Royal Meteorological Society Commemorates 10th Anniversary of Weather Photography Contest with Special Interview
Title: Documenting the Climate: A Decade of the Weather Photographer of the Year Contest
Over the last decade, the Royal Meteorological Society (RMetS) has welcomed the public to experience weather through the lenses of photographers. Through the Standard Chartered Weather Photographer of the Year competition, both amateur and professional photographers are invited to capture the stunning beauty, intensity, and transformative effects of weather worldwide. This contest not only honors photography but also emphasizes the vital conversation surrounding meteorology and climate change.
Alongside commemorating ten years of striking weather photography, the RMetS will also observe its 175th anniversary in 2025. These significant milestones render their mission increasingly pertinent: to enhance public knowledge of weather and climate science, empower professionals in the discipline, and encourage global awareness through storytelling and education.
A Celebration of Narratives Through the Atmosphere
One of the standout moments this year is “Evening Shower Over the Needles” by Jamie Russell (UK), which secured Third Place Overall in the 2024 competition. This image depicts a spectacular rainfall scenario above the iconic white chalk cliffs of the Needles on the Isle of Wight, stunningly illuminated by the evening’s golden light. Such a photograph embodies the essence of the contest: creativity, storytelling, and meteorological observation.
The submissions over the years have varied from breathtaking lightning strikes and towering tornadoes to serene scenes of mist and fog. A few remarkable entries from the last decade include:
– “Tornado on Show” by Tim Moxon (2016 Winner), showcasing a formidable twister in Colorado with storm chasers observing it.
– “Superstrike” by Mike Olbinski (2017 Winner), capturing a colossal lightning strike in Arizona.
– “Morning Fog” by Giulio Montini (2021 Winner), where sunlight pierces through foliage and fog, creating radiant crepuscular rays.
These visuals do more than depict weather; they ignite contemplation, spark curiosity, and highlight the connection between humanity and the atmosphere.
Weather with a Profound Message
As senior broadcast meteorologist Kirsty McCabe FRMetS points out, the competition has progressed alongside the increasing global recognition of climate change. “Earlier submissions highlight beauty and power. Recent entries echo the growing apprehensions regarding climate change through subjects like flooding, wildfires, and drought,” McCabe shares.
Photographs such as “Forest Fire Boundary” by Tran Tuan (2023 Runner-up) and “African Dust Over Athens” by Lesley Hellgeth (2024 Mobile Runner-up) emphasize environmental challenges and the interconnected nature of global weather systems.
What distinguishes the Weather Photographer of the Year contest is not only its environmental orientation but also its inclusivity. Recent years have seen advancements in mobile photography and drone technology, permitting a broader range of submissions from everyday photographers. In 2023, “Braving the Storm” by Lez Irwig (Australia) triumphed in the Mobile category, illustrating a solitary surfer contemplating tumultuous waves beneath darkened skies.
Educational Impact and Global Reach
The contest aligns with the Society’s broader vision: to offer dependable, science-driven weather and climate information. As an autonomous body with a Royal Charter, RMetS promotes climate literacy, nurtures emerging meteorologists, and stimulates data-driven policymaking devoid of political or commercial influences.
The photography contest supports this mission by:
– Rendering complex weather and climate phenomena accessible and visually engaging.
– Prompting discussions among the public, educators, and policymakers.
– Inviting submissions from diverse global communities, leading to a richer representation of worldwide climate narratives.
This commitment is further exemplified in the Society’s aim to ensure every school leaver attains climate literacy—a vital step toward fostering a knowledgeable and resilient future.
Looking Ahead: 10 Years of Weather Marvel
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the 2025 competition has broadened its submission timeframe to include photographs taken within the past decade. This alteration invites photographers to revisit impactful images from earlier years, and special arrangements are being made for an online gallery featuring highlights from the last 10 iterations of the contest.
To mirror its international scope and principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, RMetS is broadening its judging panel to encompass a variety of viewpoints and expertise, including esteemed meteorologists, professional photographers, and climate communicators.
What Judges Seek
Annually, judges assess submissions not only for photographic quality but also for meteorological insight and emotional resonance. As McCabe stresses, storytelling is paramount: “Consider the narrative your image conveys—especially when portraying themes like climate change. However, beauty in everyday weather also captivates audiences. Not all winning photos need to be spectacular.”
Advice for Aspiring Participants
Entrants are encouraged to embrace creativity and awareness, whether capturing the surreal crimson glow of dust storms, the eerie hush before snowfall, or the relentless force of a tropical storm.