In the enchanting realm of macro photography, where the minute details of nature unfold with stunning clarity, Luke Chambers has emerged triumphant in this year’s Royal Entomological Society Insect Week photography competition. His winning photograph, a serene portrayal of two cuckoo bees delicately perched on a blade of grass in a moment of rest, encapsulates the essence of quietude in the insect world.
Chambers remarked that he was thrilled to discover the sleeping cuckoo bees with evident enthusiasm. He further stated, “Finding any sleeping invertebrate is always brilliant – but two so close together, well that’s like winning the photography lottery”,
Chambers’ photograph not only captures a rare glimpse into the tranquil moments of these bees but also highlights the meticulous artistry required in capturing such fleeting scenes. His careful composition and a keen eye for detail are evident, making the viewer feel almost as if they are intruding upon a private moment in the insect kingdom.
The head judge, Dr. Tim Cockerill, a seasoned broadcaster and photographer, emphasized the significance of such imagery in unveiling the intricate beauty of insects. “Insects are the most diverse group of animals on the planet yet we know so little about most of them,” Dr. Cockerill remarked.
Indeed, Chambers’ photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the remarkable diversity and often overlooked tranquility within the insect realm. At a time when insect populations face numerous threats, including habitat loss and climate change, these images play a crucial role in fostering appreciation and understanding.
Alongside Chambers’ winning entry, other notable photographs adorned the competition, each offering a unique glimpse into the behaviors and habitats of insects. Tim Jonas’ captivating portrayal of caddis-fly larvae and Gustav Parenmark’s patient capture of a banded demoiselle damselfly at rest were among the entries that captivated judges and viewers alike.
(caddis-fly larvae)
The competition celebrated young talent, with seventeen-year-old Gustav Parenmark impressing in the under-18 category with his early-morning shot of the damselfly. “Waking up early is the key to photographing sleeping odonates,” Parenmark shared, underscoring the dedication and patience required to capture these fleeting moments.
(banded demoiselle damselfly)
From Jamie Smart’s unexpected discovery of a robber fly in his wild garden to Abi Batten’s endearing encounter titled “A wasp joined us for tea,” each photograph tells a story of intimacy and discovery in the insect world. These images not only showcase the aesthetic appeal of insects but also illuminate their ecological roles and behavioral nuances.
(a robber fly)
(A wasp)
In conclusion, Luke Chambers’ winning photograph stands as a testament to the power of photography in revealing the hidden beauty of nature. As we navigate an era where environmental conservation is paramount, these images serve as poignant reminders of the delicate ecosystems that insects inhabit and the importance of preserving them for future generations to marvel at and cherish.
