A SALISBURY photographer was snap happy after picking up a prestigious award.

Charlene Thornborough picked up the top prize in the Private Events category at the Royal Institute of British Architects in London, held by The Event Photography Awards.

The judges were wowed by her heartwarming image, Silence is Golden, taken at a Christening at St Thomas’s Church in Salisbury.

“I feel absolutely honored to not only have been shortlisted but to actually win my category and receive my award in front of so many talented photographers,” Charlene said.

“I wouldn’t ever have thought, a few years ago when I first picked up a camera, that I would be in London receiving a national award.

Silence is Golden, left, won the award for Charlene, right. Pictures: Charlene Thornborough/DWGH Images

“It just shows what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it and have the right people backing and supporting you and your goals.”

The Event Photography Awards are the only awards worldwide dedicated to Event Photography and attracted more than 2,500 entrants with more than 130 being shortlisted and put on show at RIBA London on the night.

Charlene (Cleo_Capture Photography) is Salisbury city centre-based at the award-winning salon, The Hair Extension Cave, in Silver Street.