Peak freak

Wildlife comps never seem to fail to deliver some great shots.
I think the reindeer shot is simply an exquisite example of photography, but it's the grizzly shot that I like the most. Unlike the...

Yes, it's a great capture using clever photographic techniques.
Initially I thought it might be hyperbole, until I saw that it was actually a Brazilian wandering spider, generally regarded as the...

Interesting, but I find 'earthquake lights' more fascinating because as of yet here is no definite explanation.
The sky lit up over Kaikoura, New Zealand during the 2016 earthquake and was briefly...

Fair enough, I get your reasoning as to it gaining exposure, and feel that it is worthy of that.

Maybe these issues are too close to my heart (which is why I was so bent out of shape when It was...

@TRU
Nowhere have I suggested or even hinted that the winning shot (and images like it) 'shouldn't be seen'. That is ridiculous, I don't know how else to explain it.

On the contrary, I have called...

Thanks Galice. You deserve the credit for your work. The result is epic!

No TRU. You do not respect my opinion, or have gotten over it. You have argued against it ad nauseam, as you are want to do.

You have constantly pedaled the false narrative that I have a problem...

I find your psycho-analysis tiresome and insulting. I have my theories about you too, but out of respect don't post them because I don't really know you - and you don't know me.
I don't think the...

@jimhughes: Yes. 'Powerful statement' photography makes sense in Press or environmental awards / contests but I'm not convinced that a photo depicting animal / human conflict is the best 'bird...

@TRU: You seem to have a problem with rushing to your point of view without properly understanding that of others.
Photography is my hobby and I have particular interests therein. To suggest (and...

Great gallery thanks, a few shots took my breath - super stuff.
From a personal interest, its the caving shot, but the surf shot is epic! (as they often are).
I do wonder how close you have to be...

I too am impressed by the under-over shots.
I looked into what I needed to do this some years ago, I quickly decided just to stick with what I was doing - it is super expensive and camera specific...

@4Photos: I totally understand your point of view.
I have similarly had to clarify that just because I prefer aesthetically pleasing shots doesn't mean I am ignorant to the qualities (or message)...

@King Penguin: Yep, I like my 'pretty' pics, I'm a sucker for them, I can't lie!
That's the point of photography for me, I want people (myself included) to get enjoyment out of what they are...

I unashamedly and unreservedly like my photography to be a positive rather than a negative experience, but I'm not 'forcing' that on anyone. You are welcome to get out of photography whatever you...

@TRU: Firstly, I don't share the opinion that 'pushback' is some kind of affirmation for something, like not agreeing with something makes that something all the more right? Don't think so.
I'm...

@BTN1: Since context is important to you; Do you think the winning image 'celebrates bird photography'? [Because that is what the comp claims on its banner].
I personally think it's an...

@TRU: Trust you to quote me out of context, haha. I carefully noted that " Art and creativity are of course important".
I've noted over the years that creative and artistic themes are strong...

Contrary to contemporary opinion, I don't believe photography has to be about imagination and 'art', and 'bird' photography, or indeed wildlife photography is a good example. We get to see...

I think your surprise is well founded. It (may) be a good photo but IMO doesn't reflect the specific skill and effort required of 'bird photography'.
I think the judges lost sight of what they...