A CUMBRIAN photographer has scooped a coveted British Photography award. 

Lyth Valley-based Tiree Dawson received the award for Best Photographer in the Weddings category at a black tie event in London’s Dorchester Hotel.

The winning image is of bride and groom Stacey and Billy taken at their elopement at Storrs Hall Hotel near Bowness last October.

This was Tiree’s first time receiving an award at the British Photography Awards, having been shortlisted once before.

The competition aims to celebrate the best of British photography and help raise money for The Princes Trust and various charities selected by entrants from a given list. Tiree chose to support the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust with her entry.

Ms Dawson said: "I was so excited the entry was selected for the shortlist. Although it's not the most wildly creative or technically advanced shot I’ve ever taken, I'm pleased they chose this image. It’s typical of the type of wedding shot I take in the wild weather of the Lake District, and although it looks quite simple, there is a huge amount of effort and experience that lies behind it."

Tiree, who has photographed almost a thousand weddings, knows there are many challenges that photographers face at any wedding especially when the weather plays a part too, like it had in this winning photograph.

She said: "When a couple are faced with bad weather on their wedding day, they rely on the great teamwork of their suppliers to keep things running smoothly and happily. Behind an image like this lies the calm humour of the registrars, the reassuring care of the wedding co-ordinators, venue staff, the upbeat nature of hair and make-up artists, and a whole lot more.

"When it comes to the role of the photographer, they have to know how to direct the couple efficiently but naturally to minimise the time they are out in the elements. They need to know how to get the shots they need quickly and without putting the couple and of course their camera gear at risk.

"It’s a fine balance and not easy to get right so to not only be shortlisted but to win this award is something I’m incredibly proud of."