It was a breezy Wednesday evening in December; a night alive with anticipation and electric energy as Lunar Studios opened its doors to a gathering of the brightest creative minds from across Sydney. More than a hundred industry leaders and artists had come together for an evening that celebrated the future of image-making: the RUSSH 2025 Creative Showcase.

Guests were treated to roaming glasses of red, white and sparkling from Handpicked Wines, Callington Mill whisky, and skewered Gildas, all while taking turns in a retro-style photo booth, courtesy of Camera House, and exploring an electrifying installation that featured the all-new Omoda 9, its boot filled with myriad photography paraphernalia – from BEARE PARK and Loewe styling garments, to Camera House equipment, some sleek RIMOWA luggage, and even a couple of RUSSH Magazine issues to inspire some on-set creation.

At the heart of the night, however, were the three exceptional image-makers: the winners of our 2025 Creative Showcase. Each of these creative minds, whose work challenged conventional ideas and ventured into new territories of storytelling, took home a trophy – sculptural, avant-garde and carved from the bonnet of an Omoda 9 – a symbol of their excellence and vision.

Who were the 2025 winners?

The evening kicked off with the announcement of the Judge’s Choice award, James Watts, whose work, ‘High Fashion, It’s a Flight Risk,’ captivated the judges with its dynamic subversion of fashion archetypes associated with utilitarian dress. Watts earned a $5,000 grant, courtesy of Omoda, to further pursue his creative aspirations.

Our evening's Reader’s Choice award went to photographer Stephanie Pederson for her evocative exploration piece: ‘The Female Gaze.’ Through her lens, Pederson was inspired by Laura Mulvey’s cinematic women – highlighting the strength and nuance of the female gaze. Pederson's recognition came with a Fujifilm Camera Kit, provided by Camera House.

Bianca Murphy took home the evening's Editor’s Commendation award for her striking series ‘Maasai,’ influenced by her stylist Tyra's family’s tribal background and familial roots. Her work was hand-selected by RUSSH Editor-in-Chief Jess Blanch for its dynamism, creativity and striking originality, and Murphy received a four-night stay at a Collection by TFE Hotel, with daily breakfast included, courtesy of TFE Hotels.

All three winners were also awarded with a spread in the upcoming March 2026 issue of RUSSH Magazine, affirming their remarkable talent and the bright futures ahead of them.

Our image-makers panel talk

But the evening was not just about trophies and accolades, however. It was about sparking conversation.

RUSSH’s Executive Fashion Director, Hannah Cooper, opened the evening with a passionate address about the importance of supporting emerging creatives. “The Australian Arts community contributes $122.3 billion to our economy, with the fashion sector alone contributing $27.2 billion. We do important work, and more importantly, we are the joy-makers,” she proclaimed, setting the tone for an evening of celebration.

"We do important work, and more importantly, we are the joy-makers."

Cooper led a panel discussion, joined by a trio of industry stalwartts: RUSSH contributing editor and photographer Kitty Callaghan, photographer Mia Rankin, and the multi-hyphenate artist Mikka Byarugaba (also known as @mikkapedia). Together, they delved into the complexities of modern image-making, exploring the role of authenticity in a world saturated with digital content, and the influence of AI on the future of photography.

Amid the discussions and celebrations, the evening was punctuated by moments of connection – including a the snapping of memories with one of Fujifilm's Quicksnap disposable cameras, handed out to guests on arrival. Those in attendance – ranging from sculptural artist Midori Goto to actor Annabel Wolfe, baker Valentine Fodor and photographer Rob Tennent – mingled in a vibrant atmosphere, exchanging ideas and stories; a moment to refuel the next wave of creativity.

The evening was a testament to the unyielding spirit of creativity. It was a night that celebrated the bold visions and boundless imagination of creative minds who are reshaping the landscape of image-making. And for James Watts, Stephanie Peterson, and Bianca Murphy, this was just the beginning of a new chapter in their already remarkable journeys.