The photographer behind the award-winning image stumbled upon his remarkable subject in a rare moment of serendipity.
A chance encounter with a lynx has led to the recognition of “Paws,” a stunning photograph by Ossi Saarinen, as this year’s top nature photo.
The jury could not help but commend the photograph for its boldness, clearly standing apart from the staples of traditional nature photography. In an unexpected twist, Saarinen found himself just meters away from the lynx, caught momentarily off guard by the creature’s proximity.
The striking composition focuses solely on the lynx’s robust forelegs and thick, fur-clad paws, elegantly resting on a moss-covered tree trunk. This intimate portrayal invites the viewer to appreciate the beauty of the lynx in a way that few images do.
Organized by the Finnish Nature Photographers’ Association, this year’s competition attracted more than 12,000 submissions from over 700 photographers, marking its impressive 45th edition.