“The Red List” Challenge 2023

In this blog post, we feature the images selected as Highly Commended and the overall winner from The Red List Round of the 2023 Pangolin Photo Challenge, along with detailed camera settings for each photo.

In the 2023 Pangolin Photo Challenge, we introduced a new category called The Red List. In this category, participants were assigned the mission of photographing species labelled as ‘Critically Endangered’, ‘Endangered’, or ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List, shedding light on the imminent threat of extinction these animals encounter.

A big thank you to all who participated! If you’re interested in joining the excitement this year, click here to find out how to participate in the 2024 Pangolin Photo Challenge. It’s simple, free, and offers a chance to win exciting safari prizes!

Didn’t catch The Red List Finalists video?

View the video here, and then share your thoughts on who should win. Afterwards, take a look at our outstanding images below to see if your predictions were correct.

Highly Commended
Nice Camera, by Joy Taylor

Canon EOS R5 with an EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

f/5 | 1/640 | 70 mm | ISO 1250

Here is a photograph full of expression. Joy Taylor captured this charming red colobus in Zanzibar’s Jozani Forest. While strolling through the forest, they came across this large troop. This particular one paused for a snack and noticed Joy. The phrase “here’s me looking at you, looking at me” comes to mind and playfully enhances the moment, illustrating the mutual interaction between the photographer and the subject.

Highly Commended
Time Passing, by James Mertens

Canon EOS R6m2 with an EF-S17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

f/22 | 1/25 | 55 mm | ISO 100

James captures this photograph of an Honu peacefully resting on the beach, its shell standing out against the golden Hawaiian sand and lush green coastal rocks. The image captures the Honu in a serene moment, showcasing the innate beauty of these magnificent sea turtles, known as symbols of good fortune and longevity. Well done on the beautiful image, James.

Highly Commended
Mysterious and Rare Experience, by Harrie Franssen

Canon EOS R6 with an RF100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM

f/5.6 | 1/50 | 100 mm | ISO 25600

Harrie described his experience as a visually and audibly surreal moment. During a sunset safari drive with the Punda Maria guides, they embarked on a quest to spot the elusive Pennant-winged Nightjar. The suspense heightened as night fell and they heard its distinctive call. Through a combination of a flashlight and good fortune, they eventually caught a glimpse of the bird, allowing Harrie to capture this rare image.

Highly Commended
Puffin Love, by Conrad Peloquin

NIKON Z 8 with an AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR

f/5.6 | 1/800 | 500 mm | ISO 560

Conrad skillfully captured a captivating moment of two puffins engaging and showing affection. The picture portrays their synchronised movements and tender interactions, narrating a tale of connection and companionship—a magical moment frozen in time.

Highly Commended
Leopard Drinking at Night, by Yang Jiao

SONY ILCE-1 with a FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS

f/5.6 | 1/160 | 244 mm | ISO 25600

While it’s not the most unusual entry we’ve seen at a photo hide, what’s truly impressive is how Yang has flawlessly depicted the leopard’s reflection in full detail as it drinks water and gazes directly into the camera. Yang’s attention to detail and skill in capturing the leopard’s reflection are truly commendable.

Winner
Uphill Battle, by Pierre Rossouw

Canon EOS R6 with an EF400mm f/2.8L IS III USM +1.4x III

f/4.5 | 1/2500 | 560 mm | ISO 250

Congratulations to Pierre Rossouw for the fascinating photograph, named Uphill Battle. The image portrays a polar bear ascending a hill against a predominantly white backdrop of ice. What makes this image stand out is Pierre’s skill in capturing the shadow cast on the bear’s feet, highlighting the difficult ascent. Truly an outstanding and remarkable photograph.

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