Street photography is often associated with black and white imagery, but color has a unique ability to transform everyday urban scenes into something unforgettable. A flash of red crossing a busy intersection, colorful umbrellas in the rain, vibrant clothing against muted surroundings, or the glow of neon lights after sunset can completely change the mood of a photograph.
The Street Life in Color Photo Contest invited photographers from around the world to capture the energy, diversity, and visual excitement of life on the streets through color. From candid moments and spontaneous encounters to carefully observed compositions, the contest celebrated the role that color plays in visual storytelling and urban photography. The competition attracted thousands of submissions and showcased an incredible range of creative approaches to street photography.
This edition was proudly supported by Fotopro, the contest sponsor, whose products are trusted by photographers around the world. Fotopro joined the judging process alongside the TPA team and provided prizes for the winners, helping support photographers who continue to push the boundaries of visual storytelling through their work. The contest's first-place winner received a Fotopro X-go Plus E 2 tripod, while additional prizes included TopPhotoAwards subscriptions and certificates.
1st Place — SANJOY BHATTACHARYA
Sanjoy Bhattacharya's winning image perfectly demonstrates why color can be such a powerful storytelling tool in street photography. The photograph combines strong composition, timing, and vibrant visual elements that immediately draw the viewer into the scene.
What makes the image particularly effective is its ability to balance documentary authenticity with artistic impact. Every element feels naturally observed, yet carefully framed. The colors do not simply decorate the scene—they become an essential part of the narrative.
The photograph captures the energy of urban life while maintaining a sense of structure and visual harmony. It is the kind of image that rewards repeated viewing, revealing new details and relationships within the frame each time.
2nd Place — Joaquín Pastor Genzor
Joaquín Pastor Genzor earned second place with an image that demonstrates exceptional observation and timing. Street photography often depends on recognizing fleeting moments before they disappear, and this photograph captures one of those brief alignments where composition, light, color, and human presence come together perfectly.
The image feels spontaneous while remaining visually refined. The use of color helps organize the scene and guide the viewer's attention, creating a photograph that is both dynamic and easy to explore.
Like many strong street photographs, the image invites viewers to create their own interpretation. It captures a real moment while leaving enough room for curiosity and imagination.
3rd Place — SHIBASISH SAHA
Shibasish Saha's third-place image highlights the beauty that can be found in ordinary moments when viewed through a creative lens. Street photography is often about seeing what others overlook, and this photograph transforms a familiar urban scene into something visually compelling.
The careful use of color, contrast, and framing gives the image a strong sense of atmosphere. Rather than relying on a dramatic event, the photograph succeeds through observation, composition, and the photographer's ability to recognize a meaningful moment.
The result is a photograph that feels authentic, engaging, and deeply connected to the rhythm of everyday life.
The Color of Everyday Life
The winning photographs in the Street Life in Color Photo Contest remind us that extraordinary images are often hiding within ordinary moments. Streets are constantly changing stages filled with stories, interactions, movement, and emotion. Through careful observation and creative use of color, photographers can transform these everyday scenes into powerful visual narratives.
The works of Sanjoy Bhattacharya, Joaquín Pastor Genzor, and Shibasish Saha demonstrate different approaches to street photography, yet all three images share one important quality: they encourage viewers to slow down and notice the beauty, complexity, and humanity of urban life.
Congratulations to all winners, finalists, and participants who helped make the Street Life in Color Photo Contest such a vibrant celebration of street photography and visual storytelling.
