The Surreal Image That Won Bird Photographer Of The Year 2025
Bird photography has a special way of stopping time. Whether it’s a hawk frozen mid-flight or a tiny songbird resting in the sun, these moments remind us how incredible the natural world can be when seen up close.
Every year, thousands of photographers head outdoors at sunrise, wait in silence for hours, and press the shutter at just the right moment. The Bird Photographer of the Year competition exists to celebrate exactly that kind of dedication, and the 2025 winners have officially been revealed.
This year’s grand prize winner is a jaw-dropping example of perfect timing and vision. Out of more than 33,000 entries submitted by photographers worldwide, Canadian photographer Liron Gertsman emerged victorious with a surreal and almost otherworldly shot.
His winning image features a magnificent frigatebird gliding across the sky, perfectly silhouetted against the backdrop of a total solar eclipse in Mexico. The precise alignment of the bird and the eclipse makes the photo feel like something out of a dream, a rare natural phenomenon framed by a creature known for its grace and power.
Gertsman’s dedication paid off with the £3,500 top prize, securing his place among the world’s leading bird photographers. In his words, capturing that moment felt like “watching nature write its own masterpiece in real time.”
Across 11 different categories, photographers showcased the diversity of birdlife in every corner of the globe, from delicate close-ups that highlight feathers like delicate brushstrokes to dramatic scenes of predators in action.
Whether shot in forests, wetlands, deserts, or backyards, the images reveal the striking complexity, vulnerability, and strength of bird species both familiar and rare.
Birds In Flight, Gold Award And Bird Photographer Of The Year 2025: The Frigatebird And The Diamond Ring By Liron Gertsman, Canada
Urban Birds, Silver Award: Urban Incubator By Tomáš Grim, Czech Republic
Best Portrait, Silver Award: Voice Of The Ash Forest By Maxime Legare - Vezina, Canada
The Art of Bird Photography
According to Dr. Chris Packham, a renowned naturalist and wildlife expert, bird photography transcends mere artistry; it captures fleeting moments that reveal deeper ecological truths.
He emphasizes that photographers need to understand their subjects' behaviors to anticipate those perfect shots, which requires extensive fieldwork and patience.
Dr. Packham often encourages aspiring photographers to immerse themselves in the environments they wish to capture, advocating for a respectful and ethical approach to wildlife photography.
Conservation (Single Image), Bronze Award: Vanishing Species By Hira Punjabi, India
Black And White, Bronze Award: On My Own By Jim Lee, Singapore
Urban Boreds, Bronze Award: Sainte Trinité By Benoit Henrion, France
Experts suggest that timing is crucial in bird photography. National Geographic's wildlife photographers often share insights on best practices, emphasizing early morning and late afternoon as prime times for capturing birds in action.
Light conditions play a pivotal role, influencing both the quality of images and the behavior of the birds. Patience is key, as many successful photographers spend hours waiting for the right moment.
Birds In The Environment, Gold Award: Feasting At Sunset By Franco Banfi, Switzerland
Birds In Flight, Silver Award: Through The Marigolds By Baiju Patil, India
Urban Birds, Gold Award: Feathered On Panels By Alex Pansier, Netherlands
Conservation Through Photography
Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, a dog cognition researcher, highlights the link between wildlife photography and conservation efforts. She states that stunning images can raise awareness about endangered species and habitats.
By showcasing the beauty and fragility of wildlife, photographers can inspire public engagement and support for conservation initiatives.
Horowitz urges photographers to consider how their work can contribute to larger environmental narratives, encouraging them to collaborate with conservation organizations to amplify their impact.
15 - 17 Years, Gold Award: Jewel Of The Forest By Harry Sedin, Sweden
Bird Behaviour, Silver Award: King Of The Forest By Mateusz Piesiak, Poland
Birds In The Environment, Gold Award: Feasting At Sunset By Franco Banfi, Switzerland
Many wildlife experts recommend supporting conservation through photography. This means not only capturing beautiful images but also participating in initiatives that protect natural habitats. The World Wildlife Fund suggests that photographers donate a portion of their earnings to conservation projects or volunteer their skills to raise awareness.
