In pictures: Scottish nature photo awards 2024

The Scottish Nature Photography Awards for 2024 have revealed their winners, showcasing some truly remarkable images that capture the beauty of nature. The prestigious top prize was awarded to Nicki Gwynn-Jones for her stunning photograph titled 'Fulmar with Golden Raindrops. ' This captivating image was taken at Longaglebe Geo in Orkney, where a fulmar bird is seen perched on a grassy ledge, bathed in golden light. The raindrops on the bird's feathers glisten like jewels, creating a magical atmosphere. Nicki, who resides in Orkney, explained that she captured this moment on a chilly December day when the sun was low in the sky. She expressed her hopes for something extraordinary, stating, 'I was desperately hoping for something special in those few moments when the raking winter light was producing deep shadows and gorgeous golden tones. ' Her dedication to capturing the perfect shot truly paid off! Another notable winner was Kiran Simpson, who received the junior Scottish Nature Photographer of the Year award for her enchanting photograph titled 'Feathers and Ripples. ' This image features a robin with its wings spread wide as it takes flight from the water, leaving behind ripples that dance across the surface. The timing and composition of this photograph beautifully convey the essence of nature in motion. Callum McKenzie also made his mark by winning the student prize with his photograph 'Puffin Protest. ' This lively image depicts two puffins on a grassy cliff, with one puffin seemingly shouting at the other. The vibrant colors of their beaks—red, blue, and yellow—add a playful touch to the scene, while the blue sea in the background enhances the overall beauty of the photograph. In the sea landscape category, Douglas Bruce emerged victorious with his photograph 'Evening Light,' captured at Luskentyre, Harris. This breathtaking image showcases a vast expanse of sand leading to a silvery-blue sea, illuminated by the soft glow of evening light. The tranquil scene invites viewers to appreciate the serene beauty of Scotland's coastal landscapes. The urban prize was awarded to Anthony Robson for his thought-provoking photograph 'Paved Paradise, Put Up a Parking Lot,' inspired by the lyrics of Joni Mitchell's song. This image, taken in Edinburgh, offers a unique perspective from inside a concrete building, where natural light filters down into the open space below. It serves as a reminder of the contrast between urban development and the beauty of nature. James Lynott won the botanical award for his captivating photograph 'Fifeness Shallow Seaweeds,' which features long strands of seaweed gracefully swaying underwater. The light filtering from above creates a stunning light blue hue in the water, adding to the ethereal quality of the image. Brian Nicholson's photograph of the frozen Gladhouse Reservoir in Midlothian won the natural abstract category. In this striking image, bubbles on the frozen surface of the loch appear as white circles, while patches of green algae peek through the ice. This photograph invites viewers to contemplate the intricate beauty found in nature's frozen landscapes. Richard Nicholls, a filmmaker from Edinburgh, received the video award for his short film '19th July 2022,' which addresses the pressing issue of climate change in Scotland. Filmed on one of Scotland's hottest days, this project was inspired by the unusually high temperatures that prompted Richard to explore the climate crisis. The film documents his journey alongside NatureScot's Peatland Action team, emphasizing the importance of restoring peatland ecosystems. The visuals of a barren peatland landscape, framed by mountains and a clear blue sky, serve as a powerful reminder of the need for environmental conservation. Ruaridh Mitchell's poignant image of a dead gannet entangled in fishing gear won the environmental category. Taken at Isle of Noss, Shetland, this photograph captures the harsh realities faced by wildlife due to human activities. The image shows three northern gannets perched on a rocky cliff, with the lifeless bird caught in fishing rope below them, highlighting the urgent need for responsible fishing practices. Lastly, John Cobham's photograph of a wasp feeding frenzy earned him the behavior award. Captured during his holiday in Ardnamurchan, this image features nearly 20 wasps clustered together on a wooden surface, with small mushrooms growing nearby. The photograph showcases the fascinating behaviors of these insects and their interactions with the environment. The Scottish Nature Photography Awards celebrate the incredible talent of photographers and the beauty of the natural world, reminding us of the importance of preserving it for future generations.