The results are in – and what a year it has been for the Bird Aware Solent Photography Competition. With more than 400 entries showcasing the beauty, drama and character of the Solent’s wildlife, our judging panel had an inspiring (and at times very challenging) task on their hands.
A record year for creativity and wildlife awareness
Our ranger team were genuinely blown away by both the quality and the quantity of photographs submitted this year. From intimate portraits of waders to sweeping Solent landscapes, the standard was exceptionally high. Many entries demonstrated not only technical skill but also a deep respect for the wildlife that makes our coastline so special.
That made judging no small feat. The panel spent hours reviewing images, with plenty of lively debate as they weighed up composition, storytelling, behaviour captured and – crucially – whether the photographer had taken care not to disturb the birds. Knowing how much commitment and enthusiasm had gone into the submissions, we were keen for our decisions to reflect that, approaching the process as thoughtfully and fairly as possible.
We were fortunate to have the expert guidance of wildlife‑aware photographer Steve Laycock, whose thoughtful advice helped the panel navigate some very close calls. His emphasis on ethical fieldcraft and understanding bird behaviour was invaluable in shaping the final decisions.
Overall winner: Graham Snelgar
This year’s overall winner – and winner of the Birds of the Solent category – is Graham Snelgar for his dynamic photograph of three redshanks racing across the shoreline at Meon Shore. The image stood out for its energy, low viewpoint and sensitivity to the birds’ natural behaviour.
Graham’s lifelong love of nature shines through in his work. He describes Titchfield Haven and Meon Shore as favourite locations for their diversity of wildlife and wild feel – qualities that clearly inspire his photography.
Junior winner: Clara Boniface
Junior category winner Clara Boniface, aged 9 and from Southampton, was recognised for her atmospheric photograph of a heron silhouetted on the river at Thorney Island. Judges praised her composition and creative use of a wide‑angle lens. A keen nature lover, Clara took up photography to capture what she sees and deepen her understanding of the natural world. As part of her prize, she and her family will enjoy a guided birdwatching walk with a Bird Aware ranger.
Solent landscapes winner: Richard Jones
In the Solent landscapes category, first place went to Richard Jones for his evocative image of brent geese flying over Chichester Harbour. Richard, who lives near Langstone and Chichester Harbours, is a keen landscape photographer who is always seeking to capture the shifting moods of these beautiful, expansive and largely undisturbed wildlife havens.
Wildlife‑aware dogs winner: Matt Bowdler
The Wildlife Aware Dogs category celebrates photographs of dogs and owners who enjoy the coast responsibly. This year’s winner is Matt Bowdler – last year’s winner in the mobile phone category – for his photograph of Willow, his eight‑year‑old Labradoodle, walking with his parents. Judges praised the family’s care in keeping Willow close so she can enjoy her walk while giving birds the space they need.
Mobile winner: Lisa Buckingham
A special award for the best photograph taken with a mobile phone was won by Lisa Buckingham from Cosham, for her striking photograph of cloud formations over Farlington Marshes. The judging team felt her dramatic image really stood out – an impressive achievement on a mobile phone, which she says is ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes and the rich colours and drama of big skies.
Highly Commended entries
Junior
Clara Boniface – Bearded tit at Thorney Island
Flynn Thaitanunde‑Lobb – Resourceful wheatear
Joe Scorey – Ringed plover
Birds of the Solent
Dennis Gilman – Oystercatcher with a crab
Steve Payce – Sanderling with a fish
Darryl Gorman – Sanderling with a prawn
Solent Landscapes
Steve Aldhous – Brent geese at Lepe
Mike Bainbridge – Canada geese over Keyhaven
Mobile
Linda Christoffersson – Milford on Sea
Mandy Sim-Cornes – Frenzied feeding flock
Bird Aware’s annual competition aims to raise awareness of the remarkable wildlife along the Solent and to celebrate photography that respects and protects nature.
