Africam’s Virtual Wildlife Photography Competition: March 2026 Winner!

Posted in: Competitions

Congratulations to this Month’s Winner! 

March’s Photo Competition invited the Africam community to explore the beauty of repetition, texture, and symmetry in the natural world. With the theme “Patterns in Nature,” subscribers were challenged to look a little closer – finding rhythm in landscapes, light, and life itself.

We’re delighted to announce that Leslie Knechtel is the winner of our March Photo Competition with her stunning image titled The Last Rays of Sunlight, captured at Jack’s Camp.

Why This Photo Stood Out

At first glance, this image feels beautifully simple – but the longer you look, the more its patterns begin to reveal themselves. The silhouetted treeline stretches across the horizon in a delicate, almost rhythmic sequence, while the fading light creates striking natural rays that fan out across the sky. These soft beams echo a subtle, repeating pattern that draws the eye upward, contrasting perfectly with the still, reflective water below.

The composition is particularly strong. The horizon sits low in the frame, allowing the sky, and those incredible light rays, to take centre stage. The balance between light and dark is handled with precision, with the foreground in deep shadow acting as a natural frame for the brighter elements. The reflection in the water adds another layer of visual interest, quietly mirroring the scene without overpowering it.

Technically, it’s a beautifully executed shot. The exposure is carefully controlled to preserve the gradient of colours in the sky, from warm sunset tones to cooler blues, while still capturing the definition of the light rays. The sharp silhouettes of the trees provide contrast and clarity, anchoring the image and giving it a strong sense of place.

Leslie’s photograph is a perfect interpretation of the theme – subtle, striking, and thoughtfully composed. It’s a reminder that patterns in nature aren’t always bold or obvious. Sometimes, they’re found in fleeting moments of golden light.

Read more on how to enter our photo competition here.