The Art of Abandonment Photography Contest Winners | TopPhotoAwards

The 2025 "The Art of Abandonment" photography contest by TopPhotoAwards invited photographers worldwide to explore the haunting allure of forsaken spaces. With 1,137 submissions, the competition showcased a diverse array of images capturing the silent stories of decay and resilience.

Kieron Medina's "old village" earned the 1st place, depicting a melancholic scene that encapsulates the stillness of abandonment. Phil Reeds secured 2nd place with "Endloess doors Kolmanskop," offering a glimpse into the endless corridors of a deserted settlement. The 3rd place went to Michael Makshanov for "Choral singing," a composition that resonates with the echoes of a bygone era.

The top 10 also featured compelling works like "Remnants of Empire" by Sara Noor and "Rethoric of oblivion" by Jose Luis Mendez Fernandez, each narrating unique tales of deserted locales. These photographs not only highlight the aesthetic beauty found in decay but also evoke a sense of nostalgia and contemplation.
You're welcome to explore and enjoy ALL TOP 20 award-winning photographs that breathe new life into what the world has left behind - VIEW ALL TOP 20

🥇 1st Place: "Old Village" by Kieron Medina

Kieron Medina's "Old Village" masterfully portrays the melancholic stillness of an abandoned settlement. The image's composition and lighting evoke a sense of timelessness, drawing viewers into the silent narrative of a once-thriving community now reclaimed by nature.

🥈 2nd Place: "Endless Doors, Kolmanskop" by Phil Reeds

Phil Reeds takes us through the haunting corridors of Kolmanskop, a deserted diamond mining town. "Endless Doors" captures a series of doorways leading into the unknown, symbolizing the passage of time and the layers of history left behind.

🥉 3rd Place: "Choral Singing" by Michael Makshanov

In "Choral Singing," Michael Marshanov presents an abandoned space where the echoes of music seem to linger. The photograph's composition and use of light suggest a narrative of lost voices and forgotten melodies, resonating with viewers on a deeply emotional level.

🌟 Top 10 Finalists

"Remnants of Empire" by Sara Noor: A poignant depiction of decaying grandeur, highlighting the transient nature of power.
"Rhetoric of Oblivion" by Jose Luis Mendez Fernandez : An artistic exploration of memory and loss within an abandoned setting.
"The Abandoned Kitchen" by Phil Reeds: A still life capturing the quiet desolation of a once-bustling domestic space.
"Mills" by Kata Posfai: An atmospheric portrayal of industrial decay, emphasizing textures and shadows.
"Old Car" by Anastasiia Golubeva: A nostalgic image of a rusting vehicle, symbolizing journeys ended.
"Forgotten Land I" by Gabriel Baker Bennett: A landscape where nature reclaims human-made structures, blending beauty and melancholy.
"Hashima Phone & TV" by Cécile Lavrut Pardo: A snapshot of obsolete technology in a forsaken environment, evoking a sense of eerie stillness.