A silver win at the oscars of photography

If ever there was a moment to remind yourself you were on the right track, this was it.

On Friday as I walked into one of the tastiest dinners of my life on a private island in the Maldives (I know, I know), I checked my phone - 'Silver winner - Jerome Maas!' was tagged on an Instagram post. That's how I found out I'd won silver in the Open category at 'The Oscars of Photography' - The AOP Awards 2025.

What made this even more surreal was that I had planned to be at the ceremony in London, but, as these things happen, a client project came in for the exact dates so I had to cancel.

That project was a very exciting one - a lifestyle campaign production in the Maldives - so I was on location in the Indian Ocean experiencing the island for myself before heading back next month for the shoot itself.

I walked into the restaurant after seeing this news on my phone, to be handed a glass of champagne, followed by an incredible tasting menu by renowned chef Gauchan de Silva. As I sat staring at the horizon and watching the crystal clear waters lapping at the spaces around me, I couldn't help but feel the surrealness of the moment. (See the video below for the moment it landed).

For those that have followed my journey you'll know it's been long, winding and varied. Walking away from my 2nd start up as CEO 3 years ago to dedicate my life to one behind the lens was a big thing for me, but time and time again I am reminded it was exactly the right thing to do. And this was perhaps the biggest reminder yet.

Congrats to all of the winners on the night. It's an honour to sit amongst such talent whilst being recognised for my work in this field.

You can see all the winning images from the night on the AOP Instagram here. With my winning images shown below.

Until next time,

J x

'WE ARE ONE'

This ongoing series explores the human body and its connection to nature – specifically around our relative insignificance in both size of physical being and, metaphorically, the ego.

Depicting otherwise famous models in an anonymous yet dramatic natural setting, I've taken the focus away from the individual and more to their state of being within the landscapes. Their connection to nature creating a sense of wonder whilst also challenging our perception of importance, status, connection and reason for being.

Who is the real model in these photos? The person or the landscape? And how does that make you think about your own sense of self and your connection and role within nature and its increasingly important need to be seen and protected? Who is more fragile – human or nature?