I blogged about being shortlisted in the Scottish Nature Photography Awards for a second time in April. Now, there is more exciting news to share – three of my images were highly commended in the British Deer Society Photographer of the Year competition, which was announced earlier today.
Being awarded in this competition means a lot to me. I’m always delighted to receive any kind of positive feedback on my photography, but being recognised by the charity that promotes the welfare and understanding of wild deer is incredibly special. Roe deer have been the main subject of my wildlife photography for over three years, and the red deer of the London parks were my first real experience of mammal photography when I started out. So, when I say that deer have a special place in my heart, I’m not exaggerating. The relationships I’ve built with the roe deer on my local patch, in particular, have brought me so much joy, and their calm presence has helped me through some tough times. Getting to know them as individuals is such a privilege.
I am so grateful to deer, and if my images succeed in fostering “empathy and understanding towards our diverse deer species,” then I feel that, in a funny way, I am repaying some of the trust they’ve placed in me by allowing me to spend time with them. If the expert judges of the competition agree, then I’m delighted.
I love Deborah Heath’s winning image. It’s not only a fantastic action shot, but I adore the view you get of the deer’s eyelashes and teeth. It’s the little details, in my view, that give it that edge. Congratulations to Deborah and the other winners and commended entrants – I’m proud to be recognised alongside you for photographing these incredible subjects.
Below are brief descriptions of how I captured the three very different images that were successful in this year’s competition.
Bellow in the face
Highly commended – Deer in action (freezing a moment of dynamic movement and energy in the lives of wild deer)
“As the early stages of the rut played out on the golf course at Lochranza, this dominant red stag made sure to assert his authority. While a young rival circled and showed off to the hinds with little success, the mature stag maintained a calm but commanding presence. After a few warning bellows and a confident stride towards the youngster, the challenge was quickly dismissed. Then, in a striking moment, the stag turned his full attention to one of the hinds. Bellowing directly towards her, he displayed both his power and his intent – a dramatic interaction that gave me the chance to capture this image, where their heads seem to mirror each other in perfect tension and connection.”
Long grass lover (local roe buck Quint)
Highly Commended – A home for deer (showcasing the diverse and beautiful habitats that wild deer call home)
“This image captures a roe buck moving slowly through a field of long summer grass – part of the familiar landscape he calls home. Standing quietly at the field’s edge, I watched as he wandered comfortably across the open space, pausing now and again to scratch, completely at ease with my presence. The long grass not only provided shelter and food, but also a sense of safety, blending him into the landscape. It’s moments like this – where the deer and their habitat are so closely intertwined – that I try to share through my images, showing how deeply these animals belong to the places they inhabit.”
Fern forager (local roe buck Hellboy)
Highly Commended – A home for deer (showcasing the diverse and beautiful habitats that wild deer call home)
“Captured on a warm, sticky afternoon, this image shows a young roe buck making the most of the cool shelter offered by the local woodland. The trees provided welcome shade from the sun, and a rich supply of ferns and greenery to feed on. Maintaining a respectful distance, I was able to quietly follow his movements as he browsed through the woods, relaxed and unbothered by my presence, as I continued to talk quietly to him – repeating a few familiar phrases I use so the local deer can recognise me. Watching him feast so contentedly in the dappled light gave me the opportunity to capture a peaceful moment that reflects the quiet rhythms of life in this familiar patch of woodland.”