The Guardian ======================= Image of defiance takes photo prize Charlotte Higgins, arts correspondent Tuesday November 16, 2004 The image of three defiant-looking Japanese schoolgirls has won the Schweppes photographic portrait prize, worth £15,000. The image, by the German-born Jens Lucking, turns the meek Japanese girl of western cliche on its head as the rebellious trio stare with attitude into the camera. Sandy Nairne, director of the National Portrait Gallery, under the aegis of which the award is run, said: "The thing that really stood out about the winning photograph was the beauty of the composition of the three figures; there is something balanced, almost classical, about their arrangement. Also the central figure is incredibly direct - the way she just stares right at the camera - and that is very strong." Lucking, 32, who met the three subjects through a mutual friend while working in Japan this summer, said: "The photograph is set up but I didn't want it to appear too posed or fashion-like. Part of my style is to push naturalism a bit, but I still like things to look believable and realistic. "I'd never met these women before, but I hope I've managed to capture something of their characters. They all came across as strong females so that's how I show them - self-confident, almost arrogant. I was desperate to avoid that cute, looking down, Japanese schoolgirl thing, and I think this portrait is the antithesis of that." The Schweppes prize is the only international award for photographic portraiture, according to Mr Nairne. Any photographer, amateur or professional, can submit work, which is chosen by a panel of judges. Mr Nairne said: "It was an amazing process of going through almost 8,000 photographs. All are judged anonymously." The second prize was won by British-born James Reeve for Landmine Amputee Team, taken while working on a project in Kabul. British photographer Angus Fraser came third for Cassius and Julia. Danish-born Henrik Knud sen won fourth prize. The photographic portrait prize exhibition opens tomorrow.