The Scott Antarctic Expedition Centenary
To celebrate the centenary of Robert Falcon Scott’s Antarctic Expedition, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust has chosen this spectacular location as the grand prize for the WWT Photography Competition 2011-2012. WWT’s founder, Sir Peter Scott was the son of Robert Falcon Scott and it is the widely held view that his father’s final expedition provided the inspiration for Peter’s life’s work. Knowing his foreseeable fate, Robert Falcon Scott wrote in one of his last letters to his wife to "make the boy interested in natural history if you can; it is better than games".
In the spirit of the Scott family who, for years have inspired generations with a passion for nature, the WWT Photography Competition aims to pass on this infectious enthusiasm to others through wildlife photography, which can in turn inspire others. Nature photography is a hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds with an adoration for the wonders of the natural world. Whether it be Robert Falcon Scott through his ambitious expedition, or his son, Sir Peter Scott’s wetland centres, art and TV show, this photography competition aims to carry on the legacy by continuing to deliver the joy of wildlife to yet more generations.
The expedition brought back with it a number of discoveries including numerous never before seen species of animals. But, perhaps a legacy even greater, was the result of those last writings to his wife, as their son, Peter, went on to become one of the most famous conservationists of his time, founding a number of wildlife organisations, including WWT. Also his BBC series, Look was filmed at the WWT headquarters in Slimbridge, Gloucestershire and lasted over 25 years. The popular series inspired a younger generation to become more involved with nature and wildlife, and Peter Scott went on to become the first person to be knighted for services to conservation, and his legacy continues to break new ground today.
The vast white wilderness of the Antarctic is a place of haunting natural beauty which for many, is the ultimate destination for those seeking adventure to the world’s most extreme wetland habitat. The hostile frozen land remains a desolate and isolated continent
The WWT photography competition encourages people of all ages, to become involved with nature through nine WWT wetland centres located across the country. There’s never been a better time to immerse yourself in nature and to experience the spectacles that the upcoming seasons have to offer, by capturing those moments on camera and sharing with other enthusiasts.
In recognition of this great legacy, and the power we each have to change the world just by inspiring other people, WWT and partners are offering an opportunity to win an expedition to Antarctica. Throughout the year, at every centre there will be:
• tips from our expert conservation staff on opportunities for great photographs,
• photography courses for anyone that would like some professional advice,
• online entries visible so you can take inspiration from other photographers
• special offers from camera manufacturers
Photographers entering three or more photographs in two or more of the seasonal heats will be eligible for the Portfolio Photographer of the Year award and the chance to win the fantastic prize of this once in a lifetime trip to Antarctica.
