A breathtaking photograph of a common frog captured in a golden pool has claimed the top prize in a prestigious wildlife photography contest organized by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. The winning image was taken by photographer Peter Smith at Letcombe Valley in Oxfordshire, showcasing the amphibian in extraordinary detail against a shimmering golden backdrop.

Smith's victory came after he successfully outperformed numerous competitors in what proved to be a highly competitive contest. The photographer explained the dedication required to capture his prize-winning shot, revealing the careful timing and patience involved in wildlife photography. "I knew that common frogs congregate every year to breed in a small pond at Letcombe, but no one knows exactly when they will do so, only that it is usually in February," Smith reflected on his winning photograph.

The winning photographer described his methodical approach to capturing the perfect moment. "So I kept an eye on the local nature reports for any hint of it starting, as well as visiting Letcombe several times until I finally got the right day," he continued. "I managed to capture this individual in the late afternoon sun with the reflections from the background foliage making the water appear golden." This detailed explanation highlights the dedication and expertise required in wildlife photography.

The contest featured multiple categories beyond the main prize, with eight additional winners recognized across diverse photography categories. These ranged from "nature on your doorstep" to "mobile phone photography," demonstrating the contest's inclusive approach to wildlife photography. Among the notable category winners was Tom Eastwood, whose photograph of a great crested grebe and its young, spotted at the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham, earned him the birds photography award.

Smith's victory comes with substantial rewards for his photographic achievement. He received a smart bird-feeder camera and bird-feeding accessories as his prize. Additionally, along with all other category winners, he will have the opportunity to participate in a wildlife photography masterclass, providing valuable learning opportunities for continuing his craft. The winning images will also be featured in the Wildlife Trust's official calendar for 2026, giving the photographers' work broader public exposure.

The competition attracted significant participation from photography enthusiasts across the region. A distinguished panel of judges carefully reviewed more than 250 submitted photographs to select the winners for this year's contest. This substantial number of entries demonstrates the growing interest in wildlife photography and the appreciation for natural beauty in the local area. The contest continues to serve as an important platform for both amateur and experienced photographers to showcase their skills in capturing the region's diverse wildlife.