Architectural Photographer Gerry O’Leary Wins Top AP Almanac prize for the 2nd consecutive year.

The Maraya Concert Hall, as the world’s largest mirrored structure, exemplifies the breathtaking potential of architectural design in harmony with nature.

While Gerry is undoubtedly humbled by his recent accolade, it’s important to recognise that his career has been punctuated by a series of international awards.

His unwavering passion for capturing the inherent beauty and symbiosis between
architecture and the environment remains the driving force behind his work. Gerry is
sincerely grateful for the continuous support and recognition he has received, and he
remains steadfast in his dedication to the art of architectural photography, tirelessly
striving to illuminate the inherent splendour of our built environment.

Judge Celeste Bolt explains the points she awarded this image, saying “I love the horizon line has been honoured in this shot, with a gently faded light quality that doesn’t overpower the viewer, tempering the overpowering impact of the building.” Judge Stewart Hicks shares “This is a stunning photograph where building, landscape, and humans meld into a single whole.”
About Ap Almanac:
Founded by renowned Los Angeles photographer Mike Kelley in 2018 as a hub for architectural photographers, APALMANAC is an international resource that “takes a critical look at the craft of architectural photography”.

Gerry O’Leary is based in the United Arab Emirates; he can be reached by email at gerry@gerryoleary.com.

Renowned master of light and UAE - based photographer Gerry O’Leary has added two more distinguished awards for his collection, bestowed by APALMANAC, the architectural photography almanac.

Founded by renowned Los Angeles photographer Mike Kelley in 2018 as a hub for architectural photographers, APALMANAC is an international resource that “takes a critical look at the craft of architectural photography”. In 2021, APALMAN AC inaugurated its first worldwide photography exhibition in 2021 to determine the best single image by an architectural photographer and the best collection of images in a single collection by one architectural photographer. Competition was fierce with en tries from all over the globe.

For the Photo of the Year 2021, ALPALMANAC sought images that “powerfully communicate the sense of place, beauty and design prowess inherent in our architectural world.” Gerry’s photograph of the Mosque of Light, designed by Dabbagh Architects took first prize, with $1,500 USD prize money and the first annual APALMANAC Photo of the Year Trophy.

The judges also praised Gerry for his work, with judge Eric Reinholdt noting his “strong composition and use of light to highligh t the forms and textured surface,” while Holly Ladue admired the drama in the photo and shared how impressed she was with how the image, “captures the details in the white stone façade of the mosque.”

Gerry also received the runner - up award for 2021 Project of the Year for his series on the Mosque of Light by Dabbagh Architects. Gerry observed, “The assignment was to photograph a small contemporary new mosque in an unlikely industrial location of Dubai. It was not as easy as it might look. I revisited with the architect and other subjects as I needed to add the human element to fully articulate the story.”

Judge Aidan Imanova shared, “This series of images ticks all the boxes: visual consistency, technical proficiency, as well as being able to translate a feeling of the place through photography. The photographer’s use of the camera strengthens the spirit of the building and truly captures its beauty.” while Eric remarked, “The handling of white balance animates the stark white forms. I love the interplay between crisp shadows of day and warm illumination at night.”

Gerry is delighted to receive the prize of $500 and the beautifully - designed runner - up APALMANC Project of the Year trophy.

Of course, Gerry is no stranger to international awards having amassed several others over his illustrious career. He holds the esteemed title of Master Qualified European Photographer, one of just 13 in Europe and only two of those are in architecture.

Gerry O’Leary is based in the United Arab Emirates; he can be reached by email at gerry@gerryoleary.com .