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THE SCOTTISH LANDSCAPEPHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEARCOLLECTION 3 - EBOOK EDITION

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The Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year Collection III Ebook

© Stuart Low 2017 © The Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year © Copyright Breeze Media Ltd

Edited and designed by Stuart Low

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, by photocopying or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage or retrieval systems, without permission in writing from both the copyright owner and the publisher of this book.

Published by Breeze Media Ltd

The contents of this book are believed to be correct at the time of publishing. No responsibility is accepted by the author, publisher, producer or printer for any errors or omissions or infringement of copyright or otherwise, arising from the contents of this publication.

All photographs in this book have been reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographers concerned and all caption information has been supplied by the photographers. Copyright of each image is retained by the respective photographers.

Every effort has been made to ensure that credits accurately comply with information supplied. Nevertheless, the publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in the details supplied.

A hardback version of this book is available to buy at https://www.slpoty.com

Katrina Brayshaw (Commended in the Seascape Category)

Across the Dunes Sellebost Beach, Isle of Harris

It was late afternoon when this long line of cloud attracted me to the sand dunes. An added bonus was the side lighting producing interesting grass shadows across the soft sand.

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

JUDGES

SPONSORS

FOREWORD BY DAVID STAMP, CEO FORMATT HITECH

COMMENT BY STUART LOW, COMPETITION FOUNDER

OVERALL WINNER

LANDSCAPE CATEGORY

IOHD - HEBRIDEAN LIGHT AWARD

HES AWARD SNH AWARD

SEASCAPE CATEGORY

SPIRIT OF THE SEA AWARD

URBAN CATEGORY

YOUR VISION AWARD

YOUTH WINNER

JOHN MUIR TRUST - WILD PLACES PRIZES

THE FOUR SEASONS AWARDS

FINALISTS

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Eunice Clarke

“Natural Frame” - Glen Sannox, Isle of Arran

Commended in the Landscape Category

I had been walking in this Glen the previous day and saw this potential shot. The following morning the light was perfect, hitting the trees to make a natural frame for the landscape behind.

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INTRODUCTION

THE COMPETITION

The Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year Competition is the brainchild of landscape photographer, Stuart Low. The competition acts as a platform to showcase the Scottish landscape, coastal and urban views in all their glory. The competition aims to promote the talented photographers who capture such views by raising their profiles though this book, the eBook and the exhibitions that accompany the competition. The competition aims to inspire photographers of all levels to take part in landscape photography and explore the diverse locations that Scotland has to offer the landscape photographer. Promoting tourism, conservation, appreciation of our culture, our natural heritage and history are key aims.

THE CATEGORIES

The Overall Title - Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year Based on a portfolio of a minimum of 3 images and awarded to the photographer who in the opinion of the judges has demonstrated excellence in photographic skills whilst capturing the beauty of the Scottish landscape, coasts or urban views.

Landscape Category

For images of classic landscapes, such as panoramas, mountains, glens, lochs or inland views of the Scottish mainland & islands. Awarded to the single best image in this class.

Seascape Category

For images of the Scottish coast, islands or estuaries. Awarded to the single best image in this class.

Urban Category

For images of the Scottish towns and cities or urban areas. Awarded to the single best image in this class.

Youth Category

Open category of land, sea or urban for photographers 17 years and under. Awarded to the single best image in this class.

The Four Seasons Awards For images of the four seasons. It consists of an award for each of the best single images of Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn. The image depicting each season can be of any location in a landscape, seascape or urban view. Some additional commended images from this category are showcased in this book.

The Caledonian MacBrayne Spirit of the Sea Award

The Spirit of the Sea award is a sponsored award. For images that represent a coastal view of the west of Scotland area in which the Caledonian MacBrayne ferries operate. Awarded to the single best image in this class.

Loxley Colour - Your Vision Award

The Your Vision Award - new for 2016 and sponsored by Loxley Colour, the UK’s premier photographic solutions company. This award has been introduced to showcase the creativity and vision of the photographer.. Their vision may be as abstract, or as creative as the photographer chooses.

Isle of Harris Distillery - Hebridean Light Award

The IOHD Hebridean Light Award is a sponsored award for the best image capturing the essence and character of the Hebridean Islands. Scotland’s Protected Places

A special sponsored award category (two prizes) for the best image of Scotland’s Protected Places and the best image of a National Scenic Area. Sponsored by Historic Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage, this award has been put together to encourage photographers to discover these new places, to explore and capture them through their lenses.

The John Muir Trust - Wild Places Prizes

The Wild Places Prize is a special sponsored award category with 10 individual prizes being awarded to the 10 best images of Scotland’s wild places. The 10 winners receive a prize of a one year membership to the John Muir Trust, a place in a separate exhibition and a feature in the John Muir Trust Journal.

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JUDGES

STUART LOW

Stuart is founder and head judge of the competition. Based in Fife, Scotland and with over 30 years experience, he is a respected landscape photographer in his own right, boasting a portfolio of work spanning the four corners of the globe. Stuart is a highly regarded instructor, teaching workshops across Scotland as well as running international tours. Stuart’s knowledge of the Scottish landscape is unsurpassed, and he spends the majority of his spare time seeking out unseen views, many of which have since become iconic shots. As well as being a master film photographer, he is a highly skilled digital photographer having developed software for digital cameras to create specific looks. MARK YOUNG

Mark Young is owner and managing Director of Academy Class, the UK’s premier Adobe Training centre. Academy Class provide expert training services and courses leading to certification on Adobe’s products. Mark provides expertise in all aspects of Photoshop and Lightroom and post processing work in the competition judging process.

