The 6th annual Close-Up Photographer of the Year contest recently concluded, with a stunning image of two fighting stag beetles taking the top prize. The competition, which received over 11,000 entries from photographers in 61 countries, showcased a diverse range of natural phenomena captured in exquisite detail.
A panel of 25 experts, including scientists, editors, naturalists, journalists, and photographers, carefully selected 100 images to highlight the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Among the winners were Yong Miao, who won the Insects category with a striking shot of a damselfly perched near a waterfall, and Barry Webb, whose image of an ear-pick fungus earned him the top spot in the Fungi & Slime Moulds category.
One of the standout entries was Gabriel Jensen’s captivating portrait of a fish caught in the jaws of a predator, which won the Underwater category. Jensen shared the story behind the image, recounting how a group of shore diving photographers in South Florida witnessed a lizard fish struggling with a doctorfish before eventually escaping. The photograph serves as a reminder of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Tracy Calder, co-founder of CUPOTY, described close-up photography as a celebration of curiosity, highlighting the artistry and dedication of the photographers involved in the competition. The winning entries not only showcase stunning visuals but also offer insights into the fascinating science and stories behind each image.
The contest’s online gallery features all the top photos, including Svetlana Ivanenko’s winning image of two stag beetles locked in a battle for dominance. Other notable entries include Jenny Stock’s mesmerizing shot of a leafy seadragon swimming with a school of rough bullseye fish and Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas’s captivating image of a robber fly feeding on a flesh fly.
Overall, the Close-Up Photographer of the Year contest celebrates the beauty and diversity of the natural world, inviting viewers to marvel at the intricate details and hidden wonders that surround us. The winning images serve as a testament to the talent and passion of the photographers who capture these moments with skill and artistry.
