Beauty in simplicity: Aussie takes out international photo prize

Canberra photographer, Tracy Ryan, received third prize in the nature/flower category in the International Photography Awards, USA, for her simple yet beautiful backyard photograph.

The competition runs annually, with this year attracting more than 14,000 entries from across the globe. And with only three winners in each category, to Tracy’s surprise, she was one of them, despite having taken the photo back in January 2020, before the perils of lockdown.

 

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A post shared by Tracy Ryan Photography (@tracyryanphotography)

Speaking to The Canberra Times, Tracy explains how thrilled she was to be recognised on an international scale for her photograph, especially since she prides herself on being a photographer in the nature, landscape, and commercial space.

“Amazing, it’s been amazing. I was the only female from the ACT and one of only three female photographers in Australia to win anything, so it’s pretty amazing. I’m really, really chuffed,” she told The Canberra Times.

Her astounding photograph of a bee resting on a bright beautiful sunflower has really brightened up the day of many Australians with the pandemic blues.

“I love sunflowers and I always have a patch every summer and this one was one of about 10 or 12, and I went out every day at the same time to see what photograph I could get of the sunflowers,” she said.

After initially forgetting about her submission, it really was a surprise when Tracy found out she had won a prize. “So the other morning when I found the email that said that I had won the prize, I thought, ‘Wow, that’s really lovely to have come through all of this and receive that prize’.”

 

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A post shared by Tracy Ryan Photography (@tracyryanphotography)

Her work captures Australia beautifully, and her love for travel has seen her photograph all across the country and win multiple awards. In fact, she received two honourable mentions in the International Photography Awards in 2016.

Everyone is capable of taking a good photo

Not only is photography a rewarding hobby, but you don’t have to have the best equipment or the newest smartphone to take a good picture. If you want to take up photography, you most definitely should! Here are some things to look out for:

1. Be wary of sand and water: there is no such thing as a weatherproof lens.
2. Use proper cleaning equipment so as to not damage your camera.
3. Use a clean and dry camera bag or phone case to protect your equipment.
4. If you’re using a camera, make sure you check for loose screws.

To read more tips, head to our article: here.