Winning Photo Captures Nature’s Wonder and Global Spotlight

A father-son camping trip to Yellowstone National Park in September provided a picture-perfect moment for budding photographer Charlie Cooper ’23. 

“Just as the sun rose, we spotted a huge bull elk across the river so we hiked a little to a better vantage point to see it. I zoomed in as much as I could and was able to compress the image, showing all the layers in the shot,” Cooper said.

“Bull Elk on the Yellowstone River” garnered prestigious shortlist honors for Cooper in the 2020 Sony World Photography Awards in the Youth Competition category. Each month, this renowned contest selects the top ten single images by emerging photographers from around the world ages 12-19.  

Judges pick the best works based on a theme. Cooper’s focus was the Natural World & Wildlife, a subject matter that is very close to his heart. “I discovered a passion for nature photography when I was around 10 years old,” he said. “At that point I didn't have a camera, but I was always eager to take photos of nature with my phone.”

Upper school photography teacher Rachel Langosch adds, “Charlie brings a passion and curiosity to his photographic practice. He is a motivated and enthusiastic student and offers valuable feedback to his peers during our class critiques.” 

Thankfully, he has no plans to stop. “I have been a photographer since November 2017 when my aunt and uncle gifted me my first DSLR camera, and I haven't put it down since.”

SHARE Article