LORNE GILL

Lorne has been a professional environmental photographer for over twenty years; firstly with the Countryside Commission for Scotland and latterly with Scottish Natural Heritage, he presently works within their Publishing Unit at Battleby near Perth. He has been a category winner and five times commended in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition and in 2009 won the urban wildlife category in the British Wildlife Photography Awards. He also had a highly commended landscape image in the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

TOBY HERLINGER

Toby Herlinger is sales and marketing director of our sponsors, Fotospeed. Inspired by image makers around the world, Fotospeed began life manufacturing quality darkroom chemistry and specialist fine art printmaking processes. With 35 years of technical experience and as the world of traditional darkroom made way for the digital revolution, Fotospeed utilised its wealth of expertise and understanding of image making to engineer and develop a comprehensive range of exceptional digital inkjet papers, inks and accessories. Toby brings his expertise to the judging of this years competition.

CRAIG AITCHISON

Living and working in Glasgow, Craig is naturally drawn towards the wilderness of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. This extraordinarily varied environment combined with the notoriously unpredictable weather is the magic he seeks to transform his images into something exceptional. Craig is very much about capturing the landscape as authentically as possible. His vast knowledge of the landscape, particularly of the islands and highland mountain ranges and his expertise in fieldcraft was invaluable in helping us choose this years winners.

DAVID STAMP

David Stamp is CEO of our sponsors, Formatt Hitech, the World’s Leading Manufacturer of Professional Quality Filters For Photography, Cinematography and Broadcast. David travels the world widely through the company, working and sponsoring some of the worlds top photographers. His knowledge of photography coupled with that of filtration and the part it plays in photography is an invaluable asset in judging the competition.

OLIVER ATWELL

Oliver joined Amateur Photographer Magazine in 2011 and is now the senior features writer, where he interviews a variety of photographers, both professional and amateur. He also coordinates the annual Amateur Photographer of the Year competition, and writes the book reviews. He has written a variety of articles for publications and websites, including Photomonitor and Vice Magazine. Before joining AP he studied film, photography and journalism. He has also produced photographic work for various theatre companies, both in England and Wales. His work has been on show in Cardiff and London.

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SPONSORS

WITH THANKS TO

FotospeedPROFESSIONAL INKJET MEDIA & INKS

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FOREWORD

Scotland is a land of breathtaking scenery, diverse places and locations steeped

in history. There are rugged mountains, a myriad of islands both large and small

and a coastline of over 10,000 miles to explore. Its geology has been forged

over time, boasting sweeping glens and deep lochs that have been sculpted by

ancient glaciers. From the pastoral expanses of the Scottish Borders to the

rugged moors and mountains of the highlands, it’s no surprise that people come

from across the globe to witness its natural beauty and marvel at our spectacular

landscapes.

For those who have already experienced the beauty of the Scottish Landscape

for themselves, the images in this book will provide many new perspectives on

those iconic views that we have come to love. For those discovering it for the

first time, this book will show off the breathtaking beauty of those places along

with the diversity of our culture, our history and our natural heritage.

I am sure you will agree that the images showcased by the talented photographers

in this book truly reflect the breathtaking beauty and diversity this amazing

country – from our sweeping vistas to our historic towns and cities there’s a

stunning view at every turn of the page.

It is immensely rewarding to view the work of such talented photographers pre-

sented in this diverse collection of eye-catching photographs and I hope it will

inspire many more people to visit these places for themselves and encourage

them to capture their own views.

David Stamp, CEO, Formatt Hitech

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COMMENT

By competition founder, Stuart Low

When I sat down at my desk to write this, it suddenly hit me…this is the

THIRD book! And that fills me with immense pride, because looking back 5

years ago, there was a point where I thought this competition would never got

off the ground.

You see, I’m not a “brand name” photographer and I’d never put a national

photography competition together before, so when I set out with my cap

in hand in search of sponsors, I shouldn’t have been surprised when the

proverbial doors were slammed in my face at every door I knocked. But I

learned from those rejections, and after a lot of major tweaks, my perseverance

paid off, securing sponsorship from Academy Class and Formatt Hitech, and

the competition was born!

Now in it’s third year, it has grown further, and it builds upon the runaway

success of the inaugural and second competitions. We have the continued

sponsorship from Academy Class, Formatt HiTech and Fotospeed as well as

continued support from Scottish Natural Heritage, Historic Environment

Scotland, The John Muir Trust and Caledonian MacBrayne. The success of

the competition has also attracted new sponsorship from Loxley Colour and

The Isle of Harris Distillery, with their respective awards - Your Vision and

Hebridean Light Awards. And for the first time a major coup - our winners

are revealed in Amateur Photographer Magazine, the world’s number one

photography weekly! So the competition has gone from strength to strength.

The reasons I put this competition together were; to showcase Scotland’s

amazing landscapes, promote talent wherever that may be, do something

for tourism and to break the mould with the introduction of an unbiased

judging system. These aims are being achieved as the competition grows,

and we will strive to improve upon them as we move forward, but it is the

judging system I’d like to give a special mention here. Since the introduction and

advancement of digital cameras, we’ve seen more people from all walks of life

take up photography than ever before, and that has been good for photography.

But…as far as I can see, many photography competitions haven’t moved on

at all. They are still judged by the “establishment” and there has never been a

female winner. That’s not good for photography in my view, because no image

should be favoured more or less because of gender.

This competition’s judging system uses a triple blind system, which means that

each image is judged “anonymously” through each stage of the competition.

None of the judges ever see the name of who took the photograph and that

means all images are judged fairly. And it works, because this year we have two

female winners in the Seascape and Urban categories.

As with previous years, it has been a privilege and immensely enjoyable putting

this collection together. My thanks go out to the sponsors and the judges for

whom the competition would not be possible, and each and every one of those

amazing photographers who entered, were short listed, commended and won

awards - for this is their book.

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THE SCOTTISH LANDSCAPEPHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

PORTFOLIOS

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THE SCOTTISH LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

2016

OVERALL WINNER

CHRIS SWAN

WindblownLuskentyre, Harris

Late evening sunshine on the pristine dunes and beach at Luskentyre

Fuji XT-1, Fujinon XF 14mm, 10 Stop Filter

(1 of 3)

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Christopher Swan

Stormlight (2 of 3)Bagh Steinigidh, Harris

Storm clouds and wild waves lit by the setting sun on the west coast of Harris.

