Natural beauty competition for photographers

Natural beauty competition for photographers

16 September 2020

AMATEUR photographers, young and old, from across the district are invited to take part in Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty competition for 2020.

The Strangford Lough and Lecale, Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion Partnerships, which manage the district’s three AONBs, are asking local photographers to submit their digital photographs under the theme, ‘My Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’

Council chairwoman Laura Devlin says she is looking forward to seeing some wonderful photos. 

“We are blessed that we hold AONB status for three stunning locations within our district,” she said. “This fantastic amateur photography competition is a great way to showcase their beauty as well as the skills of our local amateur photographers.

“Whether you are in the Ring of Gullion, Mournes or Strangford and Lecale AONBs, the judges want to see your interpretation of ‘My Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ right from your doorstep.

“This could be your interpretation of the beauty of the countryside or a beautiful aspect of a creature that lives within it – or perhaps the first signs of spring or summer wildlife in your garden or local park. As long as your photographs capture the theme’s essence, then you’re in with a chance.”

She continued: “You don’t have to venture far to find wild birds to photograph – your back garden is a great place to start. Set up a bird feeder out of reach of cats and give local birds a few weeks to get used to it, placing food out regularly. 

“Alternatively, scope out nearby woodland or your local park. You could even try taking photos from your window if you are lucky enough to live in any of our AONBs.”

A first prize of £100 for over 14s and £25 for under 14s are up for grabs. It is hoped this will attract a large number of entrants and help the AONB teams to promote the importance of the areas’ heritage.

The top 13 entrants will also feature in the 2021 AONB calendar, which is always highly sought after. The closing date for the competition is Wednesday, September 30.

Teachers and parents are encouraged to get children out and about with their cameras before the deadline and entries should feature landscape photographs or wild or farm animals in a natural setting.

Pictures of pets, zoo animals or wildlife in captivity are not eligible and only photos taken in the AONBs will be accepted.

To find built, cultural or natural heritage inspiration, why not visit the three Landscape Partnerships’ websites at www.mournelive.com and www.strangfordlough.org.