This year’s exhibition holds special significance as it arrives in Pakistan at a time when the country faces pressing climate challenges
The prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is celebrating its 60th anniversary with an exhibition showcasing the 18 winning images from this year’s categories, including underwater photography, photojournalism, mammal behavior, and urban wildlife. The exhibition’s powerful images not only capture the breathtaking beauty of the natural world but also address crucial conservation issues, inspiring audiences to take action in support of the planet.
Since its inception in 1965, Wildlife Photographer of the Year has grown to become the most prominent wildlife photography competition globally. The competition now attracts entries from over 117 countries and territories, a testament to its enduring appeal. The award-winning images will embark on an international tour, reaching over a million people across the globe through a partnership between the Museum, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and other key partners.
This year’s exhibition holds special significance as it arrives in Pakistan at a time when the country faces pressing climate challenges. The British High Commission is hosting the exhibition to encourage dialogue on environmental protection and inspire individuals and communities to take action. The exhibition will be available for viewing at the British Council Library in Karachi from 27 January to 31 January, followed by a display in Lahore from 11 February to 21 February. Entry is free, but pre-registration is required.
Kathy Moran, chair of the judging panel, reflected on the diversity of the images in this year’s selection. “These images represent the evolution of the competition through the years, from pure natural history to a broader representation of the natural world—both its beauty and its challenges,” she said. “It’s a powerful collection with which to launch this milestone anniversary.”
Dr. Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum, expressed pride in the exhibition’s enduring impact. “As we celebrate 60 years of Wildlife Photographer of the Year, we also celebrate the generations of visitors who have been inspired by the beauty and majesty of these images, forming millions of connections with nature.”
Jane Marriott CMG OBE, the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, highlighted the exhibition’s significance for the country. “Pakistan is home to some of the most diverse wildlife on the planet, and we are truly fortunate to have this extraordinary set of images here,” she said. “I hope this exhibition will inspire Pakistani photographers to participate in future competitions and make their mark on the global stage.”
The 2023 competition received an incredible 59,228 entries, submitted by photographers of all ages and skill levels. A panel of international experts judged the entries based on creativity, originality, and technical excellence. The winning images represent a diverse range of species, behaviors, and conservation issues, reflecting the competition’s growth and its commitment to showcasing the wonders and challenges of the natural world.
The winners across various categories include:
- Alberto Román Gómez (Spain) – Winner of the 10 and Under Category
- Parham Pourahmad (USA) – Winner of the 11-14 Category
- Alexis Tinker Tsavalas (Germany) – Winner of the 15-17 Category
- Igor Metelskiy (Russia) – Winner of Animals in Their Environment
- John E Marriott (Canada) – Winner of Animal Portraits
- Jack Zhi (USA) – Winner of Behaviour: Birds
- Hikkaduwa Liyanage Prasantha Vinod (Sri Lanka) – Winner of Behaviour: Mammals
- Karine Aigner (USA) – Winner of Behaviour: Amphibians and Reptiles
- Ingo Arndt (Germany) – Winner of Behaviour: Invertebrates
- Justin Gilligan (Australia) – Winner of Oceans: The Bigger Picture
- Fortunato Gatto (Italy) – Winner of Plants and Fungi
- Jiří Hřebíček (Czech Republic) – Winner of Natural Artistry
- Matthew Smith (UK/Australia) – Winner of Underwater
- Robin Darius Conz (Germany) – Winner of Urban Wildlife
- Shane Gross (Canada) – Winner of Wetlands: The Bigger Picture
- Britta Jaschinski (UK/Germany) – Winner of Photojournalism
- Thomas Peschak (South Africa/Germany) – Winner of the Photojournalist Story Award
- Sage Ono (USA) – Winner of the Rising Star Portfolio Award
The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition continues to inspire future generations of photographers and nature advocates, bringing global attention to the need for conservation and respect for our planet’s diverse ecosystems.
