To create this series of underwater images I used different lightning techniques on a variety of animals as an exercise to show how light can affect the mood of a picture. The color orange was merely used to give each image an easy way to connect to each other for the untrained eye. A mix of direct, back and inward lightning was used on animals whose skins react differently to light, either highlighting its texture, letting it through, completely blocking it or bouncing it back to the viewer.
The series presents two species of grebes.
The Great Crested Grebe and the Red-necked Grebe.
From courtship to raising chicks.
The photographs were taken against the light, which allowed for a beautiful palette of colours and highlights.
Sunset breaching in tasman sea sydney Australia
This adult humpback whale gave us very good action with several of breaches during sunset about 2nm east boat harbour gap sydney.
The misfortune of some brings happiness to others. The saying is cruel, but it\\\'s true, for these polar bears, the death of a whale often heralds a royal feast. And it\\\'s an understatement to say that news travels fast on the ice. Attracted by the appetizing smell, about thirty bears out of the roughly 68 recorded in the area rushed to the scene without quarreling or resorting to claws to claim their share. A behavior that is almost benevolent, with no aggression, possibly linked to the abundance of food, was seen for the first time in East Greenland.
Peregrine Falcon chasing Brown Pelican away from its nest to protect its chicks (that was located on the 300 foot cliffs overlooking the pounding surf). Torrey Pines, CA USA. Sony a1, Sony 600mm GM, crop for composition, Topaz Denoise, Photoshop2025. EXIF: 1/4000s, f/5.6, ISO 1250.
For over 11 years, I have been dedicated to drone filming, and 5 years ago, I founded VolandoVoy.Tv, a company specializing in the use of these aerial devices to capture images from impossible angles. This extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep mastery of drones, particularly in the context of wildlife, having filmed a wide variety of animals in diverse natural settings.
Despite the noise that drones typically produce, I have perfected a technique of careful and patient approach. My goal is to allow animals to gradually become familiar with the drone’s presence, enabling surprisingly close interactions without disturbing their natural behavior. This skill has allowed me to capture unique perspectives, getting close to animals without causing discomfort to the different species I’ve filmed.
In the exhibition “Heartbeats of the Arctic - A Bird’s Eye View,” I aim to show how, with the responsible use of these tools, it is possible to capture images of animals in their habitat that would otherwise be nearly impossible, due to the danger or complexity of human interaction in their environment.
All the photographs in this exhibition were taken with a drone, in some cases operated from several kilometers away and just centimeters from the ground, achieving a perspective similar to that of a ground-based camera. In other instances, I take advantage of the drones’ versatility to capture unique frames in the icy landscapes of the Arctic, offering a different view of this ecosystem and its wildlife.
Through this photographic exhibition, I hope to transport you to the majestic landscapes of the Arctic, where its wildlife is endangered as its habitat shrinks due to climate change and the resulting ice melt. I also aim to foster a deep connection with the heartbeat that still resonates in every corner of this wild environment.
In Solio Conservancy, one golden afternoon, a rhino grazed peacefully around us, its sheer presence commanding respect. Slowly, I noticed its curiosity growing—it edged closer, step by step, until it was just meters away. As it got comfortable, I had to switch to a wide-angle lens to capture its massive frame. The sheer size, the powerful build, and that incredible horn left me in awe. Goosebumps ran through me as I framed its calm yet imposing demeanor against a sky painted with scattered clouds. To witness and photograph such a majestic creature up close was a humbling, unforgettable experience.
Drongos have adapted themselves to human habitat. Burning farm lands give them an opportunity to capture insects. It is known to swoop on insects during flight and is famous for its daredevil stunts. The agile bird will manoeuvre inside and across fire flames catching fleeing insects on the move.
Power Unleashed: Elephants of Amboseli in full musth, a force of nature not to be challenged
Musth—a condition in male elephants where they experience a surge in testosterone, making them highly aggressive and dominant.
Signs of Musth in Elephants:
1. Increased Testosterone:
• Their testosterone levels can be up to 60 times higher than normal.
