RSPCA Young Photographer of the Year launched

Wednesday, 30th May 2012

The RSPCA has launched its Young Photographer of the Year (YPA) award and is on the lookout for people under the age of 18 to submit snaps of animals.

Those wishing to enter can take a cheeky picture of their family pet or go outdoors and capture wildlife.

Last year, the charity had over 8,000 entries, including pictures of a pouting goldfish and Canadian bears.

Andrew Forsyth, chief photographer for the RSPCA, said: "We were blown away by the images entered last year.

"It doesn't matter if the images are of birds, bees or budgies."

Last year’s winner was Will Nicholls, 17, from Hexham, who took a picture of a rare red squirrel in some woodland.

He said: "My tips for this year’s entrants are to take as many pictures as you can, as this will help you develop a personal style."

The overall winner will be treated to a three day photography break with wildlife photographer Danny Green. Other winners and Runners-up will receive Olympus camera kits.

The competition will be judged by photography professionals and TV wildlife expert Chris Packham.

YPA has been running for 20 years and was originally set up to celebrate the RSPCA's 150th royal anniversary.