Smithsonian’s Annual Photo Contest: Reader’s Choice Voting Underway
Vote for Your Favorite Nature Photo
Smithsonian magazine’s 6th Annual Photo Contest is in full swing, and voting is now open for the Reader’s Choice award. Among the finalists in the Natural World category is a stunning photograph by Dan Holland, capturing a Great Egret fishing in the shallow waters of Reelfoot Lake State Park in Tennessee.
This evocative image transports viewers to the tranquil beauty of the natural world. The Great Egret, a majestic bird with its distinctive white plumage, stands poised in the water, its keen eyes scanning for prey. The photographer’s skillful use of light and composition creates a sense of depth and movement, as if one can almost hear the splashing water and feel the anticipation of the hunt.
Behind the Lens: Dan Holland’s Natural Inspiration
Dan Holland, the photographer behind this captivating image, is an avid nature enthusiast and wildlife photographer. He captured this shot during a visit to Reelfoot Lake State Park in July 2007, patiently observing the Great Egret’s behavior until the perfect moment presented itself.
“I was drawn to the egret’s elegant movements and the way it interacted with its environment,” Holland said. “I wanted to capture the essence of that moment, the beauty and serenity of the natural world.”
Celebrating the Wonders of Nature
Smithsonian magazine’s Annual Photo Contest showcases the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world through the lens of talented photographers. This year’s finalists include stunning images of wildlife, landscapes, and natural phenomena, all vying for the prestigious Reader’s Choice award.
“We are thrilled to share these extraordinary photographs with our readers and give them a voice in selecting the winning image,” said Smithsonian magazine’s photo editor. “This contest is a testament to the power of photography to capture the wonders of nature and inspire us to appreciate its fragile beauty.”
How to Cast Your Vote
Voting for the Reader’s Choice award is now open and will continue until the contest deadline. To cast your vote, visit the Smithsonian magazine website and follow the instructions provided.
Tips for Taking Great Nature Photographs
If you’re inspired by Dan Holland’s winning image and want to try your hand at nature photography, here are a few tips to help you capture stunning shots of your own:
- Be patient and observant. Nature photography requires patience and the ability to observe your subjects closely. Take your time to find the perfect angle and composition, and wait for the right moment to capture the action.
- Learn about your subjects. Research the animals, plants, or landscapes you want to photograph to better understand their behavior and patterns. This will help you anticipate their movements and capture the most captivating shots.
- Use the right equipment. A good camera and lens are essential for capturing sharp, high-quality images. Consider investing in a telephoto lens to get closer to your subjects without disturbing them.
- Experiment with different settings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to achieve the desired效果.
Enter Our 7th Annual Photo Contest
If you have a passion for photography and a love for the natural world, we encourage you to enter our 7th Annual Photo Contest. Submit your best shots of nature, wildlife, and landscapes for a chance to win prizes and have your work featured in Smithsonian magazine.
Visit our website for more details and to submit your entries.
