The art of wildlife photography has found its footing this year, boasting exhibitions and contests across the country and beyond. One such notable event is the sixth annual "Hit Me with Your Best Shot" exhibit, which has opened its doors at the Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center located at 1001 Ryan St. With its reception scheduled from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on September 27, 2024, this event promises to delight both photography enthusiasts and bird lovers alike.
This year’s exhibit showcases stunning bird photography submitted to the juried competition. Over 235 vibrant images were received from 37 entrants hailing from 15 different states. The editorial team from Bird Watcher's Digest Magazine, Dawn Hewitt and Bruce Wunderlich, undertook the task of judging and selecting the top 50 images for display. Notably, the awards ceremony for the show is set to announce winners for best in show and top three positions across two categories—open and fixed-lens camera—during the reception, with total cash prizes amounting to $1,400 awarded to the winners.
Dan Plummer, president of Gallery by the Lake, emphasized the significance of this year's competition expansion, which now includes bird species from outside the United States. This inclusion means guests will have the opportunity to view not only familiar North American birds like herons and burrowing owls, but also exotic species such as the long-tailed sylph and the smooth-billed ani from Central and South America, red-footed boobies from the Tropical Atlantic, and the lilac-breasted roller from Africa. Plummer explained, "By allowing photos of birds from around the world, ‘Hit Me with Your Best Shot’ can show people what beautiful and unusual birds exist outside of the United States and maybe spark peoples’ curiosity about wildlife."
One of the exhibit's primary aims is education. Plummer shared his hope to inspire guests toward conservation efforts, asserting, "We’d like to create more interest in our special natural resources—habitats and all the flora and fauna they hold—for their protection, and for the public’s enjoyment." The exhibition runs free of charge and will be accessible until November 20. Visitors can view the exhibit during the gallery's operating hours, Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Beyond local competitions, wildlife photography contests have gained global traction, with various competitions catering to amateur and professional photographers alike. Such contests not only showcase breathtaking vistas and animals but also offer photographers—and viewers—a platform to advocate for wildlife conservation.
Recently, The International Wildlife Film Festival hosted its annual competition, focusing on the connection between wildlife conservation and visual storytelling. This competition has welcomed entries from several countries, emphasizing how photography is intertwined with environmental education and advocacy. Each submitted photo is assessed based on its aesthetic quality, individualism, and ability to convey significant messages about wildlife preservation.
Around the world, similar events are shaping perceptions of wildlife through visual arts. For example, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is renowned for its grand presentations and exceptional entries. Each year, this prestigious event garners attention from millions, allowing viewers to experience the planet's beauty and fragile ecosystems through the lens of talented photographers. An exhibition of the winners will tour various locations globally, providing continuing education on the human impact on nature through photography.
Another rising trend is the increase of online contests, making it easier for photographers across diverse geographic locations to participate without needing to travel far. Online platforms have made it possible for photographers to submit entries from the comfort of their homes, allowing fresh voices and perspectives to emerge from various backgrounds.
For local photographers, engaging with wildlife photography contests can be rewarding beyond just recognition. Many contests offer workshops led by experienced photographers, providing valuable tips and trick techniques to develop one’s photography skills. Photographers can gain insights on pivotal topics like composition, lighting, and animal behavior from real professionals. Attending such workshops can create networking opportunities for aspiring photographers to connect with industry veterans.
Turning to photography also presents numerous benefits for conservation efforts. It creates awareness and appreciation for local wildlife, helping to forge connections between communities and their natural environments. Photographers have demonstrated their ability to change hearts and minds, vividly capturing moments of animal behavior often unknown to the public. This, in turn, fosters support for local conservation efforts and can lead to increased advocacy for preserving unique habitats.
At the grassroots level, photography clubs are forming, with many dedicated to wildlife photography. These clubs often host regular outings for members to document local wildlife and encourage beginners to sharpen their skills alongside more experienced photographers. Local exhibitions can also be organized, providing opportunities for community members to see the work of local photographers, highlighting not only the beauty of the region's wildlife but also asking them to respect and preserve it.
Planning on entering any photography contests this year? Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming deadlines and submission requirements. Preparation is key to creating dynamic, engaging entries. Whether you live near coastal regions, forests, or urban settings, there's wildlife all around deserving to be captured through your lens.
With the return of events such as “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” the vibrant world of wildlife photography continues to thrive, savoring the beauty of nature and its creatures. Now more than ever, participants can contribute to creating meaningful visual narratives, joining together to celebrate wildlife through their unique lenses. So, get outside with your camera!
