Overall Winner: “Fractal Forest” by Ross Gudgeon, Western Australia
The 2025 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition celebrated its 22nd year by showcasing breathtaking images that reveal the delicate beauty of the natural world.
Western Australian photographer Ross Gudgeon won top honors with a mesmerizing macro shot of cauliflower soft coral, praised for its originality and use of advanced underwater technology. The contest featured a wide range of perspectives, including Etienne Littlefair’s acclaimed camera trap photo of a ghost bat in flight, offering rare insights into elusive wildlife. Other winning entries highlighted fragile ecosystems and endangered species, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation. Judged by Scott Portelli, David Stowe, and Jasmine Vink, the final selection of 11 images stands as both an artistic triumph and a compelling call to protect our planet’s biodiversity.
More: Australian Geographic, Instagram
Threatened Species Winner: “Red Dawn” by Etienne Littlefair, Northern Territory
Animals in Nature Winner: “PJ and Crabs” by Charles Davis, New South Wales
Aerial Winner: “Jabiru Leaf” by Charles Davis, New South Wales
Macro Winner: “Liftoff” by Talia Greis, New South Wales
Astrophotography Winner: “Oberon Kenobi” by Marley Butler, Western Australia
Our Impact Winner: “Skink in a Tight Spot” by Sara Corlis, New South Wales
Landscape Winner: “The Beast” by Darren Wassell, Queensland
Monochrome Winner: “Party Streamer” by Rachelle Mackintosh, New South Wales
Junior Winner: “Perched” by Isabella Rogers, 17 years old, South Australia
Portfolio Winner: “Sydney Cephalopod Portraits” by Peter McGee, New South Wales
