Category Winner - British Photography Awards 2021
I was surprised and very chuffed that my photograph of a Gentoo penguin porpoising won the Birdlife Category in the British Photography Awards, held on 31st March 2021. This picture is a particular favourite of mine, as it was a very tricky shot to achieve. I was in a Zodiac, balanced precariously on the edge, trying to figure out when and where the penguin was going to emerge from the water. The British Photography Awards is not only one of the most prestigious awards, but also benefits charity. In my case, the charity I supported was Butterfly Conservation; butterflies have had such an influence on my life and photography, and I was pleased to be able to give something back.
Western Counties Photographic Federation - Silver Medal
I am delighted that my photograph of a Dark Green Fritillary resting on Marsh Woundwort has won the silver medal in the Nature Category of the Western Counties Photographic Federation Competition 2021.
International Garden Photographer of the Year 2021
Dark Green Fritillary on Foxglove - "All She Surveys" - Highly Commended, Wildlife in the Garden
Category Winner - Comedy Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards 2020
Hide and Seek - Winner- ‘Creatures of the Air’ category
I took this picture of an Azure damselfly in its defensive position early one morning in the garden during lockdown. As it slowly woke up, it became aware of my presence. I was lined up to take a profile picture of its wings and body, but quite sensibly the damsel reacted to the human with the camera by putting the Marsh grass stem between me and it. I took the shot anyway. It was only later that I realised how characterful it was.
Finalist - Comedy Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards 2020
Face Plant - Finalist
I was delighted to have not one but two images selected for the finals of the Awards; this photo was taken in Kenya, and the calf was hurrying to keep up with its mother. I took the photo as I liked the juxtaposition of size - little and large - but suddenly the calf lost its footing and executed a perfect faceplant. Happily it scrambled quickly to its feet and caught up with its mother, with no injuries other than to its pride!
Close Up Photographer of the Year 2020
Buff Tip Moth - Shortlist - Close Up Photographer of the Year 2020
I had two photographs shortlisted in this prestigious competition. The Buff tip moth is a master of camouflage and blended in beautifully against these twigs.
Close Up Photographer of the Year 2020
House Spider - Shortlist - Close Up Photographer of the Year 2020
This was the second photograph shortlisted in the Close Up Photographer of the Year Awards. This huge house spider moved into our spare bathroom, and I spent a lot of time during lockdown bent over the side of the bath trying to catch it in the perfect position.
Salon Ribbon - SPS International Salon 2020
Clouded Yellow Butterflies
Selector’s Medal – Solihull Open Exhibition of British Photography 2020
Dark Green Fritillary on Marsh Woundwort