Penguins

This little gentoo really looks like it is in a rush to get somewhere fast, as it launches itself out of the water onto the slippy rocks. Great lighting, bringing a lovely gleam to the feathers. The fast shutter speed has frozen the action, with the capture of the movement of the water being especially effective, showing interesting shapes as the water slides off the sleek feathers and the additional little splashes of water behind the bird. Great action shot, well done on your top ten placing.

What a beautiful image of a sleeping king penguin chick. Very often these birds are photographed, however unintentionally, in a rather cominal way, due to their relatively large and formless bodies, tiny heads and ungainly walk. Here however we see the opposite; an image full of beauty and gentle grace. Your capture of the texture of the soft, fuzzy feathers really brings the image to life. Composition is great, especially commendable as it unlikely you would have had much time to compose and capture this little fellow. Fabulous all round; a worthy winner. Congratulations.

A great shot, capturing a chinstrap rather precariously negotiating a steep snowy slope. By their shape and looks, penguins have the ability to raise a smile, and this capture certainly does that. The markings of the "chin strap" also give the suggestion of a smile reflecting back to us. The minimal composition works well, with the clear sky acting as an uncluttered backdrop. Great control of the exposure too, not easy photographing a predominately white bird against bright white snow. Congratulations on your second place finish.

Anyone who knows penguins can't fly may begin to question that fact when viewing this fabulous image! Clarity of the features and feathers are lovely, with the bird nicely set off against the rich bluey-green background. Composition is great, with the penguin "flying" across the screen on the diagonal, bring a real sense of action and dynamism to the shot. Great work, well done on your top ten placing.

A stunning image of a pair of king penguins, capturing what can be interpreted as a tender affectionate moment. Colours and clarity of the markings of the feathers is beautiful, allowing us to look at these fabulous birds with awe and wonderment; we often take their appearance for granted, but this shot allows for a really detailled study. Composition and framing is spot on, nice and close but not being over-cropped. Congratulations on your third place finish.