RENATO GRANIERI South Georgia Island in the Atlantic Ocean THE PHOTOGRAPHER SAID: I wanted to focus on king penguin colonies in South Georgia and the Falklands, showing their behaviour, but also the habitat they call home. The density of wildlife on this remote gem of the South Atlantic is extraordinary — some colonies reach 200,000 breeding pairs. I was keen to capture their beauty as well as the resilience and toughness that allows them to survive in such harsh conditions. South Georgia is exposed to storms and strong winds even in summer, so the best time to visit is from October to March. However, some researchers do live there all year round. Instagram: @renato_granieri_photography
The judging panel
HOLLY-MARIE CATO Documentary and commercial photographer MATT DUTILE Travel, portrait, and interior photographer SADIE GOULD Picture editor, Guardian Travel / Saturday Magazine CAROL KÖRTING Photo editor, Leica Fotografie International Magazine AISHA NAZAR Picture researcher, National Geographic Traveller (UK) LUKE STACKPOOLE Lifestyle and adventure photographer JONATHAN STOKES Lifestyle and travel photographer BECKY REDMAN Art director, National Geographic Traveller (UK) BEN ROWE Picture editor, National Geographic Traveller (UK)
THE PRIZES
The winners and runners-up all receive a year’s subscription to National Geographic Traveller (UK) and online tickets to the forthcoming The Masterclasses.
SEE THE FULL GALLERY OF WINNING SHOTS AND FINALISTS AT NATIONALGEOGRAPHIC.COM/TRAVEL