A Venice Trip"
Jack Taylor: "Where have all the Flowers Gone?"
