Mammal Portraits -
Here we are looking for unique and interesting ways of capturing the essence of the many and varied mammals in the country. As tempting as it is to want to submit images of the big cats and other large game, please dont forget all the smaller ones like Meerkats and Porcupines. Composition, correct exposure and a sharp image is key to catching the eye of the judges!
Mammal Behaviour/Action -
Catching the action for any wildlife photographer bears it own challenges but certainly be on the look out for unique behaviour or an image that will bring attention to the viewer. Again, it need not be of something that is commonly found in the bush, the judges will also take into account the rareity of the species and the photographic challenge behind the image that our judges will recognise. Dont forget that night and flash photography images will definately take you up a notch not only in the challenge of photographing using flash but also because good night images are rare.
Bird Portrait -
The avian world comes in many shapes and forms. And there lies the challenge in looking for a different composition and flavour (dont eat them) on your approach to catching the essence of the subject. In Botswana, the birdlife is proflific and we think that it is important at this point to mention that your images need not have been taken in a Game Reserve or National Park, that indeed the image can well be taken in one's very own garden!
Bird Behaviour/ Action -
Botswana's unique wetlands and drylands offer the bird photographer a great deal of promise when it comes to capturing action and behaviour. Unique or little recorded behaviour will certainly help your image get recognition from the judges. They know well how hard it is to get a sharp image in this genre of wildlife photography!
Macro Lens Photography - All Species -
All things small. Yes - frogs, flowers, pods, insects - you name it, its out there and many photographers carry a macro lens to record just that! Composition and depth-of-field along with sharp focus make this catagory a challenging and interesting one. Here it is worth mentioning too that one should not be rushing out to catch small things to photograph in a box or terarium. Indeed all images for the competition may not be taken in captivity. Good luck!
Reptile and Insect Photography -
New Category. Due to the latest submissions to the competition and the fact that people are entering insects and reptiles, we have decided to add this category. The images can be of any reptiles or insects photographed in Botswana using any range of lens including macro lens.
Landscape Photography -
Botswana is a country of unique and raw beauty. Wherever one looks, the eye is often drawn to it. This genre of photography has many professionals who concentrate on only taking landscape images. In Botswana many images have wildlife in the frame but it does not have to be the main focus of attention but it will be considered a good thing! Our judges are looking for images that are uncommon in perspective and composition as well as correct exposure and sharp focus.
Black & White/ Monochrome -
Finally - this category allows for the creative juices to flow. There is almost no end to what can be achieved in this genre of photography. So get out there and spend some time thinking in black and white - you will be amazed what can be achieved here.
