Nature

Dianne’s understanding of light, shape, texture and form are all combined in her stunning composition up close and personal with the humble dandelion. The dandelion is perhaps one of the most recognised perennial weeds which cover the fields, scrub and woodlands across the UK. But it’s the personal interpretation of her subject that’s so remarkably striking in this image. I almost feel the subtle silhouette of silk like tufts seem to dance with the flowing stems; somewhat reminiscent of ancient Chinese puppet theatre. A sensitive and tender study which dances with the shadows.

With over ten thousand entries submitted in this competition showcasing an incredible array of talent, choosing a winner was never going to be easy. But Simon’s stunning composition entitled ‘The Burn Through’ just seduced the senses, washed through the soul; and for a moment at least I was immersed within the lingering mist as it clung to still waters at the break of day. With soft pastel tones that permeate the frame combined with the subtle relief of differing textures; it’s a beautifully observed image which in my mind simply evokes mood and atmosphere. Huge congratulations to Simon as a very worthy and deserving winner of this competition.

It was Andy’s first visit to the ‘Old Man of Storr’ on the Isle of Skye. I sometimes feel it’s all too easy to forget the amount of preparation, planning, physical exertion and time which provides the back story to an image such as this. Take into account the prevailing weather conditions and what your left with is a precarious balance of factors which ultimately came good in Andy’s compelling composition of this iconic landmark. Again, it’s the relationship between all the differing elements in this scene which takes you by the scruff of the neck and literally pulls you into the frame. I can almost imagine walking along those winding paths and rocky outlets as I tentatively make my way before the looming storm breaks. An outstanding image that encompasses incredible depth, mood and feel.

Gilbert’s study of ‘The guards’ immediately caught my attention as unlike many other entries encompassed within the ‘landscape’ genre it seemed to proudly defy convention. There can be little doubt I’ve had the privilege in this competition studying some remarkable images of landscapes taken from across the globe. Technically accomplished and outstanding in their own right they nonetheless for the most part seemed to follow a certain formula or convention. Gilbert’s image on the other hand I felt was distinct. There’s a sense of beauty in the stripped back trees laid bare taking centre stage here. Juxtaposed against brooding clouds it’s a relationship in my mind that simply invokes an incredible sense of foreboding in what is a powerful and accomplished image.

Vlado chose a comparatively shallow depth of field centralised on the point of arc of this spider’s web as it hangs delicately in the balance between the reeds. Minute water droplets help widen and accentuate both shape and form of the web, juxtaposed against a cool, dark background. The stillness evoked by Vlado’s image is palpable and unlike many other entrants who submitted entries of a similar theme he has approached his subject from the side as opposed to head on. The fall-off in in focus really lends weight to the composition underlying an inherent sense of fragility which runs throughout the frame. An outstanding image captured with considered expertise.

Antonio’s image of fungi dancing in the soft bokeh of morning light is a sheer delight. Having adopted a low perspective looking upwards towards his subject there is an energy within this composition that almost makes me want to break into song. You can almost feel the fungi pushing or dancing towards the light. Differences in lens aberrations and aperture shape can cause very different effects. Antonio clearly has used this technique to his advantage having adopted a shallow depth of field to reveal a stunning composition that simply sings its way into my top ten.

Giorigio’s composition of flamingoes feeding in the Amboseli National Park is simply inspired. I’ve always felt photography is as much about elimination and exclusion as it is about inclusion. No more so is this case in wildlife photography when the temptation is all too often to crop your subject tightly and fill the frame. Of course this approach can lend itself to some images; but it’s the narrative, drama or story which can often be lost. Giorigio’s use of negative space, together with the positioning and poise of his two subjects along the bottom third of frame works really well here. The subtle reflection from still waters and considered conversion to monochrome complete the scene. An understated yet utterly compelling composition captured with incredible expertise.

The planets have aligned in Jaquie’s compelling image of this American buffalo as it tentatively negotiates its way through the snow during the height of winter. Some of the most striking wildlife images in my view always tell a great story or otherwise possess a strong underlying narrative. This scene which Jackie has so skilfully observed and captured exudes that in spades. I particularly like the way she has offset her subject slightly to the right and adopted a relatively tight crop drawing the eye into frame. A compelling composition that deservedly resides in my top ten selection.

Pin sharp detail and an intense palate of strong contrasting colours compel the viewer to take a closer look at this most remarkable composition. A technical tour de force it’s interesting to note that this image was taken at F14 but the selected depth of field must only be around 3-4mm. The focus, patience, skill and precision to achieve such an accomplished composition is commendable alone. If we also take into account the use of light and timing, what we are left with is a jaw dropping encounter with this ‘mantis’ like creature as it voraciously feeds on its prey. A rare invitation into the ubiquitous world of insects that underpins the ecology of the natural world.

I was really taken with Helen’s interpretation of the ‘Stormy seas’ captured in her image along the Cornish coast. It’s perhaps the combination of flow, movement and muted colours which capture so well the never-ending beat of the waves that characterise the shoreline. I’m not sure if Helen took this image when hand holding her camera as it may well be the case, she added some intentional movement to accentuate the mood and feeling of her image. Either way it’s a beautiful composition that simply exudes a sense of peace, balance and perfect harmony.

I really liked Tom’s abstract composition of this pebble on sand. It underlies the fact that you don’t need expensive camera gear or kit to achieve what in this case is a compelling image which wouldn’t look out of place hung in some ‘bijou’ gallery on the banks of the River Seine. Accessibility and experimentation is very much the key here which Tom has clearly demonstrated with considered aplomb. A moment in time, keenly observed and conveniently captured simply using his mobile phone.

Sometimes it’s all too easy to ignore the abundance of wildlife that literally is on our doorstep or otherwise frequents the garden or parks close to home. James’ attention to detail of this Mandarin Duck is particularly well observed with strong contrasting colours, shapes and textures filling the frame. It certainly couldn’t have been easy to position himself low and close enough to his subject, but his patience was finally rewarded in this strong composition. Whilst the image is a little soft possibly due to the tight crop, it doesn’t detract from James’ keen observation and creative insight.

Kim’s image certainly invites the viewer to take a second, deeper look in this captivating composition. I was intrigued to learn about the technique used in ‘post’ to achieve the selective use of colour which lends itself to the overall feel and mood Kim has created here. It’s a very accomplished image, keenly observed that underlies the ever-changing shift in seasons under the woodland canopy.

How could I not mention Steve’s adrenalin fuelled, awe inspiring ladybird on steroids as it charges out of frame in relentless pursuit, trampling under foot all asunder. It’s like something from a 1950’s low budget horror movie that challenges perceptions and casts our subject in a wholly different light. It’s a superb image which is complimented by a tight use of crop together with the raised wing position that only signals menace and intention. The one question that remains is how fast can you run?