Walking into the premises of the Edinburgh Photographic Society at 68 Great King Street, you immediately feel the weight of history. This exhibition has been running since 1861—that’s 161 years of photographers pushing the boundaries of what a single frame can communicate.

I didn’t just visit this year to admire the work; I went there to find out what separates a "good" photo from one that is truly "world-class." To do that, I sat down with three expert judges and a featured participant to deconstruct the DNA of a winning image.

What the Judges Are Really Looking For

One of the biggest takeaways from my interviews was that technical perfection is just the baseline. In 2026, anyone can take a sharp, well-exposed photo. The judges at the 161st Exhibition were looking for something deeper: Visual Impact and Narrative.

They aren't just looking at your composition; they are looking for your voice. Does the image ask a question? Does it make the viewer feel the cold of a Highland morning or the tension in a street portrait? If you want to level up, stop focusing solely on your settings and start focusing on the feeling you want to provoke.

Transitioning from Photographer to Storyteller

I also had the privilege of speaking with one of this year's featured creators. We discussed a pivotal shift every creator must make: moving from simply "taking" photos to "telling" stories.

A storyteller doesn't just show up and click. They research, they wait for the light that matches the mood, and they understand the "why" behind the shot. Whether it’s an award-winning monochrome landscape or a vibrant colour study, the goal is to create a moment that stands the test of time.

Why This Matters to You

Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting your journey with a drone or a DSLR, understanding these "world-class" standards is key to providing more value to your clients. When I produce a video or a photo set for a brand, I apply these exact principles—ensuring every piece of content tells a consistent, clear, and powerful story.

Watch the full deep dive here: https://youtu.be/G6vo2m7ErAk

I’ve packed this video with cinematic looks at the exhibition floor and direct advice from the judges. If you want to see the technical nuances that catch a judge's eye, this is for you.