The wildlife world crowned a new pioneer when Mikhail Korostelev of Russia secured the inaugural Wildlife Photographer of the Year title, the globe’s most esteemed event for nature imagery. This landmark win drew immediate acclaim from observers and experts alike, highlighting Korostelev’s ability to capture life in its raw, unguarded moments. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Speaking about the achievement, Korostelev compared the triumph to receiving an Oscar, underscoring the event’s significance within the photography community. The winner’s remarks reflected not just pride but a deep commitment to his craft, reinforced by the long hours and meticulous preparation that accompany this level of competition. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Organizers explained that the contest is hosted by the Natural History Museum in London, a setting that has become synonymous with top-tier wildlife storytelling. Participants typically curate a portfolio that showcases their strongest images, often reserving standout shots to reveal during the judging stage. This deliberate curatorial approach helps photographers present a coherent, high-impact narrative of animal behavior and habitat. (Source: Natural History Museum)
According to the official results, Korostelev’s underwater image titled “Hippo Nursery” earned the top honor in the Underwater category, distinguishing itself with composition, clarity, and a compelling moment of life beneath the surface. The frame captured a rarely observed scene with precision and emotion, attributes highly prized by judges. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Korostelev noted that the decisive frame carried a sense of inevitability in the moment of capture, believing the image would resonate strongly with audiences and jurors alike. The photographer described a surge of confidence, followed by careful planning to ensure the shot met the competition’s stringent standards for technical quality and storytelling depth. (Source: Natural History Museum)
In a separate frame of reference, French photographer Laurent Ballesta previously clinched the Wildlife Photographer of the Year title, marking a notable second win in a span of three years. Ballesta’s celebrated work featured a golden horseshoe crab and reflected his long-standing commitment to documenting marine ecosystems with vivid detail and ethical stewardship. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Beyond the prizes, the event serves as a platform for dialogue about conservation, science, and the evolving tools photographers use to illuminate natural wonders. Participants often travel to remote habitats, work with local researchers, and navigate unpredictable conditions to capture images that educate and inspire. The competition remains a beacon for emerging talents and seasoned veterans alike, inviting new perspectives on the planet’s most remarkable wildlife. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Meanwhile, researchers and science communicators emphasize that visual storytelling helps translate complex ecological data into accessible narratives. The intersection of art and science at Wildlife Photographer of the Year creates opportunities for audiences to understand habitat changes, species behavior, and the urgent need for preservation strategies across continents. (Source: Natural History Museum)
Overall, the event underscores how photographers combine technical mastery with patience and intuition. The winner’s journey—from scouting locations to waiting for the decisive moment—highlights the importance of preparation, ethical practice, and respect for wildlife. As the field continues to evolve with new gear and emerging platforms, the core goal remains unchanged: to capture truth in the wild and share it with people who care about the world beyond their doorstep. (Source: Natural History Museum)