"June 2025 Photo Contest Image Critique"

The theme for the June 2025 Wildlife Photography Contest was “Reflections.” Members were invited to submit images where mirrored surfaces brought depth, symmetry, or storytelling into the frame. The result was a wide range of creative entries that blended strong light, clean compositions, and a variety of environments.

This month’s image critique was led by Daniel Cadieux, a veteran wildlife photographer with more than two decades of experience. It was his first session as head judge—and his feedback balanced technical insight with field-based perspective. As always, the live critique offered a chance for every participant to learn and grow, regardless of skill level.

💥 What the Judges Looked For

“Reflections” challenged photographers to be deliberate with their framing and composition—not just to capture symmetry, but to make it meaningful. Judges evaluated entries based on:

• Natural reflections — No added elements or composites; the reflection had to be real
• Clean composition — Reflections needed to enhance the image, not distract from it
• Use of light and perspective — Judges looked for thoughtful exposure and eye-level framing
• Intentional post-processing — Images were expected to be well-polished but true to the moment
• Creativity — Unusual subjects or angles stood out when executed with care

🔍 What Daniel Covered in the Critique

Daniel brought a fresh energy to the critique, focusing on how small technical and artistic choices make a big difference. His Photoshop walkthroughs helped clarify many of the adjustments he suggested.

• Straightening techniques: Using reflections themselves as a guide for horizon correction
• Color cast corrections: Removing magenta or blue tones from water and shadows
• Framing adjustments: When to crop for balance vs. when to let subjects breathe
• Symmetry vs. storytelling: Using centered or off-centered subjects based on context
• Creative use of environment: How small shifts in position can hide or remove distractions

💬 What Members Said

• “Really helpful tips about hue and saturation.”
• “Thank you for all the examples and correction techniques.”
• “Love the Photoshop tips.”
• “Lots of good info – thanks.”
• “I really appreciate you walking through the critiques in PS.”

■ June 2025 Contest Winners: “Reflections”

🥇 First Place

Title: Morning Stroll
Photographer: Christy Grinton
→ A striking image of a raccoon at sunrise. Judges praised the symmetry, golden tones, and unique blend of environmental geometry with wildlife behavior.
View the winning image →

🥈 Second Place

Title: Crocodilian Leg – Abstract Reflection
Photographer: Kathy Raffel
→ A bold, artistic take on wildlife reflection. The tight framing and surface symmetry gave the image a painterly feel. Judges praised the risk-taking and visual interest.
View the winning image →

🥉 Third Place

Title: Impala Drinking at Night
Photographer: Alison Mees
→ Captured from a night hide, this image stood out for its quiet elegance and technical skill in low-light conditions. Judges noted the precision in light, timing, and mood.
View the winning image →