Bird Photo Competition 4 2021 : Results
- Competition Winner : First Prize
- $563.60
- Judges Comment
- In many branches of photography (news, sport, street, wedding, nature, etc.), photographers strive to capture images that tell a story. Bird photography has been late to this party, but competition success increasingly depends on being able to do more than simply 'depict' birds. Storytelling is difficult in bird photography, but one obvious narrative is the encroachment of humans on natural habitats. This image is a fantastic example of how it can be done: the cold, sinister development sprawling across both the landscape and the frame, pushing the ptarmigans into a diminishing 'corner'. Even the tracks in the snow suggest the pair have walked to the limit of their remaining environment and their poses make them look like they're surveying the scene with dismay.
- Mark Of Excellence
- Judges Comment
- A well frozen capture of a serious altercation between a Blue Jay and a Red-bellied Woodpecker, presumably over access to food.
- Mark Of Excellence
- Judges Comment
- These squabbling Bald Eagles have been nicely captured in dramatic poses.
- Photographers Comment
- Thanks so much for the mark of excellence! This photo was taken in southern Alaska, where salmon had spawned and were easy catching, but the eagles preferred stealing the fish from each other or from the gulls who would drag the fish out of the water. Taken with a Sony A9 and Sony 200-600mm lens in November, 2021.
- https://www.judiphotography.com
- Mark Of Excellence
- Judges Comment
- This shot is a great study in texture, the fungus and tree bark providing as much interest as the Yellow-rumped Warbler.
- Mark Of Excellence
- Judges Comment
- A highly immersive low angle shot of a bathing King Eider, enhanced by the presence of the defocused second individual.
- Mark Of Excellence
- Judges Comment
- A well timed capture of a pelican feeding at sunset.