A TALENTED photographer from Droitwich has scooped a top national award for a photograph of a seal who appears to be laughing.

Julie Hunt snapped the characterful sea creature during a boat trip to the Farne Islands this year.

But she would never have guessed it would win her a highly commended prize, out of 1,500 entrants, at the inaugural Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards in November.

Mrs Hunt, 50, said: "It was a complete shock and surprise, but such a huge achievement to finally receive some worldwide recognition of my wildlife photography.

"All it took was a split second to capture that moment. It takes quick thinking, skill and having the correct camera settings to nail that special shot. It really did look like the seal was laughing.

"I'm a bird and wildlife photographer at heart. That's where I'm happiest at, being surrounded by nature and the environment around me in all kinds of weather conditions."


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The photographer, who is a member of the Droitwich Arts Network, is now holding a display of her work at the Button Tree in High Street.

A total of 11 pieces are on show, detailing Mrs Hunt's passion for photographing all sorts of subjects.

She said: "I've always had a keen interest in photography since a young age, but I became a serious amateur photographer about six years ago with my first DSLR camera.

"It's an interesting and expensive hobby, but I get to meet some lovely people along the way and have made some amazing friends through it. I enjoy making people happy with the images I take."

And Mrs Hunt is quick to praise the Droitwich Arts Network, which helps artists to display their work around town in various shops.

She said: "I think it's a great group to be a part of this network. It opens up opportunities for artists and photographers to gain some local recognition for their work."

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards was launched this year by wildlife photographer Paul Joynson-Hicks in partnership with the Born Free Foundation.