“You wonder if your work measures up to the world’s best… so validation is probably the biggest emotion. It’s an acknowledgment that you’re on that level,” said photographer Randy Robbins after learning that his photo of a frozen doe near Susanville, captured in December 2020, would be showcased on the global stage. “A lot of time goes into photography, and it’s encouraging and motivating to know that the time I’ve put in is worth it and being recognized.”
Robbins found it “kind of ironic” that the honored image was taken with an iPhone rather than his professional equipment. “I had a big telephoto lens with me when I stumbled upon the scene, but I needed a wide angle. The ice was melting, and I didn’t have time to return with a different lens before the scene was gone, so I snapped it with my phone.”
The photograph is the first-ever smartphone image to receive recognition in this prestigious competition.
Reflecting on the unexpected impact of his work, Robbins said, “I knew it was a poignant and haunting image… beauty in death, a reminder of the circle of life—it tells a story. But I didn’t realize it would resonate on such an international level.”
Robbins first shared the photo on social media nearly 4 years ago, noting that over the years, he was certain he had captured the doe and her fawn on his property through trail cameras. He remarked on the doe’s serene passing, saying, “It looks like she laid down and went to sleep. It’s nature’s reminder of the fragility of life and the grand design of it all.”
Robbins’ photo of the frozen doe received the “Highly Commended” honors in the “Natural Artistry” category of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, now in its 60th year and widely regarded as the most prestigious wildlife photography contest in the world. This year’s competition attracted nearly 60,000 entries from 120 countries, with only 100 images selected for the exhibition. The exhibition will debut at the Natural History Museum in London before embarking on a global tour. Robbins and his wife Jill will be attending the awards ceremony in London this October.
Photo provided with the permission of Randy Robbins
