Daniel O'Meley, Beyond the mist (ENTRIES CLOSED - December theme: Your favourite shot of '25)

Sometimes the most rewarding shots come from the days that seem like a total loss. On 09/08/2025, I set out on the East Rim and Wildflower track at Fitzroy Falls with a specific goal: to find and photograph a Glossy Black Cockatoo. Instead, I was met with overcast skies and steady rain—less than ideal conditions for birding, and a complete bust for the species I was tracking. However, as I reached the lookout, I realized the rain had brought its own gift. A heavy mist was rolling through the valley, softening the midday light and highlighting the layered textures of the Great Dividing Range. I pivoted from wildlife to landscape, capturing this view of the East Rim as it was swallowed by the clouds. This photograph is a 2025 favorite because it serves as a reminder that even when the birds don't show up, the Australian bush always provides a story worth telling if you're willing to get a little wet

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.