Jack Murden
September's photo competition theme was 'Tranquil moments'. As the seasons begin to change, it can be a great opportunity to slow down and mindfully appreciate the natural world as it transforms around us.
Thank you to everyone who took part this month; your photos wonderfully captured the sense of peace and tranquillity that being out in nature can bring. Read on to see the winning images...
This month's winner, chosen via public vote, is Jack Murden. Congratulations!
Jack's winning photo, 'Golden Ghost', can be seen below.
Jack Murden
Jack captured this atmospheric photo of a barn owl in flight at Lunt Meadows, which is a great place to spot these silent hunters. Jack described how his patience paid off in getting this shot:
Barn owls have evaded me and my camera for what feels like years. So you can imagine my delight when, after spending an hour or so waiting on the river embankment at Lunt Meadows, this individual came floating over the reeds, backlit by beautiful light. It was a wonderful experience, the peace only broken by the clack clack clack of my shutter firing!
Our voters loved this image, with comments including:
"A beautiful image that speaks of calm and tranquillity in beautiful light."
"I have chosen this as it is a stunning photo and captured the flight of the owl perfectly."
"Capturing the owl mid-flight creates a magical photo."
Your runner up this month was Mike Owen, who took this beautiful photo of a sunlit woodland path at Mere Sands Wood.
Mike Owen
Mike described the important role that nature and photography can play when it comes to supporting his sense of wellbeing:
"I love photographing paths that disappear into the distance, especially with open gates, it's like they are inviting us to go through the gate and explore where the path leads. The setting sun adds to the intrigue and beauty. Nature nurtured my recovery from my mental illness and capturing it through photography helps top up my psychological fitness."
Our voters loved the 'peaceful' and 'inviting' atmosphere of this photo, commenting:
"...totally epitomises all my memories of my Lancashire childhood, and my wanderings in my old age! Timeless Lancashire!"
"A wonderful picture, great expression, plenty of country life. Wonderful colours. Makes you want to be there sharing the in the moment."
"Beautiful - I’d love to step into the scene now."
Congratulations Mike!
Let us know what you think about the voters' selections via our Facebook page, and keep an eye out for next month's crop of entries which will be shared on our social media pages, ready for you to vote for your favourite.
