Tender is all about healthy relationships and this Valentine’s Day, we wanted to bring these values to life on camera.

We asked primary and secondary school students to get creative by snapping their own photos of what #LoveLooksLike to them.

From caring friendships to family celebrations, we received so many inspiring images that showcase the joy and the wonder of love.

Our judging panel included star actress and Tender Ambassador Amy Leigh-Hickman, professional photographer Rob Baker Ashton, Ryan and Ottilie from our Youth Board and Tender CEO Susie McDonald MBE. From all the wonderful entries, they chose five finalists – including one winning photo and two runners up.

Our winner

Chosen from all our brilliant entries, our winning photo was taken by Zac and Fraser from Brentwood School, Essex.

Our judging panel said:

‘We asked for creativity and that’s exactly what these boys did. Their photo is unique, engaging and, most of all, joyful! We loved the thought that went into creating this image – it was the clear winner.’

Celebrity judge Amy-Leigh Hickman added:

‘It was incredibly hard to select our winner, but Zac and Fraser’s image stood out from the crowd. It shows creativity, respect and genuine happiness which is what this competition is all about.’

Runners up

The judges also selected the two runners up below by Amber and Nathaniella, both from Brentwood School.

Commenting on these photos, the judges said:

‘Amber’s entry [left] is a powerful visual moment. Its strength is its simplicity; a loving relationship captured in a beautiful setting. Nathaniella’s image [right] is warm and genuine. We loved the authenticity and the clear bond between them, a true showcase of what #lovelookslike!’

Winners and runners-up will be invited to the Tender Awards 2025 alongside many celebrity guests.

Finalists

Photos by Axl and Mickey, and by Braxden (all from Acle Academy) were also recognised by the judges.

The judges commented:

‘Axl and Mickey’s image [left] is such a heart warming photo. A clear and creative portrait of a healthy, respectful partnership. It also takes skill to capture a moment like Braxden’s [right]. We see not only the love between the animals, but the use of multimedia shows the love the photographer has for them too.’ 

Axl, Mickey and Braxden have each won a £50 theatre voucher.

Susie McDonald MBE, CEO of Tender, said:

Tender CEO Susie McDonald MBE said: ‘Every Valentine’s Day, Tender shines a light on the joy of love in all its shapes and sizes across family, friends, pets and much more. This year, we asked young people to capture this on camera – and we’re so happy with the results!

‘Our winning image is thoughtful and innovative – it illustrates the power of creativity in showcasing healthy relationships. Our runners up are both warm, impactful images that bring a smile to everyone’s face.

‘All children and young people deserve to learn about healthy relationships, and lead lives free of abuse. This can be a challenging mission, but all these entries give me incredible hope for the future.’

Star of Ackley Bridge and Netflix’s You, Amy-Leigh Hickman said:

 ‘I was so impressed with all the entries. We received such a creative, diverse range of photos, showcasing what #LoveLooksLike today.

‘I have so much support for Tender’s ethos – using creativity to help young people learn about healthy relationships. Their work empowers so many young people to lead respectful, compassionate relationships – as you can see in these powerful photographs. I was thrilled to help judge this special Valentine’s Day competition.’ 

If you have any questions, please contact katevine@tender.org.uk.