This month’s theme is quite fitting for this time of year… “A Different Christmas”. and we invited Avery Holt as our guest judge.
Holt, based between Lisbon and Melbourne, is a virtual curator and visual culture critic whose work explores the intersection of narrative, place, and perception. With a background in documentary photography and environmental design, Holt has served on juries for international exhibitions and competitions celebrating creative reinterpretations of culture and tradition. Their curatorial philosophy centres on the quiet power of the unexpected — moments where familiar symbols are reframed through light, geography, or imagination.
Drawing inspiration from life across hemispheres, Holt is particularly attuned to the shifting visual language of seasonal and cultural identity. Their approach values both technical mastery and emotional resonance, recognising photography’s ability to translate shared rituals into new, universal contexts. For “A Different Christmas,” Holt sought works that challenge convention while retaining the warmth, wit, and human connection at the heart of the season.
Although this theme, “A Different Christmas”, didn’t strike up the normal vibes with members, those images that were submitted capture the spirit of Christmas seen through a fresh, unexpected lens — where tradition meets sunshine, local culture, and creative reinterpretation.
“Baubles in the Sun” by Nigel Chapman stands out as a striking and elegant expression of the theme, combining classic festive symbols with a distinctly southern-hemisphere atmosphere.
“Pasteis de Nata” by Jan Chapman delights with warmth and wit, transforming a beloved national pastry into a joyful Christmas tableau.
Glyn Parry’s “A Brit at Christmas” humorously contrasts seasonal nostalgia with a summery escape, while Daryl Gabin’s “Golf Xmas” injects playful energy and contemporary flair.
Finally, “Nature’s Christmas” by Kevin Saunders offers a gentle, organic vision of the season, reminding us that festivity can be found in nature’s own colours.
Together, these works redefine what Christmas can look and feel like when viewed from a different world.
Well done to everyone who took part, and congratulations to those who were selected and are featured in the current December edition of the Algarve Plus Magazine.
The next theme for Algarve Plus for January 2026 will be: Viniculture & Wine, and our judge is soon to be confirmed.
Selected & Published Images
Words of Wisdom
1st Place: “Baubles in the Sun” by Nigel Chapman
Why it works: This image nails the theme beautifully. Christmas ornaments — symbols of tradition — are reimagined in a summery, sunlit environment, hanging from a tropical palm frond instead of a pine tree. The concept is instantly clear and fresh.
Composition: Excellent simplicity and balance. The fan-like symmetry of the palm leaf draws the eye to the ornaments, and the saturated blue sky adds vibrant contrast.
Technical: Crisp focus, rich colour contrast, and a great use of natural light.
Storytelling: Effortlessly communicates “Christmas in a warmer climate.”
Suggestion: No major — maybe a slightly tighter crop could emphasise the circular rhythm of the ornaments even more.
2nd Place: “Pasteís de Nata” by Jan Chapman
Why it works: A creative and charming blend of Christmas and local culture. The angel perched atop a “tree” made of Portuguese custard tarts is both whimsical and warm — festive but with a deliciously different twist.
Composition: Strong pyramid form, clear focal point, nice use of depth of field.
Lighting: Natural and inviting, though slightly bright in the highlights.
Storytelling: Brings humour and heart, while clearly saying “this is Christmas, but in my way.”
Suggestion: Slightly reduce exposure or add shadow depth to give the pastries a bit more texture and golden warmth.
3rd Place: “A Brit at Christmas” by Glyn Parry
Why it works: A humorous juxtaposition of Christmas treats (mince pies, champagne) with a sunny poolside setting — immediately reads as “Christmas out of place.”
Composition: Nicely layered depth — the mince pies in the foreground, the pool, and the relaxed figure in the background all tell a story.
Lighting: Warm and natural, though the highlights on the pool tiles verge on overexposed.
Storytelling: Very relatable take on “A Different Christmas” for those experiencing it abroad or in warmer climates.
Suggestion: A slight shift in framing could balance the table and lounger better, avoiding the visual “tilt” toward the left.
4th Place: “Golf Xmas” by Daryl Gabin
Why it works: Playful and clever — a Santa hat atop golf balls with a camera nearby connects leisure, sport, and creativity.
Composition: Strong focus, good use of shallow depth of field.
Lighting: Nicely controlled outdoor light with rich colour tones.
Storytelling: Fun and unexpected, though the Christmas connection relies heavily on the hat, less evocative emotionally than the others.
Suggestion: Perhaps adding one more subtle Christmas element (like tinsel or lights) could elevate the narrative beyond novelty.
5th Place: “Nature’s Christmas” by Kevin Saunders
Why it works: Natural and organic — the red and yellow fruit resemble ornaments, giving a subtle seasonal nod.
Composition: Dense, almost chaotic foliage gives an authentic, wild feel.
Lighting: Nicely dappled but slightly uneven — a few hot spots and shadows compete for attention.
Storytelling: The Christmas idea is there but understated; it requires interpretation rather than immediately evoking the theme.
Suggestion: Simplify the composition by isolating a single branch with the most vivid fruit, increasing focus and visual clarity.
Main Gallery