Engaging with local communities about the importance of wildlife can also enhance conservation efforts, creating a holistic approach to protecting these species.
Birds In Flight, Bronze Award: Overflight By Tibor Litauszki, Hungary
Bird Behaviour, Bronze Award Swollen Chest By Chen Ein-Dor, Israel
11 And Under, Gold Award: Graceful Flight Over Wild Bloom By Sasha Jumanca, Germany
Technical Skills and Creativity
Renowned wildlife photographer, Dr. David Gruber, argues that technical skills in photography are just as important as creativity. He suggests mastering camera settings, composition, and lighting techniques to elevate one’s photography.
Gruber emphasizes that understanding your equipment allows photographers to focus more on the creative aspects, such as storytelling through their images. He believes that capturing the essence of a moment requires both technical prowess and an artistic eye.
Best Portrait, Bronze Award: Snowstorm By Luca Lorenz, Germany
Creative Perspectives, Silver Award: Landing In A Sea Of Swans By Andreas Hemb, Sweden
Black And White, Gold Award: The Giant By Jannik Jansons, Germany
Photography workshops often highlight the importance of technical skills alongside creativity. B&H Photo offers classes that teach essential camera functions, enabling photographers to adapt to various situations in the field.
Learning the fundamentals not only enhances image quality but also boosts confidence, allowing photographers to experiment more with their creative visions in the wild.
Birds In The Environment, Bronze Award: Triumphant Arrival By Steffen Foerster, Germany
Black And White, Silver Award: Black And White Swan By Raoul Slater, Australia
Best Portrait, Gold Award: Bloody Petrel By Steffen Foerster, Germany
Ethics in Wildlife Photography
Dr. Patricia McConnell, an animal behaviorist, stresses the importance of ethical considerations in wildlife photography. She states that photographers must prioritize the well-being of their subjects and the environments they inhabit.
McConnell advises against invasive techniques that could disturb wildlife or disrupt their natural behaviors. By adhering to ethical guidelines, photographers can contribute positively to conservation while maintaining the integrity of their work.
Conservation (Single Image), Gold Award: Radiographing By Sarthak Agrawal, India
Creative Perspectives, Bronze Award: Under Your Nose By Jim Lee, Singapore
Creative Perspectives, Gold Award: Photo Art By Philipp Egger, Italy
Wildlife organizations often suggest establishing clear ethical guidelines for photographers. The Audubon Society provides resources that outline best practices for interacting with birds and their habitats, helping photographers make responsible choices.
These guidelines not only protect wildlife but also enhance the photographer's reputation as a responsible artist, fostering trust within the community.
15 - 17 Years, Gold Award And Young Bird Photographer Of The Year 2025: Minimalist Wings By Tomasz Michalski, Poland
Conservation (Single Image), Silver Award: Trapped By Charlotte Keast, United Kingdom
The Bird Photographer of the Year competition continues to prove just how powerful a single frame can be, not only as art but as a reminder of why these creatures deserve admiration and protection.
Want to explore the full collection of winning photos? Visit birdpoty.com or follow the competition on Instagram, Facebook, or X for more breathtaking bird moments captured through the lenses of passionate photographers.
Research-Based Understanding
The world of bird photography is not just about capturing stunning images; it's a powerful tool for conservation and education. Experts like Dr. Chris Packham and Dr. Alexandra Horowitz emphasize that photographers have a unique opportunity to influence public perception and foster a deeper connection with nature.
By combining technical skills with ethical practices, photographers can ensure their work contributes positively to wildlife conservation. As the Bird Photographer of the Year competition showcases, the dedication to art and ethics in photography can lead to a profound impact on our understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
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