The Bird Photographer of the Year 2024: Capturing Avian Beauty and Conservation Stories
Each year, the Bird Photographer of the Year (BPOTY) competition delivers a breathtaking showcase of avian splendor, where photographers from across the globe submit their finest images of birds. In 2024, this prestigious competition has once again brought attention to the beauty, intricacy, and diversity of bird species, with the overall winners pushing the boundaries of nature photography and storytelling. The photographs selected this year not only demonstrate outstanding technical skill but also emphasize the role bird photography plays in conservation.
Thousands of entries were submitted from over 100 countries, underscoring the universal appeal and shared passion for birdlife. The competition, divided into several categories, celebrates both the artistic and conservation efforts of photographers who dedicate their craft to avian subjects. Here, we’ll explore the top-winning photos and discuss the significance of bird photography in conservation and environmental awareness, and discover career paths in wildlife photography.
The 2025 competition is now open for entries and invites photographers of all experience levels to submit their best bird photos.
Grand Prize Winner: ‘When Worlds Collide’ by Patricia Homonylo
"When Worlds Collide" by Patricia Homonylo is the overall winner and winner of Bird Photographer of the Year. A powerful picture of more than 4,000 birds who perished after hitting Toronto windows.
Homonylo receives the coveted title and the top reward of £3,500. Additionally, the Conservation (Single Image) category awarded her photograph a Gold Award.
According to Homonylo, “Each year more than one billion birds die in North America alone due to collisions with windows.” She said, “I am a conservation photojournalist and have been working with the Fatal Light Awareness Program, where we save window-collision survivors in Toronto. Sadly, most of the birds we find are already dead. They are collected and at the end of the year we create this impactful display to honour the lives lost and increase public awareness.”
Category Highlights: Celebrating Birds in Their Diverse Glory
While Homonylo's image stole the spotlight as the grand prize winner, the competition also awarded category winners who showcased diverse aspects of birdlife. Here are the highlights from some of the winning images across categories:
Best Portrait
An image that best captures the character of the subject bird and its distinctive features. BPOTY look for images that include lots of detail, captured in a classic pose or showing the animal’s features.
1. Gold Winner, Best Portrait: 'Winter Pink' by Alan Murphy
Photographer Alan Murphy discovered this Grey-crowned Rosy Finch on a snowy day in Homer, Alaska. The bird patiently waited for him to quickly set up his tripod and camera, and he quickly took a few pictures before it decided to take off.
This photograph is like a breath of fresh air, set against a backdrop of vibrant boats in a marina and lighted by the kind of flat, lovely light that comes from falling snow. Can you smell the evergreen?
2. Silver Winner, Best Portrait: 'Swanception' by Samual Stone
Photographers can have ideas for images long before they have the chance or capacity to capture them. That precisely applied to Samual Stone from the United Kingdom.
"Every time I tried to make it happen, something wasn't quite right," he remarked. "I felt like I had hit a creative staleness." Stone paid a final visit to his neighborhood Mute Swans. This time, mist covered the area and the swans lined up, giving Stone the opportunity to take the picture of his dreams: Swanception.
3. Bronze Winner, Best Portrait: 'Black Grouse' by Markus Varesvuo
Black Grouse congregate on spring mornings for displaying and courtship for several weeks of the year. It can be fairly chilly and wintry. They take off before the sun comes up and land in the trees that encircle their courtship location.
According to Markus, "The males eventually descend, each claiming their area, and spend a few hours assessing one another, lunging at one another, and primarily fighting in a pretend manner. But occasionally, the exchanges turn into actual battles."
Birds in Flight
Celebrating avian mastery of the sky, this category focuses on birds in flight.
1. Gold Winner, Birds in Flight: 'Dawn's Whispers' by Hermis Haridas
Spreading its wings in a fluid motion, a Eurasian Hoopoe soars across the brightly colored canvas of an early morning sky illuminated by the dawn.
"Every time the bird captured an insect in the air, it would fly to a nearby tree," according to Haridas. "As a tribute to the coincidental discoveries that amidst the natural world await those who seek them out, that's when I got the idea to photograph the bird against a background divided into dark and light."
