AP's free monthly photo comp Jan '26 - the winners!

16 February 2026

Congratulations to Dorothy Hurdle, and her image Hazy Summer Afternoon which has won AP's free monthly photo comp for January.

Dorothy Hurdle, Hazy summer afternoon — Dorothy Hurdle, *Hazy summer afternoon*

The theme was 'Summer'.

We think the image works so well because the warm, soft editing enhances its summery feel and gives the scene a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

It’s a classic subject, but these kinds of scenes don’t always respond well to heavy-handed treatment. In this case, the restraint in the edit really pays off, allowing the main subject to shine naturally. Well done.

Dorothy wins a 12-month print subscription to AP for taking out the People's choice.

We also chose three special mentions this month.

Keri Down, Summer vibes — Keri Down, *Summer vibes*

Bhaumik Bumia, Storms are Part of OZ Summers — Bhaumik Bumia, *Storms are Part of OZ Summers*

Matthew Canino, Summer sunrise — Matthew Canino, *Summer sunrise*

Over on Facebook, Pat Martin's Coober Peddy took out the People's choice, with more than 50 votes at competition close.

Pat takes home a 12-month digital subscription to AP for winning the People's choice.

If you'd like to enter our free monthly photo comp for February, it's open now and the theme is 'Wild'. You can enter here.