Jenny Graeme, of Shaldon, took this picture of a Japonica last month which is supposed to flower during March and April – continue reading as the competition opens for entries to the British Wildlife Photography Awards 2016!

British Wildlife Photography Awards 2016

CALL FOR ENTRIES

The 2016 Competition is now Open for Entries

Help raise awareness about British wildlife and celebrate our natural heritage. Winners and commended entrants will have their work showcased in a touring exhibition and stunning book, and will be invited to an exclusive Awards ceremony in London. Win a prestigious award with a cash first prize of £5,000 and reach millions through national exposure.

The £20,000 prize fund includes products from lead sponsor Canon.

The awards recognise the talents of photographers practising in Britain whilst also highlighting the great wealth and diversity of British natural history. A celebration of British wildlife as well as a showcase for photographers and videographers, both amateur and professional.

Categories

There are fifteen separate categories including animal behaviour, urban wildlife, habitat, animal portraits, marine life, the hidden secret world that lies in the undergrowth and a special award for wildlife in HD Video. Also two junior categories - to encourage young people to connect with nature through photography.

Wildlife in HD Video

In addition to still photography there is a great opportunity to capture wildlife in action and win an amazing prize. Be inspired by the video winner and commended entries in 2015.

Young People’s Awards WildPix / BWPA, sponsored by RSPB Wildlife Explorers.

Entry is free for all young photographers with two age groups.

Chris Packham, naturalist and TV presenter said: ’Each year the British Wildlife Photography Awards generates an incredible catalogue of splendid, exciting, imaginative and artistic images, proving beyond doubt that we have the richest palette of life to celebrate in our own backyard. Anyone passionate about protecting and preserving wildlife will be inspired by the British Wildlife Photography Awards, which in its sixth year has done more than any other award to raise the profile of British wildlife.’

The Awards and Prizes

1. Overall Winner, British Wildlife Photographer. £5,000

2. Wildlife in HD Video Winner – Canon XA30 Professional Camcorder

3. The category winners will receive a Canon PowerShot G5 X Camera

4. Portfolio Winner ‘British Seasons’ – A £600 voucher for Páramo clothing

5. The Young People’s Awards WildPix / BWPA

Young British Wildlife Photographer (12-18) £500

Young British Wildlife Photographer (Up to 11) £300

All winners, commended entrants and photographers who feature in the book will be invited to an Awards ceremony and launch of the traveling exhibition.

Dates The competition is open until 30th April.