Young people from across the UK are being invited to capture their journeys and share their creativity as the National Railway Museum launches the third Young Railway Photographer of the Year competition.
Open to UK residents aged 25 and under, the competition celebrates the next generation of photographic talent and encourages young people to explore the railways through their own lens, whether using a professional camera or a smartphone.
This year’s theme, The Journey and the Destination, invites entrants to consider how railways connect people, places and communities, and to share the moments that make those journeys meaningful.
For the first time, the competition will include a new 12 and under category, making it easier than ever for younger photographers to take part. Entrants to this category can now submit just a single image, rather than the portfolio that was a requirement in previous years, and all entries will be submitted through the National Railway Museum’s website.
Winning photographs will be displayed at the National Railway Museum in York and Locomotion in Shildon, throughout August 2027, giving young photographers the opportunity to see their work showcased in one of the world’s leading railway collections.
“Young Railway Photographer of the Year is all about encouraging creativity, curiosity and new perspectives on the railways,” said Craig Bentley, director of the National Railway Museum.
“Whether you’re photographing your daily journey, a family day out, a station close to home or a dramatic railway landscape, we want to see the world through your eyes.
“This year’s competition is more accessible than ever before. You don’t need specialist equipment, and you don’t need to be an experienced photographer. If you’ve got a story to tell through a photograph, we’d love to see it.”
The competition is open across three age groups: 12 years and under, 13-18 and 19-25. A panel of judges from the worlds of photography, railways and the creative industries will select the winning entries in April 2027.
Young Railway Photographer of the Year is organised by the National Railway Museum in partnership with the Railway Photographic Society, who initiated the first competition. It is supported by leading organisations from across the railway and photography sectors.
Last year’s competition attracted entries from far and wide, and showcased an impressive range of creative and technical talent, with winners receiving photography equipment, unique railway experiences, and national recognition for their work.
The competition opened on Monday 12 October 2026 and closes on 4 April 2027.
For full details, competition rules and entry information, visit: www.railwaymuseum.org.uk
Image credit: National Railway Museum