Fuji XT-1, Fujinon XF 14mm.

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Christopher Swan

Yesnaby Castle (3 of 3)Yesnaby, Orkney

The impossible looking stack of Yesnaby Castle buffeted by the North Atlantic sea.

Fuji XT-1, Fujinon XF 14mm, 10 Stop Filter.

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Ann M Holmes

Painted erratics (1 of 3)Elgol, Skye

Rain squall and a moment of theatrical light illuminate the yellow lichen and morphological textures of a collection of erratic boulders on the shore of Loch Scavaig, Elgol, Skye.

Highly Commended

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Ann M Holmes

Marching into the light (2 of 3)Callanish, Lewis

Winter dawn light melts the frost and shortens the shadows of Callanish I, a cruciform shaped collection of Neolithic standing stones, Lewis.

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Ann M Holmes

Z at dusk, after the rain had gone… (3 of 3)Lealte, Skye

A winding burn threads across moorland from the Trotternish mountains illuminated shortly after rain by dusk’s soft orange glow, Lealte, Skye, Scotland

Sven Soell Highly Commended

Children of the Mountain ( right 1 of 3)Beinn a’Chearcaill, Torridon

The scattered rocks on the summit area bath-ing in the evening sun.

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Sven Soell

The Hidden Abyss (2 of 3)A’Mhaighdean, Torridon

The Abyss with the dark waters of Gorm Loch Mor below.

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Sven Soell

Three Points of Solitude (3 of 3)Beinn Damph, Torridon

The wintry landscape as seen from Beinn Damph providing quiet time for solitude and contemplation.

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Adam Burton (commended)

The Light Fantastic (1 of 2)The Quiraing, Isle of Skye

Although extremely fleeting this beautiful rich light at the Quiraing was absolutely breathtaking, the best conditions any landscape photographer could ever wish for.

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Adam Burton

Old Man of Storr (right - 2 of 2) Isle of Skye

Every trip up to the Old Man of Storr is memorable, but this particular visit was absolutely unforgettable. A passing hail storm had left the mountainside sugar coated, giving the dramatic location a spectacular wintry look.

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Damian Shields

Loch Chon, The Trossachs (1 of 3)

I glimpsed this view driving through the Trossachs and had to pull over. The little isle and layers of mist through the treeline gifted me a memorable scene of the serene waters of Loch Chon.

Highly Commended

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Damian Shields

Loch Coruisk and the Cuillin (2 of 3)Isle of Skye

I ascended the lower slopes of Sgurr na Stri for this shot. A wonderfully moody sky over the Cuillin ridge provided the perfect backdrop to the dark and wind-blown surface of Loch Coruisk.

Damian Shields

Meall na Cuilce (3 of 3)Isle of Skye

As ever with visits to Skye, I was enjoying the conditions changing with each moment, and I loved this patch of light as it began to slowly rise up and across the slope of Meall na Cuilce.

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Tomasz Szatewicz

‘Painted by light’ Glen Shiel, Highland, Scotland (1 of 2)

On a crisp winter day morning sun broke through the clouds and lit snow-covered mountains of Glen Shiel creating fascinating play of light and shade.

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Tomasz Szatewicz

‘Between’ (2 of 2)Loch Leven, Pap of Glen Coe & Bidean nam Bian, Highland

Between Winter and Spring, between rain and rainbow, between lake and mountains, between light and shade...

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Mark McColl

Against the mist (1 of 2)West Kilbride, Ayrshire

Shot just after sunset, there were incredible misty conditions that stretched across to Arran and Cumbrae. The mist didn’t quite reach up to the lone tree, which stands isolated against it, creating a really unique scene.

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Mark McColl

Winters day(2 of 2)Glencoe

Driving through Glencoe, I was struck by the play of light breaking through on parts of the mountain tops. For me this image encapsulates the beauty of this area in winter.

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Neil Barr

“Maelstrom” (1 of 2)

Allt a’ Chaorainh and Aonach Mòr above Alltchaorunn, Glen Etive - from the summit of Stob na Bròige on a very windy and freezing cold day.

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Neil Barr

“Bidean Nam Bian Sleeps (2 of 2)

Moon rising over Bidean Nam Bian from up near the summit of Meall Mòr at the foot of Glen Coe.

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Michael Prince

Kippen Muir Pines (1 of 2)Kippen, Stirling

A location close to home that I often visit with my camera. The low sun in the west highlights the huge amount of detail in the branches of these beautiful Scots pines.

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Michael Prince

Beinn Eighe, from Bealach na Gaoithe (2 of 2)Torridon, Highland

Late afternoon in October, and after a long and uneventful wait with overcast skies the setting sun eventually broke through under the cloud base, dramatically illuminating the slopes of a distant Beinn Eighe.

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Brian Kerr

The Blizzard (1 of 3)Near St Mary’s Loch, Cappercleuch , Scottish Borders

The weather forecast was for heavy snow over the Moffat hills, roads barely passable but the conditions allowed me to catch this group of Scots Pines with horizontal driving snow.

Commended

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Brian Kerr

Windswept (2 of 3)Clachtoll Bay, Sutherland

A wild afternoon on Clachtoll beach, I was hoping to catch the drama of the seas and skies, all matched with the softness of the movement in the grasses.

Brian Kerr

Frenchland Tower (3 of 3)Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway

The ruins of Frenchland Tower near Moffat, a frosty morning and a fresh layer of snow. Sunrise is caught behind an approaching snow shower.

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Sam Gregory

‘Last Goodbye’ (left - 1 of 2)Ullapool, Wester Ross

On the final morning of a November trip I passed through Ullapool and the light was simply staggering. It was the start of the most stimulating day of light and conditions I’ve ever enjoyed.

