Family outing at Lough Caum in Kerry inspired award-winning lakeside photo
Photographer and upholsterer by day, Raivis Rodenbikers, (42) from Tralee, told the Irish Independent: 'We were on a family day out and this was the first time my now two-year-old daughter had visited Glentenassig woods with us.
'The view just spoke to me. I love this photo because it captures what I saw in that moment and the tranquility of the place.' The father-of-two is also an experienced photographer, who's covered weddings, christenings and portrait shoots. 'Ireland's nature has been my biggest inspiration,' Mr Rodenbikers said.
He's now hopeful his son and daughter will follow in his footsteps and find an affinity for 'seeing the beauty around us'.
Esteemed environmentalist, wildlife expert and author, Éanna Ní Lamhna, paid tribute to the winner and other entrants, for helping the viewer to 'imagine ourselves there too'.
The competition was a 'celebration of the personal connections people have with their favourite waterbodies', Ms Ní Lamhna said.
Photographers had shared photos of the places 'they love - the rivers, lakes, and wetlands that speak to their hearts and they responded with images full of beauty, atmosphere, and emotion', she added.
'Each photograph told a story of appreciation and belonging. The winning images capture not only technical excellence but also a real sense of place, you can feel the love and familiarity behind the lens.'
Runner up Sean Nikken, was recognised for his ethereal winter scene at the River Nore in Inistioge, Co Kilkenny. The image displays Inistioge Bridge lying over the water, as a frosty mist hangs above.
Fellow runner up, Brigid Mullooly's beautiful photo of a father and son standing at the water's edge, as the sun sets on the River Shannon, in Co Longford, also prompts peaceful family moments.
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And Cheryl Poole's image of the River Bann in Co Wexford, presents the perfect summer scene to the viewer.
The photography competition was run as part of the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) World Water Day celebrations, working on behalf of 31 local authorities, coordinating efforts for good water quality across Ireland.
In total, 375 photos were entered into the competition. Entries were shortlisted by an internal panel and the winners were selected by an external judge.
Anthony Coleman, Director of Services at LAWPRO, said: 'We'd like to thank all the participants in the competition and in particular congratulate our overall winner and three runners-up. The photos showcased Ireland's inland waterways, lakes and coastal waters and communicated a sense of beauty, tranquillity and wellbeing in people's favourite waterside places.'
The winner has been awarded a €500 voucher for Powerscourt Hotel Resort and Spa in Co Wicklow and a framed print of his winning photo.
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