A Night to Remember: Frankie Adamson Overall Photographer of the Year 2024
I wrote a version of this on a train to York, massively sleep-deprived and still overwhelmed after the previous night’s awards ceremony. Normally, I’d want a clearer head to put something so meaningful down in writing, but there’s something special about capturing this moment while it’s still fresh.
Last week on Friday January 17th at The Societies of Photographers Awards, I was honoured to win not only The Natural World - Wild Animals Photographer of the Year 2024 and, to my utter disbelief, Overall Photographer of the Year 2024. In the entire 2024 monthly competition there were 6,481 submissions across 28 categories and ‘Kiss of Death’ came out on top. Mindblowing.
The judges comments included:
“Showcasing exceptional skill, storytelling, and execution, this striking and unique image quickly became a standout and sparked lively discussions among the judges.”
The Story Behind ‘Kiss of Death’
The awards were for my image of hyena feasting on the remains of a hippo carcass, Kiss of Death, taken in the Masai Mara in May 2024. This photograph represents everything I love about wildlife photography — grit, drama, and the beauty of nature’s raw power.
The story starts with a chance sighting of a fresh hippo carcass while heading to photograph a World Bee Day event at a local wildlife college. I shouted, “dead hippo!” (as one does), my driver pulled over, I made a mental note, and returned the next morning after discussion with a couple of other guides for what turned into two subsequent days of intense observation and documentation.
On the third morning, we arrived in darkness, drawn by the sounds of hyenas and lions clashing. What unfolded before me was the most extraordinary sight I’ve ever witnessed: Yaya, a breakaway lioness from the Marsh Pride, standing her ground against over 30 hyenas. As the sun rose, the chaos reached its peak, but the magic happened when Yaya left. I repositioned to capture the hyenas around the remains of the carcass, and then it happened — a lone hyena locked eyes with my lens, creating the bone-chilling moment you see in Kiss of Death.
Here are a selection of other images captured the day before and the morning of ‘Kiss of Death’:
Luck vs. Skill in Wildlife Photography
While luck plays a role in moments like the hyena’s glance, so much more goes into creating an image like this:
Spotting the carcass while not specifically out on a game drive.
Understanding animal behaviour and anticipating what would happen over the next few days.
Returning to the site repeatedly, even when conditions weren’t ideal.
Trusting my guides who shared my dedication to early mornings and the chance of amazing sightings.
Using my skills and experience to adapt to the scene’s challenges — less-than-ideal light, fast-moving action, and the need to preserve the gritty reality of the moment.
Wildlife photography isn’t just about luck; it’s about preparation, persistence, and knowing how to make the most of every situation.
Endless Gratitude
I couldn’t have achieved this alone. A huge thank-you to Jessica McGovern, whose mentorship has shaped me not just as a photographer but as a businesswoman and human being. You’ve taught me to thrive in any weather —literal and metaphorical — and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
To Tracey Lund, who I was too terrified to talk to properly when I came here a couple of years ago. Thank you for believing in Kiss of Death and championing it at every opportunity. Your encouragement means the world.
To the entire Societies team, the judges, and everyone involved in the event, thank you for putting together such an incredible celebration of photography.
Thank you to everyone who came up to me to say congratulations last night - I’m sorry I didn’t speak to more people, but I have massive social anxiety, which goes a long way toward explaining why I’m more comfortable around hyena ripping a hippo to pieces than at a mass gathering of some of the most inspiring photographic talent in the world. It’s not you - it’s 100% me. I’ll work on it, I promise.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Winning these awards is a dream come true, but it’s also a reminder of why I love what I do. Wildlife photography — and dog photography — are about celebrating life in all its forms, capturing stories that are raw, real, and unforgettable.
Here’s to 2025 and all the stories yet to be told.
Want to see more of my work or discuss your own photography project?
I might not be out in the wilderness at the moment but I am available for dog portrait sessions in the North of England. Visit the sessions page for more information about how you can have me photograph your dog.