The night sky

Well done to our first place winning photographer. This image ticks our night sky theme on many levels. Firstly we love the atmospheric appeal it has and, as the viewer, you are drawn slowly into the scene from the dark edges of the wood. The photographer has created a strong composition and the upward view captures the moon and birds flying overhead perfectly. They have done well to use a fast enough shutter speed so the birds stay sharp. Finally, the cool blue tone surrounding the slither of moon draws you in. A great night sky image that is subtle yet atmospheric all in one. Not an easy thing to pull off!

The photographer in third place has done a fantastic job of capturing the iconic Kirkjufell mountain in Iceland. Although this view has been photographed many times, not so many have captured it quite as well! The photographer has created a strong portrait composition that uses a balance of the night sky and snowy ground pleasingly to the eye. The turquoise colour in the sky is simply stunning, and technically the final execution of this image cannot be faulted. Well done to the photographer who takes third place in our night sky competition.

Stars galore in our second place night sky image! The photographer has made excellent use in their composition of the lone tree, and it has been framed excellently against the stunning backdrop of the night sky with shooting stars. The photographer has made an excellent creative decision to light the tree and ground from a few angles creating interesting shadows on the ground. Finally the high quality black and white finish helps emphasise the tones and shapes in the scene giving it that wow factor. Great work.