Hungarian Academy of Sciences’ \u201cNatura Mirabilis \u2013 Nature\u2019s Wonders\u201d photography contest official results<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The results of the \u201cNatura Mirabilis \u2013 Nature\u2019s Wonders\u201d photography contest have been officially announced, introducing a new initiative within Hungary\u2019s nature photography landscape. Organized by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA), the competition focuses on presenting the diversity of the natural world through scientifically informed visual storytelling. The awarded images are now available both in a physical exhibition and online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The competition was launched in connection with the bicentenary of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and organized by its Division of Biological Sciences of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The central theme addressed the \u201cwonders of living nature,\u201d covering a broad spectrum from microscopic life forms such as viruses to complex ecosystems and human interaction with the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The professional partner of the contest was the naturArt \u2013 Hungarian Nature Photographers\u2019 Association, a key organization representing Hungary\u2019s nature photography community. This collaboration ensured a structured and professionally grounded evaluation process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A total of 195 photographers submitted entries, including 64 young participants. Altogether, 2,299 images were entered into the competition, reflecting substantial engagement from both established and emerging photographers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The submissions demonstrated a wide range of approaches, from documentary-style wildlife photography to more experimental and conceptual interpretations of natural phenomena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The judging process consisted of three rounds, during which the jury assessed the entries based on aesthetic quality, scientific relevance, and authenticity of representation. According to jury chairman Zsolt Kalot\u00e1s, many images that reached the second round already met international standards in terms of quality and execution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The final selection of exhibited and awarded photographs emerged from this advanced stage of evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The competition recognized three winners in each category, alongside a dedicated youth award and a grand prize. The awards ceremony took place during the opening event of the Biological Sciences Division\u2019s bicentenary program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The prizes were presented by Tam\u00e1s Freund, President of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The event highlighted the role of nature photography not only as an artistic discipline but also as a tool for scientific communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The list of awardees includes photographers already known from national and international competitions, such as \u201cNature Photographer of the Year.\u201d At the same time, the contest provided visibility for new talents, particularly among younger participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This combination reflects the ongoing renewal and diversity of Hungary\u2019s nature photography field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Several awarded and exhibited images were created using modern imaging technologies, including drones and action cameras. These tools enable photographers to capture perspectives that were previously difficult to access, expanding the visual language of nature photography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the same time, their use introduces additional considerations regarding environmental impact and the ethical aspects of photographing wildlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each exhibited photograph is accompanied by a short description outlining the circumstances of its creation and the natural phenomenon depicted. This contextual information supports both general audiences and photography practitioners in understanding the images more thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Technical metadata\u2014such as exposure settings and equipment used\u2014is also provided, offering insight into the photographic process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The selected and awarded works are currently on display at the headquarters of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Budapest. The exhibition presents a curated overview of the competition and offers visitors direct access to the highest-rated images.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to the physical exhibition, the organizers have made the awarded photographs accessible online. This approach increases visibility and allows international audiences to explore the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n