Luminar Bug Photography Awards 2020

Beautiful macro photos that capture invertebrates in captivating detail.

Invertebrates have a crucial role in keeping the world’s ecosystem in balance, but their populations have seen a steady decline over the years. However, the new Luminar Bug Photography Awards 2020 shine a light on their world. Established in a collaboration with UK-based invertebrate charity Buglife, the awards bring awareness to the plight of these tiny animals; a plight inextricably linked to humanity’s future. The gorgeous macro photographs capture colorful characters many of us don’t get to see closely. The annual event also raised funds for the charity’s conservation efforts. “It is often said we only save the things we know and love. Sadly this seldom applies to the bugs without whom life as we know it would come to an end. These awards will hopefully bring people closer to the beauty and value of our multi-legged friends,” said Matt Shardlow, Buglife CEO.

The judging panel included invertebrates photographer Levon Biss, Buglife President Germaine Greer, and TV presenter and naturalist Nick Baker. They had to pick both winners from a total of over 5,000 images sent from all over the world. In the first edition of the Luminar awards, Saudi Arabian photographer Mofeed Abu Shalwa won the grand prize, the Luminar Bug Photographer of the Year 2020 award, as well as £2,500 in cash along with prizes worth £2,000. 17-year-old Jamie Spensley from Solihull, UK, won the Luminar Young Bug Photographer of the Year 2020 award; he also took home prizes worth over £1,200. Images courtesy of Luminar Bug Photography Awards 2020.