The public is being invited to participate in a global vote to select their favourite nature photograph from a remarkable shortlist for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year award. A selection of twenty-four truly exceptional images has been unveiled for the Nuveen People's Choice Award, offering a diverse range of captivating scenes from the natural world.
An Exceptional Line-Up of Nature Photography
This year's shortlist features a stunning array of photographs that document both the beauty and the challenges facing wildlife across the globe. The images have been carefully chosen from over sixty thousand entries submitted to the prestigious annual competition. These twenty-four photographs are in addition to the one hundred winning images that were announced back in October, making this a special supplementary category decided entirely by public preference.
Diverse Subjects from Around the World
The shortlisted photographs showcase an incredible variety of subjects and stories. Among the compelling images are a polar bear family resting together in the summer heat, a sloth carefully sheltering its baby from rainfall, and flamingos positioned beneath power lines in a striking composition. Other notable entries include a juvenile swimming crab hitching a nocturnal ride on a jellyfish, a pangolin pup being cared for in a rescue centre, and a bear taking refuge from the rain inside a furnace with a butterfly delicately perched on its nose.
Further highlights from the selection feature young kestrels preparing to fledge from their nest, a massive superpod of spinner dolphins moving through the ocean, and a sobering image of a huge pile of confiscated snares from a national park in Uganda. Another powerful photograph captures young bear cubs play-fighting on a road, silhouetted dramatically against the glow of car headlights, illustrating the intersection of wildlife and human environments.
Public Participation and Exhibition Display
Dr Douglas Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum in London, which hosts the competition, expressed his enthusiasm for public involvement. He stated that this is an opportunity for people everywhere to join the jury and help select which photograph will be displayed in the museum's flagship exhibition. Dr Gurr emphasised that this year's selection of images is truly exceptional, whether they are showcasing fascinating animal behaviour or platforming powerful conservation stories.
How to Vote and Important Dates
Voting is now open to anyone around the world through an online platform. Additionally, visitors to the exhibition at the Natural History Museum in London can cast their votes using digital screens on site. The winning entry, along with four runners-up, will be officially announced on the 25th of March. These selected photographs will then be prominently showcased within the exhibition, giving the public's favourite images special recognition.
This People's Choice Award represents a wonderful opportunity for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers to engage directly with some of the world's finest wildlife imagery. The photographs not only capture breathtaking moments but also serve to highlight important environmental issues and the urgent need for conservation efforts worldwide.
