Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is a prestigious international competition founded in 1965. Originally initiated by the BBC Wildlife Magazine, it has been owned and organized by the Natural History Museum, London since 1984. The contest is globally recognized for showcasing the most compelling and technically accomplished images of the natural world, celebrating both the artistry of photography and the diversity of life on Earth.

History and background

The competition was conceived by the editors of BBC Wildlife Magazine, then titled *Animals*, with the inaugural contest judged by figures including Sir Peter Scott. In 1984, administrative control was transferred to the Natural History Museum, London, which expanded its scale and international profile. Under the directorship of individuals like Michael Dixon and later Sir Michael Rawlins, the competition evolved from a modest national contest into a major global event. Key figures in its development have included photographers such as Frans Lanting and Jim Brandenburg, whose early involvement helped establish its artistic credibility.

Competition and categories

The contest features numerous categories that change periodically to reflect contemporary themes in conservation and photographic technique. Core divisions typically include *Animal Portraits*, *Behaviour*, and *Urban Wildlife*, alongside specialized sections like *Underwater* and *Plants and Fungi*. A dedicated *Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year* award fosters emerging talent across several age groups. The premier honor is the *Grand Title*, awarded to the single image judged overall winner. The competition receives tens of thousands of entries annually from over one hundred countries, including submissions from regions like the Sundarbans and the Andes.

Notable winners and photographs

Early influential winners include Lennart Nilsson and Heather Angel. In 1991, Frans Lanting's iconic image of penguins in South Georgia garnered widespread acclaim. The 2019 Grand Title was awarded to Yongqing Bao for his dramatic capture of a Przewalski's horse encounter in the Qilian Mountains. Other memorable winners feature the work of David Doubilet in Palau, Thomas P. Peschak documenting sharks in South Africa, and Brent Stirton's powerful photojournalism from Virunga National Park. The haunting *Starving Polar Bear* by Paul Nicklen, highlighted issues of climate change in the Arctic.

Judging process and criteria

A panel of internationally respected experts is assembled each year, often including past winners like Brian Skerry and Marsel van Oosten, alongside scientists from institutions such as the Royal Society. The judging occurs in multiple anonymous stages, assessing entries for technical excellence, originality, and narrative power. Key criteria include the photograph’s ethical approach, adhering to a strict code of conduct that forbany manipulation or harm to wildlife or habitats. The final selection for the Grand Title involves rigorous debate among the jury, chaired by figures such as Roz Kidman Cox.

Impact and exhibitions

The winning images form a major touring exhibition, launched annually at the Natural History Museum, London before traveling globally to venues like the Australian Museum and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. The accompanying publication, *Wildlife Photographer of the Year: Portfolio*, is distributed worldwide. The competition significantly influences public perception of conservation issues, with images often featured by media including National Geographic and the BBC. Its legacy is evident in its role in advancing wildlife photography as a tool for science and advocacy, inspiring initiatives like the BigPicture Natural World Photography Competition in California.

Category:Photography awards Category:Natural History Museum, London Category:Wildlife photography