The winners of the International Pet Photographer of the Year Awards 2022 have been announced, celebrating the artistry of pet photographers worldwide.

With over 2,500 entries from more than 50 countries, the category winners and overall winner have been announced, with Valerie Oberreiter from Austria taking the top spot.

Valerie won the title of Overall Pet Photographer of the year with a series of beautiful horse images, including a striking photograph of a horse in a wintry landscape, and a photograph of a horse leaning down to a woman, both gently glowing in the sunlight.

Oberreiter, who works as a full-time equine photographer, shared what fuels her passion for equine photography: “What I love most about my job is that I get to meet such unique teams of wonderful people and their beautiful horses and can capture their bond the way I see it.”

Kirstie McConnell, award organiser, pet photographer and part of The Pet Photographers Club team, said: “It has been so wonderful to see the pet photography industry growing and thriving, particularly over the last decade.

“We really believe that as an industry and a profession, pet photography is coming into its own. These Awards create the opportunity for us to celebrate the incredible talent of pet photographers around the world, and the joy that animals bring to our lives.

“All those shortlisted should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved within the Awards this year and of course, a huge congratulations is in order for our winners!"

Full details of winners will be available to view on The Pet Photographers Club website.