• This makes them more aggressive, unpredictable, and dominant over other elephants.
2. Temporal Gland Secretions:
• A thick, dark, and oily fluid called temporin oozes from glands on the sides of their head (between the eyes and ears).
• The smell is very strong and acts as a signal to other elephants.
3. Constant Urination (Dribbling):
• They leak strong-smelling urine continuously, leaving a trail wherever they go.
• This scent warns other males and attracts females.
4. Extreme Aggression:
• They challenge other bulls, even attacking and killing weaker ones.
• They might charge at anything—vehicles, trees, and even humans.
5. Lack of Fear & Increased Energy:
• They eat less but are more active and restless.
• Even dominant males avoid a musth elephant.
Soft morning lights reflecting on the body of a sperm whale when it descending to the blue abyss.
A sperm whale can dive down more than 2,000 meters and can stay submerged for up to an hour to hunt squids, octopuses, sharks and other animals that live in the deep ocean, particularly giant squids.
A family of sperm whales rubbing their heads together while socializing, sharing the love and close bond between family members.
Observation has show that sperm whales raise their young in communal family groups made up of related females. These intelligent mammals are known for their strong social bonds and tight-knit family structure, where individuals frequently interact with their favorite siblings, aunts, and grandmothers.
And sperm whale families regularly socialize with each other and cooperate in caring for their young, providing a unique example of cooperative care within the animal kingdom.
A Day in the Life of a Giant – Bonding with the Rhino
From the first rays of dawn to the golden hues of dusk, I spent an entire day with this magnificent rhino, observing its every movement, from grazing in the morning mist to resting under the afternoon sun. The advantage of spending extended time with a subject is invaluable—it allows the animal to become comfortable with your presence, leading to more natural and intimate moments. Trust builds, behaviors unfold organically, and the true essence of the wild can be captured in its most authentic and breathtaking form.
Mother's lap is heaven.
While walking on the road, I suddenly saw this baby monkey in its mother's lap and I felt like a wonder of nature. Nature's lap is heaven. Just look at the baby how innocent, fearless and awestruckly looks towards the camera. Just like as he knows and he wants to be it's photo.
Photograph of two majestic king penguins sharing a moment of connection on the sandy beach of the Falkland Islands.
The Falkland Islands, while known for their diverse wildlife, they are home to smaller populations of king penguins, along with other species such as gentoo, Magellanic, and rockhopper penguins.
In Solio Conservancy, one golden afternoon, a rhino grazed peacefully around us, its sheer presence commanding respect. Slowly, I noticed its curiosity growing—it edged closer, step by step, until it was just meters away. As it got comfortable, I had to switch to a wide-angle lens to capture its massive frame. The sheer size, the powerful build, and that incredible horn left me in awe. Goosebumps ran through me as I framed its calm yet imposing demeanor against a sky painted with scattered clouds. To witness and photograph such a majestic creature up close was a humbling, unforgettable experience.
From the brink of extinction to a resilient return: the inspiring story of the oryx.
Once listed as Extinct in the Wild, conservation efforts brought this majestic species back to its native habitats. Today, oryx populations thrive, roaming freely in the desert landscapes they call home.
This photo series captures the oryx\'s remarkable journey, showcasing their adaptability, strength, and beauty.
|| BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM ||
A Spot billed Pelican caught during water scooping. They use this technique to drink and also to carry water for their babies which saves them from crocodiles in the water.
This extraordinary photograph captures a red deer stag during the rut on a crisp morning. The visible cloud of breath escaping from its mouth in the cold air adds dynamic energy to the scene. The stag\'s silhouette against the mist and subdued light creates an atmosphere of wild nature filled with power and mystery. It is a majestic depiction of one of nature\'s most impressive rituals.
When there are many eagles in the sky there is always the chance for aerial confrontation. The eagles do not injure each other but they do affect defensive postures in midair. I was lying on the ramp of a boat at water level panning the flight of the eagles as they approached hoping for a quick and easy snack. The haunting sound of their cries filled the air. Each eagle rotated in space and extended talons before grabbing over the water but these two birds came very close and the lower bird assumed a posture of submission.
