Dramatic landscapes, wildlife and climate change marked the 15th edition of Scottish Nature Photography Awards, the contest that distinguishes nature photography.
The winners of the – Photography awards of the nature of Scotland. This contest celebrates the country’s natural richness through the eye of photographers in love with wildlife and Scottish landscapes.
The main prize was awarded to Nicki Gwynn-Jones, from the Orcades Islands, by his photography of a fulmar under a golden rain on a cold December day in Prongegebe Geo.
“Even though it was noon, the sun was very low in the sky, about 10 degrees from the horizon. I waited desperately for something special in those brief moments when the strong light of winter created deep shadows and beautiful golden tones. Suddenly it began to rain. Golden tones. It was a magical moment ” He told the photographer quoted in the press release.
The image, entitled Fulmar with Golden Raindrops, won in the categories portrait of wildlife of Scotland and Scottish photographer of a nature of the year 2024.
The jury – composed by Charles Everitt, Morag Paterson and Niall Irvine – highlighted the composition and visual impact of photography.
“The position of the fulmar within the frame is perfect and the rain adds texture to the grassy arguments, highlighted by the golden light. It is a strong image and a very well deserved winner for the 15th anniversary of the prize.”
Young photographer of the year: a twingo and the water
In the young Category of Nature of Scotland 2024, the winner was Kiran Simpson, 13, born in Dunfermline.
Your photography Feathers and Ripples He captured an unusual time.
“It is rare to see a twisted to interact with a large surface of water, so this image immediately stood out. The composition is beautiful – The twingo comes with extended wings, wrapped in a circle of blue wavy, creating a mystery about what attracted him to there “, explained the jury Charles Everitt.
The young Kiran was surprised and happy with the victory. “Winning this prize seems unreal. The recognition of my photography means a lot to me and it is amazing to see it celebrated.”
Student of the Year: Bird Couples Stories
The Escotia 2024 student photographer award went to Callum McKenzie, a photograph student at Glasgow Kelvin College. Its “poultry pairs” portfolio explores interactions between different birds.
“This was the first contest in which I participated, and having my work recognized this way is truly inspiring,” said Callum.
Jury Niall Irvine highlighted the young photographer’s approach. “We liked the way Callum interpreted the theme natural stories, capturing the narrative of the interaction between birds. We are curious to see what will do next! ”
Video of the Year: The Hottest Day of Scotland
The Scottish Nature Video Award 2024 Award went to Richard Nicholls, Edinburgh’s filmmaker, for the short film “July 19, 2022”. The film documents the impact of the climate crisis on the hottest day that there is a record in Scotland and accompanies the team’s work dedicated to the restoration of peat.
“I was filming at Princes Street in Edinburgh at 5 pm, and the temperature exceeded 30 degrees. It didn’t look right. After all, we’re in Scotland! This experience left me deeply concerned with the climate crisis and motivated to do more,” Richard said.
The jury morag paterson praised the work: “This video impressed me a lot. It’s a brilliant portrait of the cloudy restoration, with excellent production and a strong human touch. The images of people working in the classic Scottish mood, mixed with humor moments, make it engaging and identifiable. A powerful reminder of the importance of carbon storage, biodiversity and the future of the planet.”
Favorite Book of the Year: The Secrets of Wild Scotland
The public was invited to choose the favorite book of photography from the nature of Scotland 2024, selected from 17 publications that highlight the Scottish landscape and wildlife. The chosen one was “Unseen Scotland: The Hidden Places, History and Lore of the Wild Scottish Landscape” (Invisible Scotland: The hidden places, the history and knowledge of the Scottish Wild Savings)by Bryan Millar Walker, published by Greenfinch/Quercus Books.
“Winning this award is a huge privilege. This book was born from my fascination with the stillness and subtlety of the Scottish landscape. Seeing it recognized-and understood-is a true gift,” said Bryan.
Emily Arbis, editorial director of Greenfinch/Quercus, praised the author: “Bryan’s exquisite photography captures the ethereal beauty of Scotland. He has an extraordinary talent for telling stories, and this book is a magnificent celebration of the country’s nature and history.”
In summer, an exhibition will be launched with the winning images, as well as the 2024 Portfolio Yearbook, which will bring together the best works of this edition of the contest.
