A solitary elk with large antlers stands in a golden field, while a blurred herd rushes past.

1ST PLACE

Rush of the Rut, Grayson Kemp 

“I had followed this herd deep into the meadow of the Valles Caldera National Preserve before dawn, moving low through the brush to keep my presence quiet. For a long while, everything was still. Then the bull gave a herding call, and the cows surged toward him in a rush of hooves and motion. But he didn’t move. He held his ground, watching the direction they’d come from. The photograph is about that pause—the steady center inside the urgency and instinct of the rut.” —Grayson Kemp

Young deer with small antlers stands amid lush greenery in light rain. Mountains and a misty sky form a serene, natural backdrop.

2ND PLACE

In the Rain, Nancy Rice

“I shot this photo in late June near the back of my home in western Harding County. It was the second day this little mule deer buck had come by, and it seemed that he was getting used to me. He hung out nearby for a while, calmly browsing the vegetation. The rain was falling steadily, creating a nice atmosphere for the photo. As a bit of sunlight broke through the clouds, it caused the damp deer and vegetation to shine. The rain, sunlight, and buck really came together perfectly—a constellation of conditions and subject that can only be hoped for. I kept firing away at his different poses, but this image, with the misty canyons featured prominently in the background, was ultimately my favorite.” —Nancy Rice

A graceful crane with outstretched wings walks through shallow water, splashing lightly, surrounded by a flock of cranes under a soft, blue sky.

3RD PLACE

Splash Dance, Timothy Baca

“After countless weekends chasing light and motion across New Mexico wetlands, this moment finally unfolded: a Sandhill Crane caught mid-stride, wings outstretched, water splashing beneath its lifted foot. The red crown glows against soft gray feathers. It’s a portrait of grace, grit, and the quiet reward of returning again and again until nature offers something unforgettable.” —Timothy Baca

Cormorant preening its feathers with wings spread wide, set against a blurred blue background. The sunlight highlights its plumage.

HONORABLE MENTION

Peekaboo, Kelly Dunbar

“In the winter, Tingley Beach becomes a haven for waterfowl, raptors, wading birds, and other small birds. This neotropical cormorant spread his wings to dry, attempting to catch as much sun as possible; once dry, he began the meticulous process of preening his feathers.” —Kelly Dunbar

Three elk locked in an antler clash on grassy terrain, conveying tension and strength. The black and white image highlights their textured coats.

HONORABLE MENTION

Elk Ménage à Trois, Mark Krasberg

“We were driving north last December 2024 when we came across a group of six bull elk that were still interested in fighting each other after the rut had ended. At one point, one of the elk joined an already battling pair. As they fought and locked horns, the three elk gradually spun around several times. We watched the fighting for perhaps 30 minutes, but it was the three-way melee that was truly special.” —Mark Krasberg

SEE FOR YOURSELF

For the 10th consecutive year, Tularosa Basin Gallery of Photography, in Carrizozo, will host an exhibition featuring the winners. The opening weekend, January 30–February 1, includes artist appearances and refreshments. As the largest photo gallery in the state, Tularosa Basin Gallery features the work of more than 40 New Mexico photographers. The gallery is open Friday through Sunday and by appointment.