I took these photos with this beautiful bird on the last day of the year and the first day of the new year. It was very cold but I loved every minute of it.
In the heart of the forest, a red deer stag proudly displays its antlers adorned with ferns and leaves—a natural crown earned during its wanderings. Its calm yet attentive gaze reflects the harmony and strength that wild nature embodies. The colorful ferns and softly blurred background enhance the magic of this moment, showcasing not only the majesty of the stag but also the deep connection between the animal and its environment. This unique capture celebrates the beauty and singularity of nature.
Nature's Ballet -Pin tailed Wydah Male Birds' Mating Dances to Impress the female bird
The Pin-Tailed Whydah (Vidua macroura) is a small, striking bird known for its elaborate courtship dance and distinctively long tail feathers in males. Here's a detailed description of its courtship dance and mating ritual:
Appearance
Male: During the breeding season, the male Pin-Tailed Whydah is adorned with an impressive long tail, which can be up to 20 centimeters in length. The plumage is striking, with a black head and back, white underparts, and a bright red bill.
Female: The female is more modestly colored with a brown, streaked body, resembling a sparrow. She lacks the long tail feathers of the male.
Courtship Dance
Territorial Display: The male begins by establishing and defending a territory, often a conspicuous perch from which he can display his tail and perform his courtship dance.
Visual Display: The courtship dance involves the male showcasing his long tail feathers and performing a series of elaborate aerial displays. These displays include:
Flying High: The male flies vertically upwards in a zigzag pattern.
Hovering and Descending: Once he reaches a certain height, he hovers momentarily before descending in a slow, spiraling motion, with his long tail streaming behind him.
Tail Display: During these flights, the male fans out his tail feathers, making them more visible and impressive to the female.
A majestic red deer stag in full glory, shaking water off its wet coat after the rain. The droplets create an aura of dynamic motion around its powerful frame, emphasizing its strength and grandeur. Its intense gaze directly into the lens captivates attention, revealing the fearless nature of this wild animal. The blurred backdrop of the forest clearing enhances the sense of wilderness and harmony with its surroundings. This unique shot captures the essence of primal nature and its untamed energy.
Наблюдала схватку двух лебедей на озере Светлое Алтайского края. Сюжет один, но если рассматривать каждую фотографию в отдельности то в голове рождаются абсолютно разные истории. И любовные интимные встречи, и \"Набравшийся\" лебедь в сопровождении сотоварища, и драки, и преследование ухажера за своей музой...
The front of the boat was lowered as we motored across Kachemak Bay. I could lie on the floor of the ramp to shoot at water level. Numerous eagles approached and eagerly anticipated the possibility of snatching a treat. A frozen herring was tossed and I locked onto an eagle swiftly approaching. There was a brief kerfuffle and I realized that two eagles had converged. Neither was injured and neither got a fish but they separated and both birds circled above in hopes of another snack.
Pin-tailed Whydah(Vidua macroura) male fluttering and courting in the air to impress the female in the breeding season in Pasir ris farmway at Singapore .
A series of silhouettes of a stag at dawn and dusk.
This series was created over a period of two years.
The silhouettes of the stag, without showing all the information, are the result of the search for the ultimate expression of the natural world.
a striking desert scene featuring a large owl, likely a Pharaoh eagle-owl engaging with a small lizard. The owl’s beautifully patterned plumage blends shades of sandy brown, cream, and black, perfectly camouflaged with the desert surroundings. It is crouched low, its sharp, intense eyes focused on the lizard, which appears to be mid-air in a defensive or startled leap. The soft golden sand and warm lighting create a harmonious tone, emphasizing the dramatic interaction between predator and prey in this natural desert habitat.
Last year, when I was in the Griechenland region for photography, I got to take a close-up photo of this beautiful bird. It is not usually easy to take close-up photos of these birds. However, I consider this photo a rare opportunity.
My eyes look so sharp and beautiful. I got to take this for photo.
