Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a worldwide image competition that showcases ecological research through photography. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos from researchers worldwide at different career stages. These images capture animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaged in ecological research, and various natural scenes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), won the research in action category with his image titled “Intertidal education.” Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, secured the “protecting our planet” category with his photo titled “A bridge between past and present.”
According to Brennan, images play a crucial role in building public trust in environmental education and ecological research. The winning photo “Intertidal education” was captured during Brennan’s supervision of undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B., showcasing a moment of curiosity on their faces against the backdrop of the full moon.
Allen Tian’s winning image, “A bridge between past and present,” combines 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, illustrating the impact of human activities on ecosystems. Tian believes that such visuals help magnify the impact of science, particularly in conservation efforts.
Photographers emphasize that images are instrumental in fostering natural empathy and connecting people to various environments indirectly. The competition featured a range of captivating images, including those depicting unique ecological interactions and environmental conservation efforts.
Overall, the competition highlighted the significance of visual storytelling in conveying the importance of ecological research and the beauty of natural ecosystems. Through their lens, photographers aim to inspire greater appreciation and conservation of the natural world.