‘Perching Point’ (above - 2 of 2)Clachtoll, Sutherland

On a wild and windy day this was quite a bracing experience. Weighing down the tripod with everything I could find I made the exposure. The graphic nature of the rocks drew my attention originally.

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LANDSC APE C ATEGORY

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OVERALL WINNER

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Stuart LamontLagangarbh Cottage, Glencoe

It was a freezing cold morning and I was hoping for a bit of mist, I wasn’t disappointed, however it became surreal when the sun started to rise and light up the scene before me.

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RUNNER UP

Guy Richardson

Corrour BothyMar Lodge Estate, Cairngorms

Located beneath the Cairngorms highest peaks, Corrour Bothy sits as a refuge for hikers and climbers alike. Bothies are rudimentary shelters with no running water or electricity and are maintained by volunteers.

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THE ISLE OF HARRIS DISTILLERY - HEBRIDEAN LIGHT AWARD

Martin Watt

GuardianCalanais, Isle of Lewis

Although many of the Calanais stones have great features, this stone had an intriguing flowing texture. A long exposure felt perfect to soften the sky to balance the harsh stone.

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Craig McDearmid

Autumn Aurora over Stac Pollaidh Loch Lurgainn, Assynt

This beautiful display of the Northern lights was captured after a long drive to Assynt followed by an ascent of Stac Pollaidh (centre shot) under the stars on a clear and still Autumn night.

HIGHLY COMMENDED Winner of John Muir Trust Prize

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Joe Higney

Loch Ruskie mists, Loch Ruskie near Callander

Loch Ruskie just after sunrise in late September last year and after most of the colour had gone the mists started to clear giving the almost painterly look to the landscape.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

HIGHLY COMMENDED

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Stewart Smith

DissolvedLoch Maree

An early morning long exposure at Loch Maree, Slioch and its soft reflection separated by an intense rake of dawn sunlight.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

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Sebastian Kraus

Stricken IIAn Teallach

Lovely sunset above An Teallach in North of Scotland. Very nice rock formation and magical light over the clouds give you opportunity to capture something special.

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Kenny Lam

White Rainbow over Rannoch Moor

The rising sun burned away the early morning fog on Rannoch Moor leaving behind a brief but unforgettable series of fogbows. I was fortunate enough to capture one of these white rainbows over Lochan na h-Achlaise

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Christopher Marr

Wandering Star Buachaille Etive Mor, Glencoe

Extreme selfie! Twenty seconds isn’t long, especially when its dark and you need to jump over slippery freezing rocks. Worth it though

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Ron Dekker

Another worldCraig Varr, Kinloch Rannoch, Perthshire

The surviving trees on top of Craig Varr (±500m) with the Sleeping Giant in the background. You can just make out his head in the top righthand quadrant. It’s another world up there.

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Lee Irvine

Snow LinesCoire Cas, Cairngorm

Descending into a cloud filled Coire Cas, the late afternoon sun lit up the snow fence for this graphic black and white composition..

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Margaret Soraya

First snow, Loch NessBorlum Bay, Fort Augustus

This image was taken just after a snowstorm had cleared. The snow still lying fresh on the branches of the trees. Shot at Borlum bay, Fort Augustus, on the shores of Loch Ness.

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Alistair YoungCuillin Stormlight, Isle of Skye

Looking over the rocky summits of Garbh Bheinn and Sgurr nan Each to the Isle of Raasay from Blaven on the Isle of Skye as a storm blows in from the Atlantic.

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Jackie Matear

Between StormsGlencoe

There was a brief burst of sunlight on the Aonach Eagach ridge in between the heavy rain showers, which I captured from a hill on the other side of the valley.

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David Cole Glencoe in February Near the roadside on the A82, close to the Three Sisters

An image taken from the roadside travelling down the glen from The Kings House, heading towards Glencoe village, at a spot overlooked by the Three Sisters. The snow covered mountains were an inspiring sight.

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Dylan Nardini

CrookedCrookedstane Farm, Elvanfoot

This wonderful snaking farmers wall zigzags around this stubborn Caledonian Pine while guarding the open gate as sheep playfully run through in winter snow.

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Scott Robertson

Suilven from Stac PollaidhAssynt, Sutherland

Below Stac Pollaidh lies a loch strewn wilderness. The horizon broken only by the imposing peaks of Suilven and Quinag in the distance. The setting sun casts a warm hue of soft light over the landscape below.

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Tom White

Through the rainCoigach

The distinctive shape of Stac Pollaidh is seen through a heavy rainstorm.

Highly Commended

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Tracey Whitefoot

Foreboding SkyBy the A838 West from Lairg, Sutherland

I spotted this cottage just as the foreboding clouds broke and the sun came out, creating a dramatic stormy scene that lit the abandoned cottage beautifully.

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Verity E. Milligan

Achmore RainbowAchmore, Isle of Lewis

As I drove towards Harris, there was an obvious blanket of mist in the direction of Achmore. Soon a storm rolled in and as it passed over the landscape, a rainbow appeared, ascending from the mist into the cloud above.

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Winner

Historic Environment Scotland Award

Neil McDade

Kilchurn Castle shrouded in morning mist.Loch Awe, Argyll

Kilchurn castle covered in mist photographed on the banks of Loch Awe in Argyll early in the morning of late April 2016.

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Winner of the Scottish Natural Heritage Award Also awarded a John Muir Trust Prize

Dougie Cunningham

Sunrise over Buachaille Etive Mòr

The slopes of Beinn a’ Chrùlaiste are the perfect place to watch the sun rise over the “Great Shepherd of Etive, particularly when a perfect inversion has rolled in from the moor overnight.

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Seán Kerr

Red Roof (above) near Ardheslaig, looking over Loch Sheildaig

Red roofed cottage on the banks of Loch Sheildaig, Torridon, Scotland. A fleeting shaft of sunlight highlighted the autumn foliage under a dark and moody sky.

