AN award-winning photographer from Clynder has snapped up two more trophies following a virtual prize-giving ceremony for industry specialists.

Camera fanatics from across the country celebrated their achievements in the annual Master Photographers Association (MPA) awards last Tuesday, after the original presentation - which was due to take place in Grangemouth on March 24 - was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Almost 1,200 images were entered from Scottish photographers and a virtual ceremony saw Gordon Russell crowned as the winner in the Complete Portrait and Judge's Choice categories in 2020, along with five additional awards of merit in the Baby Portrait and Most Promising Children's Portrait categories.

Gordon, who runs Angus and Amelia Photography from a studio near Rosneath, earned 13 merit awards from the MPA last year as well as one for excellence.

READ MORE: Photographer Gordon captures 14 prizes at industry awards

He told the Advertiser: “It was an absolute honour to receive two category wins and trophies from the Master Photographers Association awards this year.

"My submissions are all from commissioned client work so it's lovely to know that the images I am producing for those who visit my studio are worthy of national recognition from world renowned judges.

"I'm just over the moon.”

The MPA has helped develop some of the UK's leading photographers for more than 65 years and the latest instalment of the annual awards bash covered 22 different categories, including animals, pets, weddings, newborn babies and commercial photography, as well as the four top awards; Portrait Photographer of the Year, Wedding Photographer of the Year, General Photographer of the Year and the Overall Photographer of the Year.

READ MORE: Helensburgh hosts new camera club's first exhibition

Photographers submitted both digital and printed photographs, which were subsequently sent on to a panel of independent industry experts, who applied the usual high standard of scrutiny in order to decide on the 2020 award winners.

Fiona McKean, chair of Master Photographers Association in Scotland, said: “We are in the middle of a coronavirus pandemic, which is significantly impacting on our daily lives and work.

"Our thoughts are very much with those most involved in and affected by this terrible outbreak.

"In line with current advice and to ensure we each play our part in protecting lives, the work of our members has come to an abrupt but temporary stop.

READ MORE: Digital photography club shows off its top Helensburgh scenes

"The glitzy awards ceremony we had planned for March 24 was also postponed.

"As a committee, we agreed that it was important, if not more important at this time, to continue to support our members and so after much deliberation, we decided to host a virtual awards ceremony to recognise and celebrate the work of photographers in Scotland.

"I would like to congratulate all finalists and winners and I hope that by holding our virtual ceremony we have been able to raise spirits and inspire photographers to continue to excel in their field.

"On behalf of the MPA, I send my very best wishes to you all.”

READ MORE: Click here for all the latest news headlines from across Helensburgh and Lomond