AIB Press Photographer of the Year exhibition returns to Mayo

Ireland’s stories in images for 2025 has returned to Mayo as the Press Photographers Ireland CLG annual exhibition went on display last Friday. It will remain on display until August 26.

The official opening reception will take place this Friday, August 14 and the exhibition will be opened by the Cathaoirleach of the Westport Belmullet Municipal District, Cllr Brendan Mulroy.

Now in its 48th year, the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Award celebrates the very best of Irish press photography. The exhibition features all the winning and shortlisted images covering Irish life, at home and abroad, during 2025 and highlights the dedication and skill of Ireland’s top press photographers, including Westport photographer, Michael McLaughlin and the overall winner, Mark Condren.

Michael McLaughlin picked up two awards, first prize in the Multimedia category and the special ‘Best Use of Technology’ award with his entry ‘The ties that Bind’. Photographer Rynes Walker picked up the ‘Country Life’ award for her entry ‘The One that didn’t get away’ which features young boy, Kyle Kerrigan, catching a ewe whilst herding ewes to the sales ring at Maam Cross Mart for the Connemara/Mayo Blackface Breeders Group Premier Breeding Sale.

Tom Gilligan, Director of Services, Mayo County Council, said, “We are delighted to welcome the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition back to Westport. Exhibitions like this make an important contribution to community life in Mayo, bringing people together through shared stories and experiences, while also enhancing the county's appeal as a destination for visitors. It is particularly fitting to see the achievements of local award-winning photographer Michael McLaughlin recognised on the national stage, showcasing the heritage, community spirit and sense of place that make Mayo so special.” Eilis Marren, Branch Manager, AIB Westport, commented, “Trust is a critical foundation in AIB’s relationship with our customers and is intrinsic to the work of the Press Photographers Ireland in an age of disinformation. With six branches in Mayo, we’re deeply embedded in the community, and it’s a pleasure to be able to support the sharing of this wonderful work with the people of Mayo.” Commenting ahead of the exhibition’s arrival to Westport, Dan Linehan, President, Press Photographers Ireland CLG, said, “We are delighted that the exhibition is visiting Mayo once again. We hope that locals and visitors alike will enjoy browsing the exhibition and viewing the award winning and highly acclaimed photography.” To view the full portfolio of winning and highly commended images from the AIB Press Photographer of Year Award 2026, visit www.pressphotographers.ie.