Wainwright Photographic Competition 2021
Congratulations to Ian Nelson and Ray Graham, Winner and Runner-up respectively, of the Society’s 2021 Photographic Competition
Once again, the entries were judged by Honorary Member Terry Abraham, who commented as follows:
Winner: Ian Nelson, Member No. 561 – Crooked Tree
This is an excellent image, wonderfully composed, that tells a story of Lakeland. From the shores of Derwentwater, we see Blencathra clagged-in on the horizon, reflecting how typical the weather can be in Cumbria. The gnarly tree tells a story of how nature battles the elements and determinedly survives amongst the fells. A moody photo, but nonetheless one which offers both the reality of Cumbrian weather and how, even on such days, beauty can be found anywhere if one looks.
Runner-up: Ray Graham, Member No. 2262 – Gowbarrow Fell to the East
A close runner-up, this photo nicely sums up my love for the fells in the most beautiful corner of England. I recognised this view right away as it’s one firmly printed in my mind from my time spent producing Life of a Mountain: Helvellyn. The squall descending into Martindale combined with that smidge of dramatic light in Boredale once again reflect typical Lakeland weather but, most of all, how the elements dance with the fells to bring a feast for the eyes.
The Society would like to thank the members who submitted entries and Terry Abraham, pictured here, for judging the competition. There’s a famous saying that ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’. I believe, however, that it’s the beauty around us that inspires the beholder. What I really love about the Wainwright Society Photographic Competition is seeing the variety of what people class as beautiful enough to stop and take a photo; from trees, to clouds to sunsets and sheep. Let’s face it, it’s all beautiful, isn’t it? Every photo received is a winner in itself, because it showcases just what nature has to offer. This year’s entries certainly enabled me to see the beauty that others see in a way I may not have done or even appreciated before …so thank you to all who gave that to me.