"January 2025 Photo Contest Image Critique"

Our January 2025 Wildlife Photography Contest focused on one of nature’s most heartwarming themes: “Babies.” From burrowing owlet curiosity to hidden aquatic hatchlings, our members brought forward images rich in emotion, storytelling, and respect for wildlife.

The live critique was led by Gail Bisson, who walked us through standout entries, explaining what set these images apart and how others can enhance their work. If you weren’t able to join the live session, here’s a full recap of what’s worth your attention.

💥 What the Judges Looked For

Our January theme, “Babies,” challenged photographers to center their work on juvenile wildlife—alone or with a parent—always captured with care. Judges evaluated entries based on:

• Emotional impact — Did the image go beyond mere documentation and connect with the viewer?
• Thoughtful composition — Was framing intentional, with clean focus and background?
• Respect for the subject — Was there zero interference, nest disruption, or signs of stress on the animal?
• Natural processing — No cloning, added canvas, or unnatural editing was permitted.
• Clear theme alignment — The subject needed to unmistakably convey a juvenile animal, not just a smaller creature.

🔍 What Gail Covered in the Critique

During the live critique, Gail shared both praise and guidance across a range of entries. Here are the key takeaways:

• Composition counts: Some excellent subjects lost impact due to tight cropping or awkward framing.
• Watch for distractions: Things like bright spots, background clutter, or tiny distractions can pull focus from the main subject.
• Edit with restraint: Oversharpening, color shifts, added canvas, and cloning all led to disqualifications in some cases.
• Field craft matters: Shooting from a low angle, picking the right moment, and staying patient elevated many winning photos.
• Judging transparency: Gail explained how RAW files are reviewed, how finalists are chosen, and why some strong entries don’t move forward.

She reminded photographers that judges want to see what you saw in the field—not a heavily built version. Every creative choice in-camera counts.

💬 What Members Had to Say

• “The critiques are invaluable to me. Thank you! And congratulations to all the winners.” – jhobl
• “Learning how to evaluate images is an invaluable lesson.” – Ann Birxey
• “Dropped in for a few minutes. I’ve learned a lot in such a short time. Can’t wait to watch the recording!” – Geoff
• “Thanks Bill and Gail for helping us improve our photography and processing!” – Carol G
• “Thanks so much! It’s really helpful!” – Ruth

🏆 January 2025 Contest Winners: “Babies”

🟢 Beginner Category

Winner: Hoo Are You? by Jenny L Clark
This image captures a burrowing owlet perched on a rock at golden hour, its head tilted as if asking a question—pure magic in a frame. Photographed on a scorching June day in Arizona, the owlet’s curious expression, rich warmth, and composition all stood out to judges.
View the winning image →

🟠 Intermediate Category

Winner: Safely, Securely Resting with Mum by Donald Chin
Shot at a local nature reserve in Perth, this intimate scene shows three chicks nestled on their mother’s back. Captured from a low, eye-level angle, the image boasts strong technical execution, lovely compositional balance, and emotional connection.
View the winning image →

🔵 Advanced Category

Winner: Not Ready For Prime Time by Shane Gross
This rare underwater image showcases larval plainfin midshipman fish, still attached to their yolk sacs, nestled in the intertidal zone. Shot with a waterproof Laowa probe lens under challenging conditions, the image dazzled judges with its uniqueness, technical mastery, and storytelling.
View the winning image →