Dietmar Herzog

Black rain (right) Red Cuillins, Isle of Skye

The Red Cuillins mirrored in a pond near Torrin, Isle of Skye

Highly Commended

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Kevin Beck

Cloud Burst Beinn Dorain, Bridge of Orchy, Argyll and Bute

Heading north from Glasgow I stopped regularly to capture the dramatic skies. Whilst approaching Bridge of Orchy I witnessed this scene of hail and light as it moved across the mountainside

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Leslie Ashe

Fence in the reeds Isle of Harris

Posts and barbed wire fence almost hidden in a bed of reeds.

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Richard Hurst

Spotlight (above) Loch Cill Chriosd, Skye

The morning light beautifully picking out the trees beyond the Loch as it came up over the hills to greet us that morning.

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Ian Mountford

Cuillin Light Isle Of Skye

The low evening sun was dancing among the distant Cuillins, producing wonderful shadows between the mountains. Quite a magical sight.

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Annette Dahl

Caledonian Heart Loch Awe, near Ballimeanoch

To me the Caledonian Pine, represents the spirit of its homeland - proud, independent, rugged. Looking up this tree, the sight reminded me of a heart with its arteries - the ultimate symbol of life.

Highly Commended

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Waldemar Matusik

Misty Woods Bathgate - West Lothian

The woods are near my hometown, Bathgate. This was an exposure time of around 1.6 seconds. I used a longish shutter speed because the mist was moving from the left of my frame to the right, and I wanted it to cover the whole frame. With the shutter open longer, the mist swept across and lead the whole scene.

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Terry Gibbins

‘Brittle’ Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye

Taken from the foot of the Cullin hills that watch over the Fairy pools on a miserable afternoon

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David Shawe

Intertwined Rothiemurchus, Cairngorms

Following a dawn shoot at Loch an Eilein I explored the Caledonian pine forest by the north shore of the lochan. This revealed these intertwining patterns of tree trunks, gnarled roots and rocks.

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Adam Bulley

The house at the top of the hill Loch Tay

Driving towards Aberfeldy the light on the far bank of Loch Tay was beautiful. This cottage, surrounded by the vivid colours of Autumn, made an impression and seemed to tell it’s own story.

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Paul Webster

Big skies, Arkle Loch Stack, Sutherland

I can’t remember another evening with light as vivid as this, last May. At every turn the huge skies turned the scree-girt monoliths of Sutherland to magic.

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Gary Lockwood

Lone Pine, Glen Strathfarrar

On a trip down the quiet and beautiful Glen Strathfarrar on a cold, grey day, this ancient old pine stood out through the gloom.

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Rob Oliver

Amongst the dark stands… Gleann Meadal, Sleat, Isle of Skye

Three small silver birch trees stand in a small clearing surrounded by the brooding presence of a stand of lichen covered conifers.

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James Barlow

Suilven Assynt, North West Highlands

The late evening sun warms and illuminates the southern slopes of Suilven as rain clouds roll over the landscape.

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Kathy Medcalf

‘Castle Kilchurn Mist’ Kilchurn Castle, Loch Awe, Dalmally.

A beautiful morning at Kilchurn on Loch Awe. I watched as the mist rolled around the valley and down the loch, passing the castle and almost completely engulfing it.

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SEASC APE C ATEGORY

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SEASCAPE CATEGORY

OVERALL WINNER

Sarah Canton

Hebridean SunriseWest Coast Berneray, Outer Hebrides

I suddenly woke at 4am, looked out my campervan window, grabbed the camera gear and sprinted to the top of a sand dune to get this image. Another five minutes and the moment had gone.

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RUNNER UP

Brian Clark

Evening twilight at Crail HarbourCrail, Fife

This beautiful and historic harbour is one of Fife’s jewels. The image was made as dusk descended but before the attractive colour disappeared from the sky.

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Joe White

Luskentyre DuskLuskentyre, Isle of Harris

A brief glimpse of light as the tide retreats at the end of a cold spring day on the Outer Hebrides

HIGHLY COMMENDED

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Peter Paterson

Talmine BreakwaterTalmine Sutherland

Taken on a wild April Day

HIGHLY COMMENDED

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Ross Dickson

Beauty and the Barrels Bunnahabhainn Distillery, Islay

A picturesque first stop on a whisky weekend, with a rusting early autumnal landscape and metalwork, symmetrical stacked barrels frame Jura across the Sound of Islay.

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Iain MacDiarmid

Rainbow Stoer, Stoer Lighthouse As first light struck the lighthouse and a storm cloud with accompanying rainbow approached from the sea, I dashed up from the cliffs below to capture this dramatic weather scene.

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Pete Hyde

High tide at North Berwick tidal poolNorth Berwick, East Lothian

The tidal pool at Milsey Bay on an early December afternoon. The long exposure smoothed the water surface, as it lapped over the pool wall, and gave movement to the clouds.

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Esen Tunar

Symphony of NatureLuskentyre, Isle of Harris

A partial rainbow appears through the rain clouds above the sand dunes of Luskentyre on Isle of Harris on a dramatic winter morning.

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Alastair Ross

Quadrathon, South Harris (right)Grothadnais, South Harris

Out for a “quick” explore with my 9 year old son, we chanced upon this rock placed on three smaller rocks. Three hours later we got back to the campervan...

Phil Cooke

Breakwater at Dawn (left)St Monans.Fife

The breakwater at St Monans is very photogenic in the right conditions. I had planned my shot weeks before as a sunrise and high tide came together. A cold January morning was also perfect

98

Greg Whitton

Highly Commended

TendrilsHorgabost, Isle of Harris

As the outgoing tide ebbed and flowed, small rivulets formed tendrils in the sand, providing a sense that the sea was stretching beyond itself to reach you.

99

Tom Drysdale

Stormy SunriseSt Monans

The village of St Monans and its windmill taken from the harbour wall on a wild morning.