2. Silver Winner, Birds in Flight: 'Heavenly Elegant Flight' by Nicolas Groffal
Another instance of the cautious planner taking the picture comes from French photographer Nicolas Groffal, who set up in the garden to photograph European Goldfinches scuttling around in the winter months in search of food.
"It took me hundreds of photos to get the ideal photograph that perfectly represented the ephemeral beauty of wintertime nature," Groffal remarked. The title of this image is Heavenly Elegant Flight.
Birds in the Environment
This category focuses on photos that best demonstrate the relationship between a bird and its habitat.
1. Gold Winner, BITE: 'Immersion' by Kat Zhou
On a sunny day in Shetland, three Northern Gannets dive into the ocean. This species, which is the biggest seabird in Scotland, can dive up to 22 meters deep and is incredibly skilled in the water.
This picture was taken from a boat while scuba diving close to Noss, which is the location of the seventh-largest northern gannet colony in the United Kingdom. The population was formerly thought to be around 25,000 birds, but the avian flu outbreak tragically drastically decreased their numbers. When and whether their population will be able to recover is unknown. The birds were drawn to the boat by dead herring from a nearby herring fishery.
2. Bronze Winner, BITE: 'Feeding Frenzy' by Jonas Beyer
"While on a Zodiac cruise, I noticed some cape petrels on the ocean. Together with snow and gigantic petrels, I could see they were feasting on something as I got closer. Since I was carrying my large underwater camera, I saw an opportunity to take a picture of the divided sea surface. I noticed that all the birds were too preoccupied with feeding to be bothered by my presence as I cautiously drifted closer." Beyer said.
"I waited for the birds to approach after I had "parked" the boat near to some ice, leaned over, and lowered my underwater housing into the water. I was determined to get a picture that showed the surface as well as below it. Even though we cannot see exactly what they are eating on, I love this perspective of both worlds in one photo."
Bird Behaviour
This category celebrates images that best depict a behaviour of a bird. This might be the lekking display of a black grouse, the courtship of a great crested grebe, or a singing robin.
1. Gold Winner, Bird Behaviour: 'Scavenger' by Nathaniel Peck
The carcasses of an American black bear were found by hikers in West Virginia early in March 2023, beside a raging mountain stream. The bear had fought mange, and it was obvious from the big patches of lost fur that it had died.
"I set up a DSLR camera trap to take pictures of all the animals that came in to examine and scavenge off the bear after learning about the carcass and getting permission. The arrangement stayed in place for half a year. This turkey vulture began to visit the body frequently as the spring weather warmed, sometimes staying for hours at a time," Peck said.
2. Silver Winner, Bird Behaviour: 'Playful Fledgling' by Jack Zhi
Having flown for more than a week, this fledgling Peregrine falcon's abilities were growing every day. He began to improve his hunting skills even though he was still receiving food from his parents. Following a flying butterfly was his baby step because he was still too inexperienced to catch live birds in the air.
According to Jack, "He was certainly much faster than the butterfly and also nimble enough to keep up with it. Take a look at the focus! On some occasions, he was successful in catching the butterfly, playing with it for a brief while, and then releasing it."
Urban Birds
In an increasingly urban world, many birds are forced to live on the doorsteps of humans. This category explores the world of urban bird photography.
1. Gold Winner, UB: 'Treacherous Journey' by Grzegorz Długosz
About a kilometer from Poland's life-giving River Vistula, goosanders breed in the park. Due to food scarcity and safety concerns in the park, every mother must relocate her offspring as soon as possible to the river.
They travel across a six-lane freeway and through a number of subterranean passageways. Every year, a group of volunteers stops cars to assist them in crossing this dangerous route. They reach the River Vistula, where they can eat and develop, after crossing. Instead of using the eerie and gloomy underground path beneath it, the mother goosander in this picture is crossing a smaller road.
2. Bronze Winner, UB: 'Crows Watching TV' by Tomáš Grim
The tallest building in Germany, the Berlin Television Tower, makes an excellent backdrop for urban photography. However, it proved to be difficult in January since it was cold, dark, and difficult to take good photos.
"I was disappointed to see a jackdaw and hooded crow roost mixed together, conveniently located next to the tower I had been hoping for," Grim said.
