This category includes all monochrome photography including black and white, sepia-toned and infrared photographs. Entries must otherwise qualify for any of the other sections.
Winner
Flight of Fantasy
Natalie Murray, Queensland
This slow-shutter panning shot was taken one morning at my local suburban wetland, where one bird would suddenly chase another, possibly in a territorial dispute. The motion blur trades clarity for a creative sense of movement and energy. This technique results in many failed attempts before capturing a keeper.
Judges' Comments
It is incredible to see such sharp detail in the spoonbill’s face alongside the angelic grace of the body’s motion. Seeing the full range of movement in the curve of the wing is beautiful. The photographer has shown true mastery in using monochrome to simplify this image to perfection.
Runner-Up
Edith Falls
Yan Zhang, New South Wales
Edith Falls is a small waterfall that often goes unnoticed. After days of heavy rain, I had a feeling the scene might be different. I discovered a striking change: thick foam swirling through the creek, formed by the churning pool beneath the falls. I produced this dramatic foreground effect using a time-lapse approach.
Judges' Comments
Wonderful to see the photographer thinking outside the square and taking risks to capture this magical image. The time-lapse has created a beautiful contrast between the soft waterfall and the dynamic energy of the foreground. Expertly done.