TWO budding snappers from Falmouth University won recognition at the prestigious British Wildlife Photography Awards last week.

Ben Watkins, 2018 Marine & Natural History Photography BA(Hons) graduate, was awarded the top prize for the Documentary Series category.

Ben, whose winning image story followed the conservation of grey seals in Cornwall, said: “It feels incredible to have won. With this only being the second photo story that I have done, I never expected to get that far in the competition. I’m glad that the judges loved my work and I am honoured that they chose it as the winner in the category.”

Since completing his course this summer, Ben has continued to work on various conservation projects. He was recently published in the October issue of BBC Wildlife Magazine for his work with turtles, and is currently working with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust (photographing Cornwall’s many beautiful nature reserves).

He also continues to work with the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, and is creating a magazine for them which celebrates the work of local seal charities, in the hopes to raise awareness and funds.

Ellie Stones, second year student on the same course, also received a special mention in the Young Photographers category.

Ellie, who was 18 at the time of submission, was delighted to be recognised in the Young Photographers category.

She said: “It was really surprising to even get shortlisted. I remember getting a phone call saying I’d got a special mention and that my image was going in the BWPA 2018 book, which I was so chuffed about! It’s very rewarding that there are actually people (other than your Nan) who believe in your images!”

Ellie had a couple of images shortlisted, but it was her photograph of a Corkwing Wrasse collecting nest materials, taken during a dive led by Falmouth University, that caught the attention of the judges and got her a special mention. After she finishes her course, Ellie would like to study Pangolins, documenting and contributing to their conservation.

Ellie added: “Being at Uni has helped me grow so much as a photographer; I’m a lot more confident with my work, which is largely why I entered the competition! I’d never really entered any competitions before, but I’ve learnt it’s so important to take a chance and get your work out there. As a photographer, I’m developing more and more every time I pick up a camera, and having the opportunity to develop my skills on the course is just amazing!”

Ben agreed: “My time at Falmouth University allowed me to practice [photography] with some of the best equipment available. The location was also a vital part in me choosing the subject for my project and subsequent photo story. My lecturers, Neil Aldridge and Adrian Brown, were also a huge help and gave me the confidence to enter the competition.”

The BWPA is the leading competition for British wildlife photography.

Winners not only receive an award and cash prize; their work is also exposed to a vast media network and is showcased in a touring exhibition and book.

To find out more about the course, visit www.falmouth.ac.uk/mnhphotography