100

Melvin Nicholson

On The Edge, Neist Point LighthouseNeist Point, Isle of Skye

I am always looking for ways to capture iconic scenes in my own style and pushing the boundaries of composition is a must as in this scene here at Neist Point.

101

Jeanie Lazenby

Bagh SteinigidhScarista, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides

Frisky waves crashed against the rocks as the evening tide rose up the beach at Bagh Steingidh on the Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides.

Highly Commended

102

Simon Swales

Island LassPettycur Harbour, Fife

It had been raining heavily. The setting winter sun provided a dramatic backdrop for the huddle of boats at the far end of the pier. Within an hour they would be afloat on the incoming tide.

103

Chris Davis

Castle Stalker SunsetCastle Stalker , Appin

A silhouetted shot of castle stalker as the sun goes down behind some clouds & the sun’s rays & pink skies frame the castle beautifully .

104

105

Amy Robinson

Looking Down (left) Dun Scurrival, Barra, Outer Hebrides

Looking down over Traigh Eais beach, the Dun Scurrival hilltop in spring is covered with beautiful sea pinks, complimented by the Atlantic waves rolling onto the sands below.

Duncan Herring

Seilebost Sunset (right)Seilebost Beach, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides

Water running to the sea carves patterns in the Seilebost sand, as soft September light bathes the distant Harris hills.

106

Charly Schleder

Old shipwreckDiabaig, Torridon

An old shipwreck lies in the Bay of Diabaig at Loch Torridon. Diabaig is a remote village and the last light of the day adds some warm colours to the blue hour.

107

Paul Millar

On Sand Of Guarded lightRattray Head Lighthouse, Buchan, Aberdeenshire

An overnight drive to shoot such a historically listed Lighthouse. The tide and weather against me but as the sunrise approached came such a beautiful band of light, as I worked to show sense of distance.

108

Ashley Roy

Lady’s TowerElie, Fife

Lady’s Tower at the edge of Ruby Bay, Elie. After an hour of waiting in the bay, a few minutes of sunlight finally broke through the overcast sky to hit against the rocks and the tower.

109

Cameron McMurdo

Road From the Light, Point Of Ardnamurchan, Ardnamurchan

This is the road leaving the Ardnamurchan lighthouse looking south across the bay towards Braighlann.

110

THE CALEDONIAN MACBRAYNE - SPIRIT OF THE SEA AWARD

Allan MacFadyen

Oban, Gateway to the Isles Oban, Argyll & Bute

With McCaig’s Tower overlooking the bay and the constant hum of Caledonian MacBrayne’s ferries coming and going, Oban is the starting point for many an island adventure. On CalMac, getting there is half the fun!

111

112

113

URB AN C ATEGORY

114

URBAN CATEGORY

OVERALL WINNER

Gill Williamson

Sudden DownpourGlasgow

Sudden downpour in Glasgow while I was upstairs on the bus. Fascinated by the patterns the rain made on the window and the subsequent distortion of the scene in front of me.

115

116

URBAN CATEGORY

RUNNER UP

David Queenan

Cloud ConstructionSouth Queensferry

Construction of the new Queensferry Crossing towers shrouded by a thick fog.

117

118

Callum L Ollason

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Festival NightsCandlemaker Row, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Tattoo fireworks above Edinburgh Castle, seen through the Grassmarket from Candlemaker Row.

119

Andy Clark

The FogFalkland

Sat at the top of Falkland hill watching the sun rise over a blanket of fog. I ran halfway down the hill to see the village of Falkland appear from the fog.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

120

Adam Robertson

Wavy Blue. Leith Street, Edinburgh

Leading lines are a photographer’s dream which makes the Leith Street bridge an ideal spot for city centre photography. The real challenge was balancing the Balmoral Hotel into the composition. Subtlety was the key here.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

121

Shahbaz Majeed Welcome Home DundeeLooking north over the Tay Bridge towards the welcoming sight of Dundee just after Dusk

122

David Tomlins

Edinburgh TrafficFrom Nelson Monument, Calton Hill

Waited for the traffic to build up on Princes Street. After a few attempts I decided on a short exposure of 1.6 seconds to capture the traffic moving but not becoming a complete light blur.

123

Sarah Rose

Bandstand in the FogAberdeen

I had initially got up for sunrise when I looked out the window to see a thick blanket of fog over the city so I headed to a local park to photograph this bandstand.

124

Graeme McCormackGlasgow rooftops from The Lighthouse, Glasgow

The rooftops of Glasgow taken from the viewing gallery of The Lighthouse on a sunny spring day. 20th April 2016.

125

Brian Smith

Last One OutSkinflats, Falkirk

Longannet Power Station, opened in 1970, photographed a few months before being powered down in March 2016, on the opposite bank of the River Forth from a house that was built in 1918.

126

David Cation

Castlehill IlluminatedEdinburgh

This image was taken one evening on the Royal Mile. The silvery street lights reflected on the wet cobbles, whilst the complimentary colours illuminating buildings seemed to run down the channel separating the paving sets.

127

Grant Ritchie

Reflections of St GilesOutside St Giles Cathedral

After heavy rain earlier in the day this view caught my eye on the wall in front of the Cathedral, a different view of an often photographed building.

Highly Commended

128

Andrew Howe

Spinning the WheelThe Falkirk Wheel, Falkirk

The Falkirk Wheel is an amazing piece of Engineering, a place I have wanted to visit for a while. This is a Long Exposure image of the boat lift during a full rotate.

129

Andrew MacDougall

Ville Contemporaine 2016The Meadows, Edinburgh The Meadows park in central Edinburgh is now shared by the young and trendy inhabitants of new modern tower blocks at Quartermile. This reminded me of the architect Le Corbusier’s vision of a “Ville Contemperaineî.