Comedy Bird Photo
We want to see those funny moments in nature. This category looks for hilarious bird moments that are asking for a funny caption!
1. Gold Winner, CBP: 'A Modern Dancer' by Nadia Haq
“I was sitting on a Zodiac next to my husband and 10-year-old son near Brown Bluff, Antarctica, when we spotted a group of Adélie Penguins,” Haq recalls.
She added, “As we slowly approached them, they started to toboggan on the ice as if performing a modern dance move.”
The Young Bird Photographer of the Year: Andrés Luis Domínguez Blanco
The Young Bird Photographer of the Year 2024 was awarded to 14-year-old Spanish photographer Andrés Luis Domínguez Blanco for his creative angle on a nuthatch scrambling down an oak tree.
"I photographed this Eurasian nuthatch at Grazalema in southern Spain using a wide-angle lens. An oak tree next to a river provides cover for species such as woodpeckers and nuthatches coming down to drink. I was using a remote-control set-up, and I just had to wait. Since these species like to climb trunks, I thought about what their vision and perspective would be like." Blanco said.
The Role of Bird Photography in Conservation
The Bird Photographer of the Year competition goes beyond the celebration of stunning visual art. It serves as a critical platform for raising awareness about the importance of bird conservation. Many of the images submitted to the competition tell stories of species on the brink of extinction, or of habitats being ravaged by deforestation, pollution, and climate change.
By documenting these pressing environmental issues, bird photographers act as ambassadors for the avian world, using their work to educate and inspire conservation efforts. Through powerful imagery, they create an emotional connection between viewers and the natural world, highlighting the urgency of protecting both birds and their ecosystems.
In particular, the Conservation Award winner’s photograph of the forest owlet speaks to the delicate balance between human development and wildlife survival. With birds serving as vital indicators of environmental health, these images underscore the need for global efforts to safeguard biodiversity.
The Role of FLAP in Bird Conservation: A Lifesaving Mission
Bird photography not only captures moments of beauty but also plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the conservation efforts necessary to protect these vulnerable creatures. One such organization, FLAP Canada (Fatal Light Awareness Program), is dedicated to safeguarding migratory birds from the dangers posed by urban environments, particularly building collisions. Each year, millions of migratory birds are killed by collisions with glass windows, a growing problem as cities expand and urbanization increases. FLAP has been actively working to mitigate these risks through education, advocacy, and rescue operations.
FLAP encourages bird-safe building designs and urban planning practices that reduce bird mortality rates, including the application of bird-friendly window treatments and building codes that prioritize bird safety. For wildlife photographers, especially those based in urban areas, FLAP’s work is incredibly relevant. Photographers can document the impact of cityscapes on bird life and use their platforms to support FLAP’s mission, helping to raise awareness about the dangers of light pollution and glass collisions for migratory species.
By supporting organizations like FLAP, both seasoned and aspiring wildlife photographers can use their art as a force for good, contributing to broader conservation efforts. Their images can bring these critical issues into the public eye, encouraging action to reduce human-caused bird deaths and promote safer urban environments for birds.
Career Opportunities for the Young Generation and Wildlife Photographers
The field of bird and wildlife photography offers rich career opportunities, not only in the art and media sectors but also in conservation, education, and scientific research. For young generations passionate about birds, nature, and photography, the growing demand for wildlife documentation, environmental awareness, and conservation outreach has opened new avenues of professional growth.
1. Wildlife Photography
Aspiring photographers can pursue careers in wildlife photography, working for nature magazines, photography agencies, and documentary film productions. Renowned publications such as National Geographic, BBC Wildlife Magazine, and Audubon Magazine frequently feature the work of talented wildlife photographers who specialize in capturing the natural world. Many wildlife photographers also earn a living through selling prints, leading photography workshops, or working as freelance photojournalists.
With advancements in camera technology and social media platforms like Instagram, wildlife photographers now have more opportunities to showcase their work to global audiences. Competitions like the Bird Photographer of the Year serve as launching pads for careers, offering exposure and recognition. Photographers who excel in competitions can also attract sponsorships, collaboration opportunities, and funding for personal projects.
