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Australian Photographer Wins Grand Prize in Global Contest

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ross Gudgeon, an Australian photographer, won the grand prize in the Close-Up Photographer of the Year for 'Fractal Forest'.
The image is a close-up of cauliflower soft coral in Lembeh Strait, Indonesia.
The contest drew more than 12,000 entries from 63 countries.
Imre Potyó won for 'Blue Army'.
Filippo Carugati won for 'Amphibian Galaxy'.

History

Historical Context

The Close-Up Photographer of the Year contest, launched in 2020, attracted over 12,000 entries from 63 countries, reflecting a surge in macro photography interest. Australian Ross Gudgeon won for his image of cauliflower soft coral, underscoring marine biodiversity. This event aligns with growing marine conservation awareness, echoing initiatives like the 1972 Marine Protection Act in the U.S., emphasizing the need to protect fragile ecosystems.

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Story summary

Ross Gudgeon, an Australian photographer, won the grand prize in the Close-Up Photographer of the Year for 'Fractal Forest'.
The image is a close-up of cauliflower soft coral in Lembeh Strait, Indonesia.
The contest drew more than 12,000 entries from 63 countries.
Imre Potyó won for 'Blue Army'.
Filippo Carugati won for 'Amphibian Galaxy'.

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