Publication

Getty Images

Year

2019

Category

Nikon-Walkley Press Photographer of the Year

From his base in Istanbul, Chris McGrath has been well placed to cover some of the year’s biggest stories. But proximity and luck will only get you so far, and this body of work shows a photojournalist at the height of his powers. The judges found McGrath’s selection, spanning Turkey, Syria, Kosovo and Hong Kong, to be insightful and timely — a powerful reflection of the year that was. He immersed himself in the action, getting so close to his subjects that he could reveal tension and emotion.

Chris McGrath started his photography career at the Sunshine Coast Daily in Queensland. After completing his newspaper cadetship and a diploma in photography, he joined Getty Images as a staff photographer in Sydney. During his 19 years with Getty, McGrath has been based in its New York, Singapore and Tokyo offices. Since 2015, he has worked out of Istanbul, covering Turkey and the Middle East. Among many honours, McGrath was nominated for the 2019 World Press Photo of the Year and won first prize in the General News category of the 2019 World Press Photo awards.

Judges’ comments:

“How lucky is Chris McGrath to have covered some of the year’s biggest global events? But he positions himself so he’s in the right place to capture the most dynamic images. It’s exciting work; a strong selection.”