As seasons change, we begin to appreciate the enchanting colors and mood that weather brings. For instance, summer’s carefree vibes, while winter’s warmth brings friends and family closer. But that’s not all. The seasons also enhance your creativity, especially when working in the visual arts. In photography, for instance, you notice how the light and the environment undergo an electric transformation. The clouds flirt on some days while thunder roars on others. To honor those who continuously document such transformation, the Royal Meteorological Society and the Standard Chartered Bank announced the Weather Photographer of the Year award. And today, let us give you a glimpse into their striking shortlisted nominees.
The lead image is by Lesley Hellgeth and is courtesy of the Standard Chartered Weather Photographer of the Year award. All images are used with permission.
Who Made it to The Shortlist From The US?
Among thousands of images sent from across the globe, the Standard Chartered Weather Photographer of the Year revealed that two US photographers made the cut: Peter Reinold and Lesley Hellgeth. Peter, who hails from Seattle, and Lesley, who is from Mount Vernon, have both been chosen in the Smartphone category.
Peter revealed that he always takes the window seat, as one never knows what they might encounter from the high altitude. The effort paid off in his case, which resulted in this spectacular image. Speaking about the photograph, the judges said that the image “encapsulates the spirit of smartphone photography. It’s opportunistic. [This circular rainbow] would have been there for just a second, and [he] captured it.”
On the other hand, Lesley’s photograph of the Pantheon reminds us what would happen if we were to live on Mars. The jury loved how the image portrays the impact of Saharan dust on Athens, which occurred last April. The warm-hued image displays the “interconnectivity of weather conditions around the world,” which is what the judges wanted to see.
Their photographs will now compete in the top 25 shortlisted entries. Those who are keen on seeing them winners will get a chance to vote publicly for them. Voting begins on 19 September and will close by 17 October. The winner will be announced on 30 October.
Now in its ninth edition, the Standard Chartered Weather Photographer of the Year is one of the most esteemed platforms for raising awareness about environmental issues that endanger us and our planet, including the climate change crisis. Hosted by the Royal Meteorological Society, the awards hope to highlight the fragility of our planet and its abundant beauty that’s diminishing due to human intervention and greed. Thus, the inclusion of Peter and Lesley can only bring one joy.
Other Nominees of The Weather Photographer of the Year Shortlist
“This year’s entries continue to impress with their originality and depth,” said Professor Liz Bentley, Chief Executive of the Royal Meteorological Society, about the Weather Photographer of the Year Shortlist. “They not only showcase the severe impacts of climate change but also remind us of its reach into all corners of the globe. We need to act now to address these issues.”
As for the prizes, the overall winner of the Weather Photographer of the Year will receive 5,000 pounds ($6603), while those in the young and smartphone category will recover 750 pounds ($990) and 2,500 pounds ($3301), respectively. The winner of the Climate Award, which is a new category, will receive 1,000 pounds ($1320), while the public favorite photographer only receives a title.
For more details on the voting process, please visit the Royal Meteorological Society’s website. People can also vote for ‘Public Favourite’ on social media with the #SCWPYvote hashtag.
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