Every great photograph tells a story—but some go beyond that. They stop us in our tracks. They remind us of the beauty, vulnerability, and raw emotion found in the natural world.
That’s what the 2024 ROM Wildlife Photo Contest is all about.
Now in its 10th year, this Ontario-wide contest—inspired by the globally renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition—invites photographers of all ages and experience levels to showcase their connection to nature through the lens. And once again, this year’s entries did not disappoint.
Hosted by the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and proudly supported by Henry’s Camera, the contest continues to spotlight the remarkable talent and passion of Canadian wildlife photographers.
And the Winners Are…
This year, two photographers—one adult and one youth—stood out with images that blend technical excellence with powerful storytelling.
Sandra Nelson – Adult Category Winner
Sandra’s image, “The One That Got Away”, captures a moment of raw intensity and playful interaction between two grizzly bears on the shoreline of British Columbia. The framing, timing, and energy in the image give it an almost cinematic quality—one that tells a layered story in a single frame. It’s a photo that feels alive.
Joel Bellis – Youth Category Winner
At just 17 years old, Joel Bellis submitted a breathtaking image titled “What does the fox say?” that impressed the judges with its creativity and maturity. Their image showcases a deep appreciation for nature and an eye for light and composition that many seasoned photographers strive for. (Stay tuned for our upcoming interview, where we’ll dive into their process and inspiration.)
Both winning images are now on display as part of the ROM’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, placing these talented individuals alongside some of the world’s best wildlife photographers.
Henry’s Is Proud to Support the Next Generation of Creators
At Henry’s, we believe in the power of storytelling through photography—and we’re honoured to once again support this contest in partnership with the ROM and Sony.
Photography is about more than equipment. It’s about curiosity, patience, and the desire to capture something meaningful. Contests like this give creators of all ages a platform to not only showcase their skills, but also to connect with something larger: the preservation and celebration of our natural world.
And whether you’re just getting started with your first wildlife lens or you’re deep into a documentary project, Henry’s is here to help with the tools, advice, and community to bring your vision to life.
Coming Up Next: Exclusive Interviews with the Winners
To celebrate their incredible achievement, we’re sitting down with both winners to talk about:
- The story behind their winning shots
- What gear helped them get the shot
- Their approach to wildlife photography
- Tips for aspiring photographers
- And what this win means to them
Make sure to subscribe to the Henry’s blog and follow us on social media—you won’t want to miss these inspiring conversations.
📍 For more details on the contest and to view the winning images, visit the ROM’s official announcement page.
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