The 1839 Awards celebrate photographers who use the medium as a form of creative expression. The platform brings together artists from all over the world, all exploring photography as a way to tell stories, capture emotion, and see the world differently. The awards take their name from the year photography was first made widely available to the public.
How Wildlife Photography Influences Conservation Awareness
Photography acts as a catalyst for conservation. Images of animals like the Australian sea lion or the Dugong provide a look at these creatures in their natural state.
The 1839 Awards take their name from the year photography was first made widely available to the public.
What Defines Modern Wildlife Imagery Trends?
Award-winning contributors, such as those featured in the Color Photography Contest, often utilize long-lens equipment—some reaching 400-800mm—to capture details. This approach is important in protected areas like Norway’s Hornoya island, where it is not allowed to disturb the birds.
The Shift Toward Macro and Behavioral Storytelling
Beyond traditional portraits, photographers are focusing on behavioral narratives. Recent winners have captured complex social dynamics, such as a mother cheetah preparing her youngsters to leave her and start their solitary lives or a striped marlin hunting in a bait ball.
When photographing wildlife, prioritize ethical distance.
How Technology Changes Animal Photography
Photographers capture animals in various environments. Contest participants have used motion blur and other techniques for subjects like disc dogs or hunting marlins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the 1839 Awards?
The organization celebrates photographers who use the medium as a form of creative expression.
Are professional photographers required to follow specific ethics?
In protected areas like Hornoya, Norway, you can only visit under supervision and it is not allowed to disturb the birds.
How can I improve my own animal photography?
Focus on the subject and its behavior.
Have you captured a wildlife moment that tells a story? Join the conversation by sharing your experiences in the comments below, or visit the 1839 Awards website to view the full gallery of this year’s winning imagery.
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