The sea

This vibrant seascape shot takes third place. Technically this image ticks all the boxes: the composition is strong, the light is good, and the photographer has used all the right settings to capture the movement of the sea. They have also done well to keep an even exposure between the sky, the sea and the land. It goes to show that shooting in the golden hour is really the best time, as the colours in this image are breathtaking. The photographer has also done an excellent post-production job to ensure the image has the maximum impact.

Well done to our second-place photographer who has taken a classic, minimalist approach to photographing the sea, and the overall impact is calm, tranquil and atmospheric. The black-and-white finish adds to the final impact and removes distractions, drawing your eye towards the birds perching on the tree. The contrast in the scene also works well. The photographer has done well to choose a shutter speed slow enough to blur the water, yet fast enough to keep all the birds in the frame sharp.

Well done to our first-place winner, who has taken a creative approach to our sea-themed competition. The bird’s eye composition creates an interesting result that makes excellent use of abstract shapes and colours. The photographer has shot in bright sunlight, enabling the intense blue of the sea to contrast pleasingly against the bright red boat. This is broken up by the bright white railing that splits the image down the middle. The photographer has done well to keep the exposure even and not blow any highlights. A fun and playful image that deserves first place.