New Joiners - Animals #891
Caron Steele

New Joiners - Animals #891

June 2026

This is a bold and visually striking portrait that immediately captures attention through color, detail, and proximity. The intense red eye provides a powerful focal point, while the vibrant yellow plumage creates strong contrast and visual energy throughout the frame. The close crop emphasizes texture and expression. The shallow depth of field works effectively to isolate the bird while maintaining a pleasing softness in the background.

This photograph succeeds because of its emotional resonance. The relaxed pose and contemplative expression create an immediate sense of connection between the subject and the viewer. Rather than relying on action or drama, the photographer has focused on mood and character,. The warm tones of the Orangutan's fur contrast nicely with the cooler textures of the surrounding environment.

Crowd and
Expert winner

This is a commanding wildlife image that immediately captures the viewer's attention through both composition and presence. The low shooting angle places the viewer directly in the path of these magnificent animals, emphasizing their immense size and power while creating a strong sense of engagement. The monochrome treatment is particularly effective, stripping away distractions and drawing attention to the remarkable textures, wrinkles, and character etched into the animals' skin. Great work!

This portrait succeeds through its simplicity and use of repeating patterns. The photographer has captured a quiet moment of rest, using a tight composition that draws immediate attention to the bird’s eye peering out from a blanket of soft feathers. The shallow depth of field helps isolate the subject while maintaining a pleasing softness in the background, but still maintaining details of the additional duck.

The remarkable plumage of the Mandarin Duck immediately draws the eye in this portrait. Rich colors and fine feather detail have been captured beautifully, showcasing one of nature's most visually striking birds. The presence of the second duck introduces an element of interaction and balance that strengthens the overall composition. The subdued background and soft lighting help maintain focus on the subjects.

This image captures both the harshness and beauty of the Antarctic environment. The two Adele Penguins are thoughtfully positioned within a landscape of rock, snow, and falling precipitation, creating a photograph that feels authentic and atmospheric. The interaction between the birds adds an engaging narrative element and encourages interest about their behavior.

Entry 28838915
27th
2

This classic flight portrait is executed with precision while taking advantage of the backlight. The Gull is captured in an open wing position that showcases both the structure of the plumage and the translucence of its flight feathers. The simple blue sky provides ideal separation and allows the viewer to focus entirely on the subject.

This photograph captures a beautiful moment of light and atmosphere. The Butterfly itself is striking, but what elevates the image is the way the surrounding grasses catch the back light, creating a dreamlike environment. The warm backlighting transforms an ordinary scene into something much more interesting. The balance between sharpness and softness has been handled well.

This is a well timed wildlife action photograph. The Kingfisher bursts from the water amid a shower of droplets, creating a scene filled with motion and excitement. Capturing such a brief moment requires excellent anticipation, and the photographer has succeeded in freezing the action at exactly the right point. The vivid colors of the bird contrast strongly against the darker background, ensuring the subject remains the focal point.

This photograph succeeds through simplicity, symmetry, and direct engagement with the viewer. With only the Frog's head visible above the water, the image creates an immediate sense of curiosity. The placement of the subject within the frame is highly effective, while the circular ripples surrounding the head naturally draw attention to the eyes. The vertical crop also works.

This photograph immediately rewards careful observation. At first glance the Toad almost disappears among the leaves, yet as the viewer discovers the subject, the image becomes increasingly engaging. The photographer has used natural camouflage as a central compositional element, transforming concealment into a strength rather than a challenge. The leaves frame the subject and introduce leading lines as well.

Entry 28871160
20th
3

This image stands out for its charm and character. The close perspective immediately creates a connection with the animals, allowing their expressions and personalities to become the focus of the photograph. The photographer has made effective use of the fence as a framing element rather than allowing it to become a distraction. The diagonal wooden boards create strong visual structure while the natural setting provides context.

Entry 28887383
19th
6

This photograph transforms a fleeting wildlife moment into a striking piece of visual art. The silhouette of the Leopard suspended between trees is captured at precisely the right instant. By reducing the scene to shapes and contrast, the photographer allows the viewer to focus entirely on movement and form. Great eye!

95 Photographers

This image demonstrates how simplicity can be a powerful compositional tool when done right. The Woodpecker is beautifully positioned against a softly blurred background that complements rather than competes with the subject. The slightly open bill adds personality and hints at behavior, elevating the photograph beyond a straightforward portrait of a bird.

Entry 28887386
2nd
1
14

Meet the expert judge

100 Images entered

7,601 Ratings

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’.