Headland Light and Motion — How It Earned a Highly Commended at the 2025 APP

Headland Light & Motion — How It Earned a Highly Commended at the 2025 Australian Photographic Prize

Golden sunrise light over coastal headland with foreground wave motion – Highly Commended, 2025 Australian Photographic Prize, Landscape Category
Award: Highly Commended  |  Category: Landscape  |  Final Score: 75
Submitted: 22 June 2025  |  Location: Coastal headland, Queensland

Story Behind the Shot

Warm light kisses the headland while incoming waves rush the lens. Aim: balance landmark, light, and motion in one cohesive frame.

Why It Scored Well

  • Golden side-light creates a clear focal anchor.
  • Leading water motion pulls the viewer into scene.
  • Good vertical balance between sky, land, water.

Where It Could Improve

  • White-water highlights verge on clipping; blend to retain texture.
  • Cloud structure pleasant but not dramatic; impacts overall “wow”.
  • Mild haze softens headland micro-contrast; CPL/clarity could help.

Lessons

  • Expose for whites in surf; recover shadows later.
  • Plan for days when sky and foreground both peak.
  • Use polarisation to manage glare and haze.

Return to the series hub • See upcoming dates.