There’s something rather special about having your photography recognised, but when the subject matter is as important to you as deer are to me, it means even more.
For the second year running, I’m delighted to have had images awarded in the British Deer Society Photographer of the Year competition. This year, six of my photographs have been recognised, which is something I’m incredibly proud of – and, if I’m honest, still slightly surprised by.
The British Deer Society’s work to promote the welfare and understanding of wild deer makes this competition particularly meaningful to me. Deer have been such a constant presence throughout my photography journey, from the red deer in London’s parks that gave me my first real taste of photographing mammals, to the roe deer that have become such an important part of my life and photography over the past few years.
Spending time with wild deer has taught me a great deal, not just about photography and fieldcraft, but about patience, observation and the value of simply being present. Getting to know individual animals and gradually earning their tolerance is a privilege I never take for granted. Some of my favourite photographs have come from those quiet, unremarkable moments when nothing dramatic happens – except that, for a few minutes, a wild animal has allowed me to share its space.
That’s why recognition from the British Deer Society feels like more than simply having a photograph do well in a competition. I hope that my images can play a small part in helping people see deer as the fascinating, complex and individual animals they are, and perhaps encourage a little more curiosity, respect and empathy towards them.
And, of course, there can only be one overall winner. I love that this year’s winning image, Sika Hinds Among Heather and Pines by Ron Perkins, is so full of colour and depth. The sika hinds, heather and pines are all bathed in beautiful golden light, creating a wonderfully tranquil scene. It’s a lovely reminder of just how much variety there is in the ways we can photograph deer and the landscapes they inhabit.
Congratulations to Ron, and to all of the other winners and commended entrants. I’m very proud to be recognised alongside you for photographing these incredible subjects.
So, with a very large thank you to the deer – and to the judges – here are the six photographs that made the cut this year.
Buttercup Browser – Third Prize – Deer in Action
This young buck, Hellboy, allowed me to observe him feeding, grooming, and moving through long grass during steady rain. Working at a respectful distance, ensuring he remained relaxed and aware of my presence, I was able to document natural behaviour in soft, even light. This encounter sparked my long-term project photographing local roe deer, deepening my understanding of their behaviour and reinforcing the importance of patience and consistency in the field.
Say Cheese – Highly Commended – Deer Portraits
While passing through Lochranza, I encountered red deer grazing on a golf course and observed them from a respectful distance, using a burn as cover. What began as a calm scene developed into early pre-rut behaviour, with a younger stag displaying before being displaced by the dominant male. Once the disturbance passed, the group settled. I captured this moment as a calf paused mid-groom, lifting its head to scent the air – an expressive, fleeting and, in this case, comical-looking behaviour.
Hide and Peek – Highly Commended – Deer Portraits
This young roe deer buck, Russet, was photographed on a bright autumn morning as he began to explore more independently. Younger deer can be unpredictable – alternating between curiosity and caution. On this occasion, he approached to investigate, while his sibling remained at a distance. By maintaining a consistent, non-threatening presence, I was able to observe this natural inquisitive behaviour without causing alarm.
High-rise Buck – Highly Commended – A Home for Deer
This rugged old roe buck, Quint, paused on the hilltop, framed by the towering high-rise flats, checking for the retreating threat of an off-lead dog. I photographed him from the woodland edge, a position he was accustomed to and comfortable with. The image captures a striking juxtaposition: people able to observe wildlife from their windows, set against the pressures deer face living so close to urban life. In this moment, a loose dog disrupted that balance, highlighting both the privilege and responsibility of sharing space with wildlife.
Buck on the Run – Commended – Deer in Action
Russet strutted confidently across the field, showing what excellent condition he was in, briefly lagging behind two females before trotting downhill to rejoin them. I had already spent a couple of hours with this small herd so, after capturing this action, I withdrew quietly, leaving the deer as I found them – feeding calmly in the sunlight.
Woodland Wonder – Commended – Deer Portraits
This portrait captures Hellboy within his woodland habitat, where he had become accustomed to my regular, non-intrusive presence. During this encounter, he gradually approached before settling down nearby. After taking a few images, I withdrew, aiming to minimise any impact and reinforce a pattern of brief, undisturbed interactions.