A Matter of Territory

I knew when I took the shot that I had something special. It wasn't technically perfect - backlit by hard sunlight and a being a white subject it was hard controlling the exposure. It took an hour of watching and waiting for the subjects in question to come closer to me whilst I waited on one knee, sinking in mud and engine oil on the outskirts of RSPB Arne - on the edge of Poole Harbour, Dorset, UK.

Was it worth it - I thought so. I loved the shot despite its flaws. I'd heard quite promising things from other people but being over critical of my own work I kept seeing the flaws.

What am I talking about? My shot, 'A Matter of Territory' taken last September. Two little egrets stalking and fighting one another over fishing rights.



Why am I now talking about a shot that was taken nearly 8 months ago? The answer: The Sony World Photography Awards 2009.

I mentioned in a previous blog entry on my website a few months ago that I had received a commendation in the Awards for one of my shots, but that I didn't know what shot had been commended. I've now been informed that 'A Matter of Territory' was the commended shot and has been published in the Sony World Photography Awards 2009 hardback Book.

I am so honored its not even real. Out of 35,000 photos, 600 photos (I think it was) were selected for commendation - the top 2%. Wow!

The book is only available directly from Sony WPA and orders are placed via email. I have no idea if the book will be available from Amazon or any bookstores yet but when I get my copy, (i'm ordered tonight - £50!) I'll post an update here on the photographers blog with details of the shot, where it is in the book and how big its been published etc.

Stay tuned...

Keep updated at my website - www.photography-prints.co.uk