130

Ian Biggs

Forth Rail BridgeNorth Queensferry

My one time stopping at the Forth Rail Bridge to get some shots among the residential houses below its structure on a rainy day.

131

Nicholas Homer

Edinburgh EngulfedEdinburgh

Haar pouring over Salisbury Crags and spreading out over the city below. It was moving so quickly that I only had time for a couple of exposures before the buildings were completely engulfed.

Highly Commended

132

Alan Gardiner

Shadow and SpaceGlasgow, an urban space between Albion Street and Shuttle Street.

A very minimalist image of a modern urban space, that shows the shadow of a street light in the foreground, the contrasting textures of stone and grass and an intricate path network towards the background.

133

Greg Urquhart

Leith Shore ReflectionLeith, Edinburgh

A calm sunset at the water of Leith which provided excellent conditions for this reflection shot of the Shore.

134

135

YOUR V IS ION AWARD

136

THE LOXLEY COLOUR - YOUR VISION AWARD

WINNER

Darren Cole

Luskentyre SailsLuskentyre - Isle of Harris

A heavy vignette greatly simplified this classic view of Luskentyre. This allowed the colours and the boat to stand out creating a dramatic, painterly image.

137

138

Neil Barr

“Raasay & Rhonaigh”

Loch a’ Sguirr in the Sound of Raasay - with Rona and Isle of Raasay - on a very wet day from up on near the Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye.

RUNNER UP

139

Andrew Tobin

Highly Commended

Tartan PinesStrathlael, Ullapool area

Rain, cold, overcast, dull. Perfect for seeking out “the other shot” in the woods. The colours and lines of these wet trunks and branches look a bit like an organic tartan.

140

Graham Macfarlane

Autumn Impression Ardbeg, Isle of Islay

Abstract vision of autumn

141

YOUTH C ATEGORY

142

THE YOUNG SCOTTISH LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

OVERALL WINNER

George Rees

East Lomond RockCraigmead Car Park, the Lomonds of Fife

An early morning monochrome image of the small yet magnificent East Lomond hill.

143

144

Andrew Bulloch

Sea Stack, Cape WrathStac Clo Kearvaig, Cape Wrath.

After borrowing my dad’s camera and persuading my mother to drive us to Cape Wrath, we stayed at the remote Kearvaig bothy. This is a huge sea stack I photographed from the cliffs nearby.

RUNNER UP

145

Andrew Robertson

Roofless viewNear Melvich, Sutherland

Roofless cottage near Melvich, Sutherland, left in a sorry state after the new road changes paths.

146

THE JOHN MUIR TRUST - WILD PLACES PRIZES

The John Muir Trust

A charity with a focus on wild places

The John Muir Trust is a UK conservation charity dedicated to protecting and regenerating wild places for people and wildlife. Founded in 1983, they own and look after some of the finest wild land in Scotland including parts of Assynt, Knoydart and Skye as well as Ben Nevis and Schiehallion.  They care for these magnificent landscapes and work with local communities restoring habitats, encouraging wildlife, repairing footpaths and more.

Every year they work with local contractors and volunteers to carry out vital tasks such as maintaining paths, planting trees, removing invasive species and clearing litter to safeguard the character of these wild places. The Trust also campaigns with others to persuade politicians and other decision makers to protect wild land under threat. Through the John Muir Award, they get thousands of people across the UK of all ages and backgrounds involved with nature and wild places.

The Trust believes that landscape photography is a powerful way to showcase the amazing ecological diversity that surrounds us. It can also evoke emotions and feelings that inspire people to get to know these special places, and in doing so, value and protect them. In the words of John Muir, the Scots-born founder of the modern conservation movement, and the inspiration behind the Trust’s work, ‘thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.’

The Trust is a membership organisation that exists to protect wild land for its own sake. If the images in this wonderful book inspire you, and you too believe that wild places are a necessity, then join them, donate to their appeals, or go online and sign-up for their monthly newsletter.

johnmuirtrust.org

147

Lewis Golbourn

Evening Skye Trotternish, Isle of Skye

I have only ever thought to shoot this area at dawn before, but decided that things might look interesting at sunset instead, turns out I was either right, lucky or both.

148

Greg Whitton

Am BuachailleSandwood Bay, Sutherland

The great sea stack, Am Buachaille, stands as a guardian to Sandwood Bay. A Bastion against the ferocity of the Atlantic.

149

Mark Appleton

Clouds clearing Slioch (The Spear)Loch Maree, Wester Ross

One of my favourite Scots Pines on the shore line of Loch Maree. I arrived at this popular location just after a snow shower was clearing Slioch (The Spear).

150

Chris Miles

Bla BheinnIsle Of Skye

Low cloud clearing the face of Bla Bheinn (Blaven) creating moody conditions after a passing squall.

151

Chris Stuart

Reflections of LiathachNorth side of Liathach, Torridon

As the setting sun catches the cliff tops of Liathach they are reflected in the still waters of a lochan. A long walk, a long wait, eaten alive by midges. Totally worth it.

152

John Richardson

Last LightFrom Badcall looking towards Foinaven and Arkle, Sutherland

The sun broke through late in the day and I thought of this location knowing it would work in evening light. By running up the hill I was just in time to make this image.

153

Jonathan Cruickshank

River Coe FallsThe falls just off the A82 on The River Coe

Looking Eastward up The River Coe and the falls, then onward into the heart of the glen. All this on a day that covered all of the seasons in five minutes.

154

155

THE FOUR SEASONS

156

THE AUTUMN

WINNER

James Roddie

‘Stand’Munlochy , Ross-shire

A week of mist and fog coincided with the period of the most vibrant autumn colours in October 2016 in the Northern Highlands.

157

158

Stephen Hinde

Bleak MidwinterHowgate, Midlothian

A handheld shot from within my car during a heavy snow shower. I was taken by the way the lane disappears into the bleak winter background.