2. Conservation Photography
Conservation photography is another growing field where young photographers can make a significant impact. This career path blends photography with activism, as photographers document the environmental challenges faced by wildlife and habitats, highlighting issues such as deforestation, climate change, and species extinction. Many organizations, like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Conservation International, hire or collaborate with conservation photographers to visually tell the stories behind their conservation projects.
By working with conservation organizations, photographers can help influence policy change, fundraise for environmental causes, and bring critical issues to the forefront of public consciousness. With the rise of eco-tourism and global interest in sustainability, wildlife photographers focusing on conservation can leverage their images to inspire positive action, such as supporting endangered species protections or habitat restoration initiatives.
3. Birding Tours and Wildlife Photography Workshops
As interest in wildlife photography grows, so do opportunities in eco-tourism and wildlife education. Professional wildlife photographers often lead birding tours and wildlife photography workshops around the world, offering aspiring photographers hands-on training in capturing images of birds and other animals in their natural habitats. This career path not only allows photographers to travel and explore the world’s most biodiverse regions but also to share their passion and expertise with others.
For the younger generation, these workshops and tours offer invaluable mentorship and guidance, allowing them to develop their skills under the tutelage of experienced photographers while also learning about the importance of wildlife conservation.
4. Careers in Wildlife Media and Documentary Filmmaking
In addition to still photography, many wildlife photographers find fulfilling careers in wildlife media and documentary filmmaking. Organizations such as BBC Earth, Discovery Channel, and Netflix's Our Planet regularly produce wildlife documentaries that require skilled photographers and filmmakers to capture animals in their natural environments. A career in wildlife filmmaking can take professionals to the remotest parts of the world, where they document rare and endangered species, shedding light on conservation issues through storytelling.
With the rise of streaming platforms and the increasing demand for nature documentaries, wildlife filmmakers are in high demand. For young photographers interested in both wildlife and cinematography, this career path offers a unique blend of artistic creativity and environmental advocacy.
5. Scientific Research and Ornithology
Photographers with a deep interest in bird biology and behavior can also work in collaboration with ornithologists and researchers. Photography plays a vital role in scientific documentation, helping researchers track bird populations, migration patterns, and breeding behaviors. Many research institutions and non-profit organizations hire photographers to visually document fieldwork and research findings, contributing to ornithological studies and conservation efforts.
In this context, photographers can contribute valuable data through photo documentation, helping to identify bird species, track habitat changes, or record evidence of human impact on wildlife. Combining photography with scientific knowledge can lead to careers in research-based organizations or government wildlife agencies dedicated to preserving biodiversity.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Bird Photographers
The Bird Photographer of the Year competition, along with organizations like FLAP and various wildlife conservation efforts, presents young generations with endless opportunities to pursue their passion for nature and photography. Whether aiming for a career in conservation, wildlife photography, or scientific research, the field offers numerous ways to make an impact, blending art, activism, and environmental stewardship.
With technology continually evolving, offering new tools and platforms for photography, and growing global awareness of environmental issues, now is an exciting time for young photographers to step into the world of wildlife photography. The opportunities are vast, whether through traditional career paths or more modern approaches like social media storytelling, drone photography, and conservation campaigns.
In a world increasingly concerned with environmental sustainability, the work of bird and wildlife photographers has never been more essential. Through their lenses, they help foster a deeper appreciation of nature, highlight the urgent need for conservation, and inspire future generations to protect the world’s precious biodiversity.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Birds and the Art of Photography
The Bird Photographer of the Year 2024 competition has once again showcased the extraordinary beauty of the avian world. From action-packed displays of courtship to intimate portraits of birds in their natural habitats, the winning images capture moments of grace, power, and vulnerability that connect us to the wonders of nature.
These photographs are more than just aesthetic achievements; they are also calls to action, urging us to recognize the challenges birds face in a rapidly changing world. As we celebrate the winners, we are reminded of the critical role that bird photographers play in conservation, inspiring us all to protect these creatures and the environments they inhabit.
Whether it’s through documenting endangered species, capturing moments of flight, or simply reminding us of the birds that share our urban spaces, the images from this year’s competition serve as a powerful testament to the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.
