The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Australia's nature photo contest is back, with more than $14,000 worth of prizes up for grabs.
For the first time ever, the 2024 Photo Contest will sharpen its focus, seeking entries only from residents of Australia, New Zealand, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Nature lovers and photographers across Oceania are asked to share their pics and enter the Contest, which will run from September 18 until November 8, with results announced late November 2024.
Dr Eddie Game, TNC's Head of Oceania Programs, said that TNC Australia's 2024 Oceania Photo Contest is open to people passionate about nature, amateur as well as professional photographers.
"Throughout the ages, nature has inspired and fascinated artists and scientists alike. We all have in common a connection with nature. Nature draws us in - whether it's a childhood memory of a place we spent summer holidays, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that left us in awe of dramatic landscapes, or that special spot we return to that makes us feel calm and at peace, we all have in our heart a picture-perfect place. Showcasing nature's beauty is a powerful way to say it needs to be protected for future generations. The Photo Contest allows photographers from all walks of life to do just that!" Dr Game said.
"Oceania is an extraordinary region, with many species and unique landscapes found nowhere else in the world. As residents of this extraordinary part of the planet we know better than anyone what breathtaking imagery is on our doorstep. This Contest is a celebration of our nature, the joy it inspires and the shared passion of those who live to protect it," Dr Game said.
We are delighted to announce three incredibly talented Australian photographers as our judges for this year's competition. Their highly recognised works illustrate not only the powerful connection between art and nature, but also each artist's deep respect for their subject. Annette Ruzicka, Ben Buckland and Jarrod Boord have been tasked with selecting the best pictures across 6 categories: People and Nature, Wildlife, Climate Change, Land, Water and Plants & Fungi.
Annette Ruzicka is an award-winning visual storyteller focusing on conservation and the environment as well as the role of First Nations in caring for Country through their unwavering connection to the land. "I encourage all keen nature photographers to get involved. You don't need to be a professional photographer to show the beauty of nature, it's about being curious, patient and mindful. This will truly help you to capture the raw emotion the scene before you invokes," Ms Ruzicka said.
Internationally award-winning photographer Ben Buckland said taking the time to really understand your subject is key to telling compelling visual stories. "Pictures that come from that place of understanding often surprise us and tell us something deeper. Each photographer entering the competition contributes to global efforts to protect nature. For me, the images that do this best are those that spark our curiosity and bring us further into the stories."
The panel will also welcome award-winning photographer and film maker Jarrod Boord, whose photography of the underworld conveys a deep love for the ocean and the urgency to protect its ecosystems. Mr Boord has one last tip for entrants: "Always tell a story with your photo, think about what you want your viewer to feel or understand from the image. A great photograph does more than capture a moment; it conveys emotion, context and the narrative can make your photo stand out in a competition, even if it's technically imperfect."