The photograph captures a red deer stag in the morning mist, surrounded by majestic trees and dense forest undergrowth. The animal, adorned with branches and leaves, raises its head proudly during its roar, emphasizing its dominance during the rutting season. This shot celebrates the beauty of nature, showcasing the harmony between wildlife and its environment.
Africa’s classic: the biggest tusked bull in the Amboseli ecosystem against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountain, Africa’s most recognisable natural landmark, in late morning light shining on his ivory and the snows of Kilimanjaro.
Hokkaido is a great place to enjoy wildlife. Ezo red fox are common but you need luck to see them. They randomly appear by the roadside casually. This is a series of photos of the Kitsune captured at Notsuke and Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, I captured the shadow of a leopard silently climbing down from a tree. Its sleek, powerful form moved with natural grace, blending effortlessly into the fading light. Each step was purposeful, and the leopard’s stealth was mesmerizing, a true embodiment of nature’s quiet predator. The shadows swallowed its form, making it nearly invisible, yet its presence was undeniable. This unique moment not only showcases the beauty of this elusive creature but also highlights its incredible ability to adapt and survive in the wild. A perfect blend of power, stealth, and grace in one fleeting image.
This photo series is about the Magical Masai mara during golden hours where the Giraffes walking on the horizon and sunrise view, which is mesmerizing to watch and capture images, once in a life time opportunity.
When eagles dive they can invert and fly swiftly upside down only to rotate at the last few seconds and extend their talons to grasp their prey. Panning this aerial feat against a rock wall presented a challenge for focus but I was pleased with the results.
On a trip to Fernando de Noronha, I came across flocks of Brown Boobies hunting sardines on the edge of Conceição beach. The synchronicity of the boobies gave me perfect moments to take some photos.
Step into a captivating scene where nature's own dancers perform a passionate tango under the open skies. This series of photos captures kangaroos in the midst of a passionate tango, seemingly engaged in a graceful dance of affection and joy. Each frame presents these majestic creatures in dynamic poses that evoke the elegance of a well-rehearsed performance, while their interactions hint at a tender, almost romantic connection. From joyful moves to gentle nuzzles, the images offer a delightful narrative of kangaroo courtship and camaraderie, blending the wild beauty of the Australian landscape with the charm of a whimsical dance. Witness the captivating artistry of the animal kingdom as these kangaroos "dance" and "kiss," creating a heartwarming celebration of nature's own dance of life.
A close up view of a Lineated barbet (Psilopogon lineatus) and her chicks in a nest among green foliage .The intimate moment when a parent bonds with a child through feeding .
These cute little mice are a joy to observe while they explore their surroundings and love to climb on flowers and branches to have a better view of the area.
The sheer presence of the whale shark as it glides effortlessly through the water is breathtaking. Witnessing its massive form move with such grace feels almost surreal, as if time itself slows down in its wake.
\"FEAR AND PAIN\"
This was shot on Raja ji Tiger reserve, Uttarakhand. Mother was killed by same Leopard just before clicking this image. This baby monkey was clinging to mothers breast when this Leopard attacked the Mother. Later leopard play for some times about 30 min with this little monkey and then killed this too. Every thing goes so quickly in front of me, Some how I managed to capture some images with high ISO, due to evening safari time and there were so many bushes.
In this captured moment, two male Baya weavers (Ploceus philippinus) engage in a fierce battle, each determined to defend his nest—their cherished creation. With their futures on the line, they fend off rivals, knowing that the nest holds the key to winning a mate.
Este atajacaminos aterriza luego de intentar capturar insectos. Los mismos son atraídos por las luces de la ciudad y resultan una trampa mortal para ellos.
The giraffe family enjoys a quiet moment together as the sun sets over the vast savanna. Silhouetted against the fiery sky, the gentle giants move in harmony, embracing the peaceful rhythm of nature and the warmth of family bonds.
