Many of us have had a moment where an image has made us feel in awe of nature – whether it's in a David Attenborough documentary, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, or a weird video on social media. These images will have inspired some of us to step outside, explore wild places and (hopefully) transform into life-long nature-lovers.  

At GWT, we have our own answer to David Attenborough: our annual photography exhibition. Now in its 17^th year, we have built an incredible collection of photos kindly contributed by contestants showcasing Gloucestershire’s nature – featured on our website, social media and the Wildlife member’s magazine. 

With new entries rolling in, we spoke to winners from last year’s competition to hear why they love wildlife photography, how they took their winning shots and most importantly, to find out which GWT nature reserve is their favourite.

Gloucestershire’s gems

Photography can bring attention to details that are so easily missed, from tiny wildflowers on a forest floor to fungi growing in supermarket car parks. Jason Conway, mobile phone winner of last year’s species spotlight category, says that photography is “about looking, closely observing as you walk. There are hidden marvels to be found on the ground, under leaves, rocks and fallen branches. This is a great way to fall in love with the hidden world.” 

It also invites you to immerse yourself in nature, returning to the wild corners you love. Briony Appleby, overall winner of the mobile phone competition, took her magical sunset shot while on a walk during golden hour: “I stopped at a spot I often admire the view from and got a lucky shot at the right time!” 

It’s also about patience, sitting and waiting. Marc Freebrey, the camera winner of the urban wildlife category, took his lovely photo of an otter after getting to know its habits and returning to the same spot time and again. One day, having waited patiently for 20 minutes, he was “lucky to have the otter cooperate and rest up in the pipe.” 

Rob Whybrow won last year’s camera competition overall. After a whole day of birdwatching, he spotted a spoonbill and took refuge in a bird hide: “the sun was fairly low in the sky, behind the bird and I noticed it shining through its wings. I took a few shots of this and then there was a moment when it raised its wings and you could see its head and bill mirrored by a shadow in its wing, and I knew that this was THE ONE!” 

You don’t need to travel far to find wild places. Gloucestershire is home to worlds of creatures, fungi and plants. Locally, we have amazing habitats for endangered species such as otters, kingfishers, wild daffodils, various butterflies and more. 

You will find them not only on nature reserves, but in the corridors of nature across the county, including urban spaces. Our urban wildlife category in the competition is dedicated to representing the unsung heroes of this corner of nature.  

Photos to make a difference 

Most importantly, photography reminds us of what is at stake. Marc explains that “with the environment under growing pressure, I hope by capturing and sharing its beauty, more people will feel inspired to protect it - before it’s too late.” 

By sending in a photo, you can document what we have in Gloucestershire, communicate the natural wonders on our doorstep and inspire people to connect with the environmental movement.  

It can also boost your mental health. The process of taking photos is mindful, as Jason advises to “remember to take long slow breaths to steady your hands” and “find a quiet place and sit down for a while, let wildlife come to you.” 

“Go on a nature walk to one of the GWT reserves in spring/summer and just start to notice all the wildflowers and insects. It’s amazing what you see when you slow down and really look at the incredible detail in nature” Rob suggests.  

Meanwhile, Marc’s top tip is to “take photos of what you enjoy and make the most of being outside in nature – it’s wonderful medicine.” 

After entering last year’s competition, Briony felt inspired to set up her own nature photography group and a photography account on social media. She has continued to take photos, achieving runner-up in the Stow-on-the-Wold Town Council competition.  

Marc and Rob were also inspired to take part in further competitions. Marc’s work was Highly Commended in the Animal Portraits category in the British Wildlife Photography Awards last year, and Rob was shortlisted for the London Camera Exchange competition.  

Join in and take an active part in documenting Gloucestershire wildlife. As Rob says “Go for it! You don’t need expensive gear to make a start in nature and wildlife photography.” 

Whether you are documenting urban wildlife, a landscape or a specific plant, fungi or animal, we have a category for you.  

Submit your photo entries here before 31 July 2026.