Mansions, Country Houses and Chateaux

The light, low and golden, plays a big part in making this image look like a beautiful painting, enhancing both the autumnal colours and the peaceful mood of the shot. The image certainly wouldn't have had the same charm if it had been taken in midday light, so well done to the photographer for choosing the right time for their capture.

I love how the reflection on the body of water looks like a painting, reflecting the colours of the hills rather than the blue sky. Lastly, I love how the mansion is photographed in context, its cute fairy tower highlighted by a shaft of golden light. A fantastic shot well deserving of first place. Well done!

There is nothing not to like about this shot: from the vibrant autumnal colours, to the stunning old manor, to the fog (the perfect finishing touch to an already eerily beautiful image).

I particularly love how the scene is framed by the large trees on both sides, like a natural vignette. And the trees in the background, just making it through the fog, add the perfect depth to the image.

A fantastic shot, well done!

I love how this image stands out from the rest in the contest. While everyone focused on elegant facades and decadent living rooms and master bedrooms, this shot sheds light on the usually hidden part of mansions and palaces: their large kitchens. But this room is just as grand, with its marbles and high ceilings. The shot is very well captured, straight and from a good angle, with the perfect exposure that enhances the diffused natural light and a subtle colour grading to enhance the naturally beautiful warm colour palette made of stone, wood and copper pots. A fantastic shot, well done!