Judge Comment:

“This is a spectacular image, capturing a moment that is by no means easy to achieve, even with a high FPS (frames per second) camera. Considering that most kingfishers nest in shaded areas such as tree hollows or under overhangs on banks, achieving a fast enough shutter speed in low light adds an extra layer of difficulty. Capturing an image like this requires immense patience while also being ready in a split second, as kingfishers are incredibly fast moving birds, blink and the moment is gone. It often means waiting long periods for the adults to return, all while maintaining enough distance to avoid disturbing the birds and their natural feeding behaviour.

The photographer has demonstrated exceptional timing, capturing the precise instant the adult kingfisher passes its prey to its chick, the chick’s head is extended and beak wide open in perfect anticipation. What makes this image particularly impressive is its incredible clarity, not only is the behaviour beautifully portrayed, but the detail is so sharp that the prey can be identified down to the exact species, a Chorus cicada (Amphipsalta zelandica). Adding to the sense of motion and realism are the fine droplets of water suspended mid air, subtly enhancing the energy and immediacy of the moment. Achieving this level of precision and clarity is an outstanding accomplishment in wildlife photography, even under the best lighting conditions.

The positioning of the wings, fully extended yet not obstructing any part of the bird, allows the viewer to appreciate the kingfisher in its entirety. This provides a rare and intimate view of one of our most striking native birds, from the vivid blue green tones along its back to the warm golden brown hues beneath its wings. The open wing position beautifully reveals the feather detail and texture.

In wildlife photography, there are often three key elements we look for in an image. The first is focus, where the subject must be sharp and well focused. Depth of field has been handled superbly, with the subject remaining tack sharp while the background melts away smoothly into a pleasing blur, free from distractions, which the photographer has achieved exceptionally well. The second element is composition and storytelling, and this image demonstrates both beautifully. The framing is clean and well balanced and free of distractions, with the kingfisher positioned perfectly to lead the viewer’s eye through the frame, creating a natural sense of movement. The interaction between the adult and chick adds a compelling narrative, drawing the viewer into a beautifully captured moment between parent and chick, a true connection.

The final element is exposure. This is listed last because modern cameras and editing software have advanced dramatically over the years, offering exceptional dynamic range and the ability to recover highlights and shadows in ways that were simply not possible in the past. The photographer has exposed this image exceptionally well, highlights are well controlled allowing us to see fine detail in the white feathers along the kingfishers neck, without clipping the highlights. The darker areas, including the beak and the shaded bark of the tree on the left side, maintain excellent detail. The exposure feels natural and is well balanced between subject and background. The soft, diffused lighting enhances every subtle texture and tone in the bird’s plumage without introducing harsh contrast or glare.

Overall, this is a beautifully composed and exceptionally well-timed image that captures the essence of spring life and one of nature’s most spectacular moments. It reflects the photographer’s patience, understanding of behaviour, and truly shows the photographers photographic skill. A truly outstanding image, the photographer should be immensely proud of this photo. “