Ville Heikkinen Wins Prestigious Nature Photography Award for the Second Time
In a distinguished milestone, Ville Heikkinen has become just the fourth wildlife photographer to be honored with the coveted Nature Photo of the Year award on two occasions, solidifying his place in the annals of this celebrated competition.
On Saturday, October 19, at the elegant Finlandia Hall in Helsinki, Heikkinen’s breathtaking piece titled “Bear and Raven” captured the top prize. The jury praised the photograph for its evocative atmosphere, drawing viewers into a scene steeped in storytelling. “The photo presents a compelling narrative that beckons for a second glance,” the panel remarked. “It recalls the fables of our childhood—what clever trick has the Raven played on the bear this time?”
The jury also noted the strategic positioning of both subjects within the frame, a testament to Heikkinen’s dedication and skill. “A composition this aligned doesn’t happen by chance; it requires unwavering patience and an intimate understanding of one’s surroundings. This is nature photography at its finest, bringing remote experiences to those who may never have the chance to witness them firsthand.”
This year’s competition was fiercely contested, with over 14,000 entries from 844 photographers across eight categories, as well as a youth category. The grand prize alone was a substantial 10,000 euros. Among the 90 finalists selected, the images were also opened up for public voting on social media platforms. Markku Pihlajaniemi’s poignant capture, titled “Looking for the Future,” was crowned the 2019 Audience Favorite.
All award-winning images will be featured in a traveling exhibition that will showcase the best in nature photography throughout Finland over the next year. Organized by the Finnish Nature Photographers Association, the competition is the largest of its kind in the Nordics, boasting a vibrant membership of 2,800 both professional and amateur photographers.
In a year where the beauty of Finland’s nature has been immortalized through countless lenses, Heikkinen’s achievements continue to inspire both budding and seasoned photographers alike.