11 Aug 2025 31st Annual Photo Contest Winners
Award-winning Master Photographer Joe Campanellie recently served as judge for the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park’s annual photo contest, carefully reviewing hundreds of submissions. Reflecting on the process, Campanellie remarked, “There were some incredible images submitted for this year’s contest. Selecting my top ten and the Best of Show was by no means an easy task.”
The Alligator Farm’s renowned Wild Bird Rookery offers an unparalleled opportunity for photographers to capture intimate and striking images of nesting Florida wading birds in their natural behaviors. Beyond the rookery, the park encourages photographers to explore its diverse animal collection, including exotic birds, alligators, turtles, and more.
Entries are evaluated on originality, composition, behavioral depiction, habitat representation, and overall image quality—challenging participants to combine technical skill with creative vision. This blend of artistry and wildlife conservation makes the contest a highlight for both local and visiting photographers alike.
BEST IN SHOW
Jorge Perez, Miramar, FL
Snowy egret Egretta t. thula
Equipment used: Nikon Z8 mirrorless camera, Tamron 50-400 mm lens
“I picked the flight image of the snowy egret dipping into the water because of the impact of the image and the technical excellence of the capture. Great selection of aperture and shutter speed to freeze the egret in flight. The eye is tact sharp, the water coming off the feet gives the image a great sense of motion, and the reflection is gorgeous.” ~Joe Campanellie
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Tim Barker, Orlando, FL
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja
Daniel Garrett, Rockville, MD
Black crowned crane Balearica pavonina
Tim Barker, Orlando, FL
Little blue heron Egretta caerulea
Sam Henderson, St. Augustine, FL
White-cheeked pintail Anas bahamensis
Mark Hodgson, St. Augustine, FL
Green heron Butorides v. virescens
Ross Eatman, Gainesville, FL
Hoffman’s two-toed sloth “Teddy” Choloepus hoffmanni
Jacqueline Burke, Perkiomenville, PA
Great egret Ardea alba egretta
William R. Moquin, Jr, St. Augustine, FL
Roseate spoonbill Platalea ajaja
Tim Barker, Orlando, FL
Great egret Ardea alba egretta
Thank you for taking the time to explore this year’s winning images.
We hope you found the selections inspiring and reflective of the remarkable wildlife and moments captured at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.