Winner - Winter

159

Rod Hanchard-Goodwin

Bluebell CarpetDalkeith Country Park

Each year I visit Dalkeith Country Park to photograph the bluebells but in 2016 it was a bumper year and after several attempts I finally got some decent light.

Winner - Spring

160

Dougie Cunningham

The Forth Bridge

Late summer flowers beneath the Forth Bridge, in North Queensferry, one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks!

Winner - Summer

161

David Mould

‘Winters morning parade’ Thornhill, Carse of Stirling

I have shot this scene in all seasons, weathers and light, waiting for the perfect combina-tion requires knowledge, patience and sensible clothing… getting the added elements of the sheep and shadows, requires luck…

Highly Commended - Winter

162

Peter Bindon

Buachaille Etive MorGlen Coe

A view of Buachaille Etive Mor through the trees taken one morning in late August

Commended - Summer

163

Lesley Martin

Kenmore in WinterKenmore, Perthshire

I took a day drip to Kenmore with a picture in mind but due to the severe weather the access road was inaccessible. As I was leaving to head home at the end of the day I noticed the freezing fog moving across Loch Tay which shrouded the town of Kenmore.

Commended - Winter

164

Brian Doyle

Dunnottar DustingDunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

Shortly after sunrise at Dunnottar Castle on a cold January morning.

Commended - Winter

165

Karen Deakin

Snowy Lochan Na h-AchlaiseRannoch Moor, Highlands

Arriving before dawn at Lochan na h-Achlaise, and just after heavy snow fall, I was fortunate to witness some beautiful light illuminating a desolate winter landscape as the sun rose into the sky.

Commended - Winter

166

Alan Cameron Forest TexturesGlengarry Forest

On a fleeting visit to Glen Garry. I was intrigued by the position of the tall slender pines, looking like a barrier protecting the less mature trees behind them, & the textures & colour within the frame.

Commended - Autumn

167

Stuart Stevenson Snow starBraidwood, South Lanarkshire Taken on the morning after 2 days of non stop snowfall - it wasn’t possible to drive, so I walked to a nearby gorge, and watched a warm sun rise over the frozen landscape.

Commended - Autumn

168

Katherine Fotheringham

The CyclistStormontfield, Perthshire

Taken on a foggy autumnal morning. As I stopped the car, this cyclist passed. I quickly set up my camera and took one photo before he was gone.

Commended - Autumn

169

Gary Chittick

An Autumn Glow at The HermitageOssian’s Hall, Craigvinean Forest, The Hermitage, Dunkeld, Perthshire

A late afternoon, long exposure capture of the vibrant autumn colours and light drawing out the beauty of Ossian’s Hall, The River Braan and Craigvinean Forest at The Hermitage in Perthshire.

Commended - Autumn

170

171

Lizzie Shepherd

SnowlinesA70 a few miles north of Carnwath, Lanarkshire

Taken on the fringes of an avenue of beech trees that always catch my eye; here using their delicate branches as a framework, mimicking the shapes of the snowy field and trees beyond.

172

173

F INAL ISTS

174

Adam Cochrane

175

Alan Neil

176

Alexander Jeffrey

177

Alexander Rutherford

178

Alison Porwol

179

Allan Donald

180

Allan Wright

181

Alun Davies

182

Andrew Jack

183

Andrew Mckay

184

Andrew White (Youth Category)

185

Andrzej Majdanik

186

Angie Latham

187

Anna Toft

188

Anthony Wright

189

Azzam Aishuabi

190

Barry Prole

191

Ben Eaton Williams (Youth)

192

Ben Wayman

193

Beverley Williams

194

Brigid Caulfield

195

Camilo Berenos

196

Charles Everitt

197

Chee Seong Foo

198

Chris Hoskins

199

Chris Lauder

200

Christopher Cullen

201

Cliff Green

202

Clifford Williams

203

Colin Campbell

204

Craig Korszen Bennett

205

Damon Finlay

206

David Antony Reid

207

David Ball

208

David Hendry

209

David McCrone

210

Douglas Bruce

211

Douglas Weir

212

Euan Ross

213

Evelyn Banks

214

Fiona Read

215

Frans Van Hoogstraten

216

Gareth Paxton

217

Garry Smith

218

Graeme Campbell

219

Graham MacKay

220

Gregor Innes

221

Hannah Jackson

222

Hazel Houliston

223

Iain MacLeod

224

Ian Moore

225

Ian Appleton

226

James Ballantyne

227

Jason Friend

228

Jason Gilchrist

229

Jaume Lorens Bach

230

Jodie Barr (Youth)

231

John Dyer

232

John Greenwood

233

John Harris

234

John McSporran

235

John Potter

236

John Thow

237

Jon Gibbs

238

Julian Elliott

239

Keith Proven

240

Keith Tucker

241

Kenneth Gordon

242

Kevin Roberts

243

Lewis Donaldson

244

Lindsey Bucknor

245

Luca Benini

246

Marine Fulford

247

Mark Ferguson

248

Mark Hirst

249

Mark Wilson

250

Martin Cooper

251

Martina Hejdova

252

253

Michela Griffith

254

Mo Bryce

255

Nick Mayer

256

Paul Bradburn

257

Paul Cameron

258

Paul Gilmour

259

Paul Holloway

260

Paul Milne

261

Peter Summer

262

Rab Cardownie

263

Remigiusz Latek

264

Robert Fulton

265

Robert Kerr

266

Rogeer Berry

267

Roger Merrifield

268

Ross Nicholson

269

Russell Smith

270

Ruth Grindrod

271

Scott Rae

272

Simon Booth

273

Simon Ward

274

Stephen Taylor

275

Stephen Whitehorne

276

Stephen Hinde

277

Steve Oates

278

Steven Day (Youth)

279

Susan Miller

280

Tim Burgess

281

Tim Simmons

282

Tony McGarva

283

Wyne Brittle

284

William Dore

285

Wojchiech Kruckzynski

286

Yvonne Hair