Masai Mara, Kenya
Heartbeats of the Arctic walrus - A Bird’s Eye View
For over 11 years, I have been dedicated to drone filming, and 5 years ago, I founded VolandoVoy.Tv, a company specializing in the use of these aerial devices to capture images from impossible angles. This extensive experience has allowed me to gain a deep mastery of drones, particularly in the context of wildlife, having filmed a wide variety of animals in diverse natural settings.
Despite the noise that drones typically produce, I have perfected a technique of careful and patient approach. My goal is to allow animals to gradually become familiar with the drone’s presence, enabling surprisingly close interactions without disturbing their natural behavior. This skill has allowed me to capture unique perspectives, getting close to animals without causing discomfort to the different species I’ve filmed.
In the exhibition “Heartbeats of the Arctic - A Bird’s Eye View,” I aim to show how, with the responsible use of these tools, it is possible to capture images of animals in their habitat that would otherwise be nearly impossible, due to the danger or complexity of human interaction in their environment.
All the photographs in this exhibition were taken with a drone, in some cases operated from several kilometers away and just centimeters from the ground, achieving a perspective similar to that of a ground-based camera. In other instances, I take advantage of the drones’ versatility to capture unique frames in the icy landscapes of the Arctic, offering a different view of this ecosystem and its wildlife.
Through this photographic exhibition, I hope to transport you to the majestic landscapes of the Arctic, where its wildlife is endangered as its habitat shrinks due to climate change and the resulting ice melt. I also aim to foster a deep connection with the heartbeat that still resonates in every corner of this wild environment.
The image captures a serene moment in nature where a water buffalo is partially submerged in a body of water, with two birds perched on it.
An Intermediate egret stands gracefully on the buffalo\'s head, its long neck elegantly curved downward, possibly looking for insects or small prey.
A Pond Heron is perched on the buffalo’s curved horn.
The water reflects warm golden hues, likely from the setting or rising sun, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
This image beautifully illustrates a symbiotic relationship in nature, where birds benefit by feeding on parasites from the buffalo, while the buffalo enjoy some relief from pests.
Every Year a bait ball of sardines reunited at magdalena bay and a blue marlins, sea lion, mahi mahi (Dorado) and even whales try to feed themselves on the middle of the ocean. I was able to capture the protagonist of this amazing underwater show of wildlife.
\"In the heart of the nest, a young grey heron looks curiously into the photographer\'s eyes. This moment captures the intimate and fragile connection between man and nature, revealing the vulnerability and innocence of wildlife at the beginning of its journey. A rare and precious encounter, immortalized in a shot that celebrates the wonder of the kingdom.\"
This captivating image features a small transparent fish with luminous eyes and a jellyfish encounter at night. The ghosts appearance of both creatures, combined with the stark contrast against the dark background, creates a surreal and ethereal underwater scene.
Rows of king penguins gracefully navigate through the churning waters of Fortuna Bay , South Georgia, another important site for king penguin conservation. While it is not as large as St. Andrews Bay, Fortuna Bay still hosts a significant colony of king penguins, making it an essential area for the species’ conservation efforts. This remarkable location hosts thousands of king penguins, making it a critical site for the species\' conservation. The bay provides a relatively safe and rich environment for breeding and feeding, with abundant marine resources nearby.
This young leopardess was encountered during a visit to yala national park (block 5) last year. We were closely observing her for more than half an hour during the noon. She climbed up to this tree trying to catch a group of grey langur monkeys who were there on the top. Hunt was failed and she went empty handed. While she was in action, I was able to capture her in flight and it was against the light
Exciting to watch a little fight between these two cute little grey heron brothers. I have witnessed their growth by documenting all their growth stages.
Hugs
Two polar bears bond in the middle of their sparring in Churchill, Canada while they wait for Hudson bay to freeze.
On my visit to Churchill this year, I saw many bears around town. It\'s always a great experience watching polar bears bond. On this day, I watched these two bears spar and bond during a snow fall.
The scene depicted here is part of a courtship display between a male and female kingfisher. During courtship, the male actively chases the female, and they engage in aerial duels and interactions.
