An image produced by Professor Paul Wenham-Clarke, renowned photographer and course leader of MA Photography at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has been recognised in three international contests.
The photograph, entitled Muscle and Milk, captures three young mothers breastfeeding their babies in full rugby kit immediately after a match.
Shot in partnership with his wife, Anita Clarke, the image has secured the shortlist in three of the world’s most prestigious photography competitions within a single year, and will be included in an exhibition hosted at London’s Somerset House from 17 April.
Shortlisted for The Sony World Photography Awards 2026, The Association of Photographers (AOP) Open Competition 2025, and The British Photography Awards 2025, Muscle and Milk reflects the rapidly shifting attitudes toward women in sport and the demand for visibility, respect, and equality.
While the British Photography Awards celebrate the best of UK talent, the Sony and AOP awards represent the absolute summit of global and professional industry standards, and to be recognised by both the Sony and the AOP is a rare feat.
Outside the gallery walls and award halls, the image has also resonated strongly with the sporting community. It was voted the Best Post of 2025 by members of the popular rugby-focused Instagram page @pintsandscrums, where it amassed a staggering 5.5 million views.
“This is a tableau of strength and nurture, competition and care, muscle and milk,” Paul says. “Three young mothers in their rugby kit stand just after the final whistle has blown, each breastfeeding her baby. The match is over, but the work never ends.
“Longing for a level playing field, they demand parity. Longing for visibility, respect, and equality. For the right to feed without shame. For the sporting world where motherhood isn’t an interruption but part of the playbook.”
Milk and Muscle will be included in the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition hosted at Somerset House (17 April – 4 May 2026). For more information, visit the Somerset House website.
