A wildlife trust has opened entries for its 2025 photography competition.
The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) has invited nature lovers of all ages to capture the beauty of local wildlife for its 2025 nature photography competition.
The contest, which accepts entries until August 31, 2025, is a chance for people to showcase their talents and appreciate nature's everyday wonders.
The competition draws hundreds of entries from across the three counties and features categories such as 'Nature on Your Doorstep,' 'Birds,' 'Butterflies and Other Insects,' and 'Mobile Phone Photography.'
Most photographs should be taken at BBOWT nature reserves, but entries in the 'Children and Teens' and 'Nature on Your Doorstep' categories can be captured anywhere within the three counties.
Winners can enjoy bird-feeding goodies, a smart bird feeder camera with AI bird species recognition, and a photography workshop with Steve Gozdz of GG Wildlife Experiences.
The People's Choice Award winner will be featured on the front cover of BBOWT's 2026 calendar.
For younger entrants, bundles of nature books can be won for their schools.
All winners will have their photos featured in the Trust's 2026 wildlife calendar.
Chris Deeney, BBOWT's website and design officer, and a regular competition judge, shared tips for entrants: "A top tip to stand out with some great photos: take a moment to observe your subject.
"Look out for interesting behaviour, vibrant colours and hidden details.
"Often, slow and steady wins the race, if you are patient and stay silent then wildlife may come to you.
"Most importantly, have fun!
"Wildlife photography is a fantastic way to get lost in the details of the natural world and reap the benefits of mindful connection."
Serena Millen-Quinn, BBOWT’s events manager, expressed excitement about the 2025 competition launch: "We’re excited to launch the 2025 competition and once again celebrate the incredible wildlife and landscapes of our three counties through the eyes of the local photographers within our communities.
"Every year we’re blown away by the creativity and talent on display.
"It’s a real reminder of how important the natural world is to people.
"This year, we’re thrilled to bring back the People’s Choice Award after such a great response last time.
"It’s a fun and interactive way for the public to help us spotlight the images that really leave an impression.
"We’re also continuing our mobile phone category, which proved hugely popular.
"Whether you’re snapping a fox in your garden or a butterfly on one of our reserves, we’d love to see your photos."
Details for submitting photographs can be found on the BBOWT website.