"Fishermen" captures the relentless determination and skill of puffins as they dive into the sea, emerging with beaks full of shimmering fish. This series showcases the raw beauty of their hunting instincts, frozen in time against the backdrop of rugged coastal cliffs and churning waves. Each image highlights the delicate balance between grace and efficiency, as these seabirds navigate the elements with remarkable precision. The interplay of motion, water droplets, and vibrant plumage brings an intimate glimpse into their daily struggle for survival.
This captivating photograph showcases a glossy ibis standing in shallow water, elegantly tilting its head back as droplets cascade from its long, curved beak. The bird's iridescent feathers shimmer in hues of deep red, bronze, and emerald green, reflecting the sunlight. Its slender, blueish-gray legs contrast beautifully with the golden tones of the water and blurred background. The scene captures a perfect moment of nature’s grace, highlighting the ibis’s unique feeding behavior and striking plumage. The soft, defocused backdrop emphasizes the bird as the focal point, creating a stunning wildlife portrait.
Пингвины были сняты на островах Южной Георгии. Самое поразительное это как родители ищут своих потомков среди тысяч подобных. Кормят только своих детенышей, чужих же отгоняют, еще и трепку могут задать.
When the land locked Kokanee salmon spawn they turn a deep bright red. They live for only a few days after spawning but the migrating osprey get the timing right and flock to the lake for this tasty snack. I sit on the rocks at the edge of the lake and have found that hand-holding is the best way to follow the osprey and capture the image.
This image is clicked in Corbett National Park, India. We were tracking a Tigress and her cubs for few days. One of the days mother made a kill and Tigress and her 3 cubs finished the Deer and they were walking back to a different part of the park. One of the cubs found this langur baby and catches the same and walks across the river with her kill. This cub is found to be very possessive about her kill and had no intention to share with Siblings
Emerging from the dense forest, a red stag peers through a natural curtain of branches and leaves, gazing directly into the lens with an air of unwavering confidence. Its impressive antlers, marked by the traces of past battles, symbolize strength and experience. Captured in the mysterious light of the park, this moment encapsulates the raw elegance and dominance of the forest’s ruler.
This series captures the vibrant and social lives of Gentoo Penguins amidst the icy wilderness of Antarctica. At their bustling rookeries, these endearing creatures come together in large colonies, creating a spectacular visual of unity and life. Some photos highlight their daring dives into the frigid waters, a display of their agility and resilience. Others focus on nurturing mothers standing guard over their newborn chicks, embodying devotion and care in the harsh Antarctic climate. Each image in this collection reveals a unique facet of their lives, celebrating their adaptability and communal spirit. These photographs aim to bring viewers closer to the heartwarming and remarkable world of Gentoo Penguins, a testament to the wonders of life in the polar extremes.
The Topi pride lioness, with her 2-month-old cub, stands guard while locking eyes with the photographer. Meanwhile, the playful cub enjoys precious moments with mom. Nature’s beauty at its finest!
– Рейтинг фотографов по странам и городам строится на основе 3-х лучших фотографий автора и их относительной позиции в каждой отдельной номинации. Рейтинг в номинации "Мобильная фотография" учитывается в меньшей степени для формирования рейтинга. В списке по странам и городам показывается одна фотография автора с лучшим рейтингом.
– В списке опубликованы только работы которые прошли 2-й этап голосования.
– В рейтинге лучших фотографий учитывается только одна — самая сильная — работа от каждого автора. Даже если у фотографа опубликовано несколько работ, в расчёте позиции используется только одна, с наившим рейтингом. Поэтому порядок фотографий в списке может не совпадать с итоговым положением автора в рейтинге.
– The rating of photographers by countries and cities is based on the three best photos of the author and their relative position in each separate nomination. Rating in the nomination "Mobile Photography" is taken into account to a lesser extent for rating formation. The list by country and city shows one photo of the author with the best rating.
– Only those photos have been published in the list that passed the second stage of voting.
– Only one strongest photo from each author is counted in the Best Photos ranking. Even if a photographer has several published works, only the highest-rated one is used to calculate their ranking position. As a result, the order of photos in the list may not match the author's final ranking position.
