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Submissions open for 2027 Bisley Nature Reserve Calendar

The calendar, now in its seventh year, is produced entirely from photographs taken within the Bisley Nature Reserve.

The Friends of Bisley Nature Reserve (FoBNR) is calling on photographers to submit images for the 2027 edition of their annual fundraising calendar.

The calendar, now in its seventh year, is produced entirely from photographs taken within the Bisley Nature Reserve.

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It showcases the area’s wildlife, birds, landscapes, flora, insects and natural beauty.

FoBNR chairperson Peter West said the calendar has grown into an important community project that reflects both conservation progress and local pride.

“Every image tells part of the story of a reserve that has been brought back from years of neglect through the efforts of volunteers and the support of the local community,” West said.

Call for entries opens for 2027 edition

Submissions for the 2027 calendar are now open, with photographers encouraged to contribute both professional and amateur images captured inside the reserve.

FoBNR said it is welcoming entries from experienced wildlife photographers, camera club members, birders, nature enthusiasts and even cellphone photographers who capture moments while walking through the reserve.

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In addition to the main feature image for each month, the 2027 calendar will also include supporting photographs, allowing more contributors to be featured.

The only requirement is that all photographs must have been taken within the Bisley Nature Reserve.

What photographers can submit

Suitable subject matter includes wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala and nyala, as well as birds, landscapes, flora, insects and other small creatures.

Photographs capturing conservation activities, volunteer work, natural behaviour and visitors enjoying the reserve are also encouraged.

Images should preferably be submitted in landscape format.

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Organisers also advise against excessive zooming, heavy editing, cropping or resizing, as original files allow for better print quality.

Selection process and benefits

All submissions will be reviewed by calendar compiler Roger O’Neill, an experienced wildlife photographer and birder who has overseen the project since its inception.

Photographers whose work is selected will receive full photographic credit in the calendar, a complimentary copy of the 2027 edition, and the opportunity to contribute to a widely distributed conservation initiative.

The FoBNR calendar is often purchased as a festive gift and provides a platform for showcasing local photographic talent while raising awareness of the reserve.

Submission deadline

Photographers are urged to submit entries by mid-September to meet production deadlines.

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West encouraged residents to revisit their existing photo collections or visit the reserve to capture new images for submission.

“The next calendar may already be waiting in your camera,” West said.

For submissions or enquiries, photographers can contact Roger O’Neill via email at [email protected] or send images via WeTransfer.

WhatsApp submissions can be sent to +44 7378 741332.

Kayla Shaw

Kayla Shaw is a junior reporter and digital assistant at The Witness. She is an all-rounder with a passion for reporting on the victories and struggles in the conservation and environmental battles. She has been with The Witness for over a year. One of her proudest coverages was a giraffe rescue in the Bisley Nature Reserve where the animal needed to have a snare removed. Kayla holds a degree in Bachelor of Arts at Varsity College and specialised in English and Communication Sciences.

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