Puffin picture triumphs in photo competition

These days, there are many superb cameras on the market for people to buy and to help ensure they are able to make the most of the technology on offer, some individuals book onto London photography courses.

Enthusiasts can also send the snaps they take into special competitions in a bid to receive some recognition for their efforts. One man who is no stranger to such contest is Austin Thomas from Merseyside. He recently secured the top spot in Marwell Wildlife’s annual Photographer of the Year competition, the Romsey Advertiser reports.

He captured an impressive image of a puffin in the rain. The striking bird had a beak full of small fish when the picture was taken.

Meanwhile, 15-year-old Alex Berryman from Fleet won the junior category with his picture of a kingfisher. He remarked: “I have achieved many Kingfisher shots over the past few years, this being one of my favourites. On this particular occasion, I spent six hours in a hide with only one brief visit from this female Kingfisher.”

Also achieving success was Lawrie Brailey of Southampton. She came top in the Marwell Wildlife residents category with her picture of the Colden Common Park’s male Amur tiger Gamin.

Judges for the contest included television presenter Philippa Forrester and award-winning wildlife photographer and author Heather Angel.

Commenting on the quality of entries, Ms Angel said: “The standard of this year’s Marwell Wildlife Photo Competition was high, which meant we spent much time deliberating over the engaging shots. Much care and thought had gone into the composition, the framing and the lighting – all essential factors in achieving an award-winning shot.”

By booking a London photography tour or a special course, individuals can raise the quality of the snaps they take and many people find they are able to take more pleasure from their efforts behind the lens.