The Macallan has announced the winner of its Masters of Photography ‘The Last Word’ competition as Martin Faltejsek, from the Czech Republic, for his image entitled Personality. The competition attracted almost 1,000 entries, over 2,500 images and 2,625 public votes.

The global competition was launched in celebration of The Macallan’s third Masters of Photography Series, a collaboration with the world’s most famous photographer, Annie Leibovitz.

Celebrating Annie Leibovitz’s world famous portraits, photography aficionados were invited to upload a portrait they have taken with one word - ‘The Last Word’ - capturing the mood of their photograph. The theme ‘The Last Word’ reflects The Macallan’s standing as the last word in luxury; the ultimate Scotch for the most memorable drinking occasion.

The global competition attracted an overwhelming response with over 2,600 votes cast by the public to shortlist the top 50 images. These were then reviewed by selectors from The Royal Photographic Society: Roy Robertson HonFRPS, President, Leo Palmer FRPS FPSA MPSA and Vanessa Slawson FRPS FBPPA ASWPP AFIAP DPAGB.

The judges said of the winner and the competition entries;
“The competition was very difficult to judge. The variety of subject matter and approach of the photographers provided the three selectors with an interesting but challenging task. A combination of great ideas and sound technique resulted in an excellent set of pictures. The competition was so fierce that many, quite outstanding images just failed to make the top ten positions. The winners should, quite rightly, be delighted that their work has been recognised”.

“The spontaneous yet controlled nature of [the winning] shot is very appealing. The setting and colour harmony works well to create a visually stimulating and thought provoking image.”

Martin’s photograph wins him and a friend two nights stay in Edinburgh before being taken to the home of The Macallan, Easter Elchies House, situated on the banks of the Spey. Here Martin will be treated to a full distillery tour and photography themed visit, sampling a selection of The Macallan's finest whiskies. In addition, he will also receive a Fujifilm X-Pro1 camera.

To see the other winners and entrants visit: http://www.themastersofphotography.com/winners/