New Joiners - Animals #828
Caron Steele

New Joiners - Animals #828

August 2025

There’s an intensity in this frame that feels almost sculptural. The Hens press forward into the light as their bright white feathers glow against the darkened coop. The brilliant reds on the faces add bold strokes of color, creating a mid tone contrast with the darks and whites.. It’s an image that transforms the ordinary into something more powerful.

Entry 25276100
17th
5

The composition is elegant here, with the S-curve of the flamingo’s neck leading the viewer directly into its intense yellow eye. The pairing of two birds in a similar posture adds depth and symmetry without distraction. Rich, saturated reds glow against the dark and low key background, creating a strong visual.

This shot has lots of energy. The Cedar Waxwing is captured with the berry in mid-air between its bill . The time is impeccable, freezing an instant that feels both playful and elegant. The vibrant red cherries against lush green foliage add richness and contrast with the bird’s sleek plumage.

Crowd
winner

This is such a powerful moment that shows off the character of a Beaver. The wet fur glistens with texture, and the branch in its grip gives context to its industrious nature. The soft ripples and golden reflections in the water add atmosphere, balancing realism with a bit of artistry. An intimate capture of a hardworking animal in its element.

Entry 25279727
24th
2

This frame stands out for its personality. The alpaca leans into the composition with a playful, almost humorous presence, contrasting beautifully with the vast, moody landscape. The monochrome tones highlight texture and light, keeping the focus on expression and setting. A strong example of how character can carry an image.

Entry 25284803
78th
5

A beautifully serene portrait. The Hare emerges from the soft blur of grasses like a ghost of the meadow, its alert gaze and open eye taking center stage in the scene. The muted greens frame it naturally, creating an image that feels both delicate and alive. An exciting encounter for sure.

Entry 25288389
57th
4
Entry 25289770
51st
2
Entry 25289874
10th
22

The side profile of this Angelfish is executed perfectly, showing off the fish’s natural symmetry and texture. Against the velvety black, the neon highlights and spotted pattern stand out with luminous intensity. It feels like a floating work of art, suspended in silence. A powerful example of minimalism and elegance underwater.

This portrait is all about precision and detail., and the photographer nailed it. The bright green feathers sparkle against the smooth background, giving a radiant like quality to the bird. The composition balances sharpness and negative space effectively, letting the hummingbird stand out amongst the soft and out of focus surroundings.

Entry 25290368
20th
66

Playful and serene, this Kitten duo makes the frame irresistible and a bit humorous. The differing expressions, the watchful eye versus the dreaming face, creates balance and contrast all at once. A blurred background isolates the moment, letting the viewer feel close and present. A sweet and effective capture of everyday joy.

Entry 25295628
59th
2
Entry 25297098
54th
4
Entry 25300669
37th
4

This is a well done portrait of a Cat. The subject sits like a sculpture, its sleek gray form works well in the soft light. The luminous golden eyes command immediate attention, glowing against the subtle palette of fur and background. The centered composition also enhances the sense of poise and presence.

Entry 25301921
15th
6

This is a fairly dramatic silhouette that unfolds against a golden palette. The heron’s wings stretch in mid-flight, carved in shadow, while the rippling water has a molten metal like feel. The contrast between darkness and bright golds creates a mood that's both serene and powerful. A proper demonstration of shape, motion, and light.

Expert
winner

The portrait is striking in its simplicity yet overflowing with color. The deep black background isolates the subject beautifully, letting the scarlet, yellow, and blue feathers radiate in vivid detail. The bird’s eye peeking through adds just the right amount of mystery and personality. A perfect balance of form, color, and intimacy. Wonderful work!.

Meet the expert judge

Brief

See more contest details

Welcome to Photocrowd’s ‘Animals’ contest for New Joiners! These contests are a chance for new members to introduce their photography to the community, and get a taste of how Photocrowd contests work. They can be entered by anyone within their first 28 days of joining Photocrowd. After 100 images have been submitted the contest closes and the Crowd will start rating the images. The Expert Judge will also be judging the images and writing reviews at the same time. All the winners, both Crowd and Expert, will be announced after 3 days of judging. Make sure you also check out our two other New Joiners contests - ‘People’ and ‘Landscapes’.

100 Images entered

Entry 25296135
8th
9

What stands out here is the sense of companionship amongst these Brown Bear cubs. The cubs forage side by side and their similar postures echo the bonds of siblings. The muted tones of the setting also allow the viewer to focus more on the interaction. I don't mind the vertical composition, however, a horizontal view might also be powerful.

This Iguana portrait is a strong fusion of texture and presence. Every detail of the iguana’s body is articulated quite well, and the burst of orange brings out some warmth and vitality. The woody perch grounds the composition, while the out of focus background isolates the subject and removes any distraction.

98 Photographers

7,301 Ratings

The scene glows with a painterly feel as the Great Blue Heron is illuminated like a sculpture in the light. The sweep of grasses frames it naturally, while the still water carries a quiet tension in contrast to its hunting gaze. The saturated greens and silvery blues blend into a composition that could work well as a canvas print.

Entry 25303286
25th
5