Bearded Tit Jalal Khan aspect ratio 1200 600

Nature in Focus: APEM Group’s Picture of the Year 2023 Winners Revealed

Welcome to the grand reveal of APEM Group’s Picture of the Year 2023!

In the spirit of our cherished annual tradition, APEM Group once again united our talented staff in a fun contest that showcased the creativity and mastery behind the lens across the Group.

The results are nothing short of spectacular, presenting a captivating collection of photographs that vividly capture the essence of our Group, representing both our talent in environmental photography and passion for what we do.

This year, we received 88 entries, each one a testament to the diverse beauty of our environment, from the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District to the charming sight of seals basking on a sandy bank.

The selection process involved participation from our staff across the Group who cast their votes for their favourite photos. This led to the identification of 12 monthly winners, and the final decision was made by APEM Group’s CEO, Leah McGimpsey, who selected the top three winning entries. Selecting just one winner for the third-place spot proved challenging. In recognition of the impressive standard of submissions received, Leah decided to award two outstanding winners for third place.

And the Winners Are…

FIRST PLACE: Bearded Tit by Jalal Khan, Ornithology Consultant

Bearded Tit Jalal Khan

 

Leah’s thoughts:Seeing the Bearded Tit in its natural habitat, and with such clarity in photography, made it the standout entrant in the POTY competition this year. The close-up detail and focus of the photo are exceptional, with the background perfectly blurred to highlight the star of the show. An exceptional piece of photography.

SECOND PLACE: Two Grey Seals by Callum Nightingale, Marine Scientist

Grey seal Callum Nightingale

 

Leah’s thoughts:This photo naturally brought a smile to my face seeing the animations of the seals as they play flight on the shores. It really captures the moment, and the clarity of the seals and sand that covers them is impressive.

JOINT THIRD PLACE: Puffin on Skomer by Freddie Leith, GoBe Consultant 

Freddie Leith Puffin on Skomer July 2023

 

Leah’s thoughts:This image stood out to me due to the timely capturing of the Puffin with mealtime in tow. The colours in the photo are striking and the detailed close up of bird and fish impressive to see.

JOINT THIRD PLACE: Manta Alfredi by Henry Gould, Marine Wildlife Analyst 

Henry Gould October 2023 Manta alfredi

 

Leah’s thoughts:This image of the manta was immediately eye catching! To catch up front on and with such detail whilst underwater – very remarkable and unique.

Monthly Showcases

In addition to the top three winners, we have eight more outstanding entries that will be showcased monthly on our social media platforms and marketing materials.

 

Seals sunbathing on sand bank by David Mullock, Aerial Survey Task Specialist Manager

David Mullock Seals sunbathing on sand bank

 

Little Owl by Jalal Khan, Ornithology Consultant

Little Owl Jalal Khan

 

Bala Woodland by Chloe Winterbottom, AST Data Scientist

bala Woodland Chloe Winterbottom

 

Loch Ossian Scotland by Neil Pollington, Head of Talent Acquisition

Loch Ossain Scotland

 

Dipper at Chee Dale by Jalal Khan, Ornithology Consultant

Dipper at Chee Dale by Jalal Khan

 

Laothoe populi, the poplar hawk-moth by Chloe Winterbottom, AST Data Scientist

Laothoe populi Chloe Winterbottom

 

Robin by Stephanie Morrison, GoBe Lead EIA Manager

Stephanie Morrison GoBe Robin

 

Peak District, Bedrock Cascade by Rob Harrison-Lacey, Associate Director Natural Capital

Rob Harrison Lacey July 2023 Peak District bedrock cascade

We look forward to showcasing the images throughout the year and for new entries to be submitted! Stay connected with us on LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Follow us on LinkedIn

 

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