JUDITH Conning of Killabakh is Australian Photography and Digital Magazine's 2014 Nature Photographer of the Year.
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Judith won the award for her impressive polar bear photos that featured on the cover of the Manning River Times on December 24, 2014.
Judith took the photos when she visited Kaktovik, Alaska.
There were four categories in the competition - landscape, monochrome, portrait and nature. Each required a portfolio of six images.
"I entered the landscape and monochrome sections and three portfolios in the nature category and this one, "Polar Bear Journey" was the successful one," said Judith.
The photos show the bears in various states from simply playing, to poses with a much deeper message.
"The bears are waiting for the ice to freeze, so they can go out and hunt seals. That's where the big concern is with climate change in the Arctic the sea ice is freezing later most years and the bears have to wait longer for a decent meal."
Judith found out about her win when a friend posted the list on Facebook.
"I was hopeful that the bears would do well but absolutely stunned when I heard the news. I walked around with a smile on my face all day!"
"I've managed a 'highly commended' with several international competitions in 2014 and will have two photos in exhibitions in London and one in Moscow but this is my first major winner."
Winning the prize has further cemented Judith's love of photography.
"Photography is an amazing pastime - you start to really see the world with new eyes. There's just as much of interest and beauty in our local area so don't despair if travel is out of the question."
Her tips for budding photographers is to get out there and start shooting.
"So many people have a camera, whether it be a phone, a compact or a DSLR, just get out there and take photos and experiment. Join a camera club and subscribe to some magazines to build your skills.
"I would love to set up photography workshops so people can learn to get the best out of whatever camera they have."
However, polar bears will continue to be on Judith's agenda.
"If you want to know more about polar bears and their challenges from climate change check out www.polarbearsinternational.com," Judith added.
