Sussex Teenager Shines Bright as Runner-Up in Prestigious Wildlife Photography Competition

A youth from Sussex has been awarded runner-up in the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2024.

Fifteen-year-old Johann Morrison, hailing from Brighton, was acknowledged in the 12-15 age category for his shot of a gannet in motion.

He snapped the picture, titled “Misty Descent”, at Bempton Cliffs in Yorkshire, where he spotted the bird soaring above the foggy cliff edge, merely 20 feet away.

Johann expressed that this photograph stands among his most significant accomplishments.

The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards motivate youngsters aged 18 and under to capture the essence of the animal kingdom through photography or mobile devices.

The awards are part of the RSPCA’s goal to encourage individuals to foster a better environment for animals.

The victors were revealed during a ceremony at the Tower of London on Thursday, December 19.

Johann mentioned: “Being nominated for these awards was just as thrilling as I had anticipated.

“I have been passionate about photography for over a year and a half now.

“I recall visiting the Isle of Mull in Scotland a few years back and taking a very inexpensive camcorder with me.

“After an incredible encounter with some otters, I felt a sense of pride in capturing them on film, prompting me to use photography to enhance my enjoyment of the outdoors.

“As an artist at heart, blending art with wildlife has been a dream realized, encouraging me to explore nature more frequently.

“This gannet photograph remains one of my most treasured images to date.

“I was determined to utilize my wide-angle lens to depict the gannets within their natural setting.

“The significant presence of mist proved to be a challenge.

“Nonetheless, I believe that the mist in my image adds a captivating ambiance to the cliffs, enhancing its appeal.”

A panel of photography specialists, including wildlife photographers, prior winners, and RSPCA photographers, judged the awards.