Results

Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 attracted more than 51,000 entries from 18,033 applicants in 153 countries and regions. There was a 10 percent increase in application entries compared to the last event, which meant we received the highest number of entries in recent years. This year's contest also saw a jump in entries submitted via the Internet. 92 percent of all entries were submitted via the Internet for the 2008-2009 contest, compared to the last 2006-2007 contest at 72 percent. There was an especially strong enthusiasm for Nikon Photo Contest International this year due in part to the increase in entries from the younger generation. Submissions from younger photographers fueled a new rush of excitement. It was a joy to see what kind of photos people are taking all over the world and a pleasure to be able to select from such a robust collection of entries. This collection spanned a wide range of subjects capturing breathtaking scenery, fleeting expressions of animals, depictions of everyday people, and unapologetic documentary-style photos. With photos that exhibited such unique and powerful visions, it was an honor to feel the passions of photographers' through their images. During the selection process, I kept in mind how each applicant interpreted the contest’s theme "At the heart of the image" and how it was reflected in their entries. Keeping the contest's theme in mind during the selection process allowed me to rediscover the power of photography as a professional photographer. I was able to see that each photo held a unique emotion or expression. The Grand Prize winner was selected after many thoughtful discussions with my fellow judges. These discussions produced a general consensus that the image should stand the test of time and be remembered for generations to come. We selected a photograph of a young boy praying in a cave. This image captures the photographer's intended message clearly, leaving a strong emotive impact on its viewer. All other winning works also had their own unique appeal. It is with great pride and honor that I introduce the top prizes chosen for Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009. Mr. Yoshitaka Nakatani, Chief of Judges

Grand Prize Cave Of Hope Maung Maung Gyi (Myanmar) This picture presents a depth that is unshakable, no matter how many viewings. The use of light is beautiful and creates drama. Another aspect of drama in this photo is the setting of a natural cave set up as a temple. There were many photos in this contest that left a strong impact, but this photo was one of the few that will stand the test of time due to its quiet yet powerful nature and ability to instigate deep contemplation. -By Mr. Miyoshi This image displays a monk in his youth praying in a silent and spiritual setting. The combination of the subject and his surroundings allows the viewer to be overcome with pious thoughts. Although photos with similar subjects have been taken before, to capture what this particular image does is an impressive feat. This photo deserves the Grand Prize because it is effective in capturing the quiet calm of prayer and a sense of spirituality. -By Mr. Yamaguchi This photo has a very positive message. The light coming into the cave is very dramatic, and radiates a sense of hope. -By Ms. Hinterseer

NIKKOR 75th Anniversary Award At the heart of the Kaszuby forest Kacper Kowalski (Poland) Untracked territory from a unique angle, this photograph is a perfect example of the contest theme. -By Mr. Nomachi That such a place on earth exists is a true wonder. The mysterious imagery of this photo really drew me to this piece. I would really like to visit this place. -By Mr. Baloğlu The impact of seeing a "never-before-seen landscape," the distinct vision of the photographer evident in the elaborate details, and the unorthodox angle of the shot all gave this photograph a fresh, new element of surprise. -By Mr. Nakatani

1st Prize from Free subject category Quarrel Zsolt Kudich (Hungary) This photo displays picturesque beauty. It captures the split-second expressions of the two birds, and their tense confrontation. The composition is just right, with the tips of the spread-out wings cut off from the frame and the blurry, snowy surface. This is a beautiful photo, reminiscent of a Rimpa painting. -By Mr. Miyoshi The precise framing of this photograph beautifully depicts the strength in life. From the two birds framed as though they are a pair, to the smoke of the snow emanating from their talons, every aspect in the frame comes together to create a powerful image. This photo captures a moment full of impact. -By Mr. Yamaguchi

1st Prize from "My Planet" category Friends Peter Allinson (USA) With the effects of global warming, every living creature on this planet is being endangered. The photographer obviously has great love for this whale, taking this picture within the mammal’s comfortable environment. I love the expression on the whale, created by the superb angling of the shot – it makes the whale look as if it is smiling. It looks as if the whale is having a grand time here, and that makes me happy. -By Mr. Nakatani This photo raises environmental awareness not by elaborate explanations but with its unstaged portrayal of nature. It shows the photography’s power to convey important messages regardless of generation. -By Ms. Imaoka

The copyright of award winning photographs of Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 belongs to its photographers and is protected by law. The images can be viewed on your monitor for non-commercial and personal purposes, and should not be used otherwise. Images are not allowed to be modified, used for commercial purposes, or publicly displayed.