The prestigious Photography of the Year 2025 award, along with a €1000 prize, has been awarded to Thomas Vijayan from Oakville, Canada, for his deeply moving photograph "Please Spare Our Home".
In this striking image, a mature orangutan sits surrounded by the remnants of its devastated habitat, with uprooted vegetation, broken trunks and exposed earth defining the scene. Captured from a low angle, the animal’s imposing presence contrasts with the vulnerability conveyed through its posture and gaze. With arms extended and eyes lifted, the orangutan seems to confront the viewer directly, embodying both dignity and a silent plea.
The photograph goes beyond wildlife photography to become a powerful visual statement on deforestation and habitat loss. It reflects the consequences of human activity while reminding us of our shared responsibility toward the species that inhabit our planet.
This recognition further strengthens Thomas Vijayan’s presence in the contest, having been awarded Photographer of the Year in 2024, and confirms his ongoing commitment to environmental storytelling through photography.
In this striking image, a mature orangutan sits surrounded by the remnants of its devastated habitat, with uprooted vegetation, broken trunks and exposed earth defining the scene. Captured from a low angle, the animal’s imposing presence contrasts with the vulnerability conveyed through its posture and gaze. With arms extended and eyes lifted, the orangutan seems to confront the viewer directly, embodying both dignity and a silent plea.
The photograph goes beyond wildlife photography to become a powerful visual statement on deforestation and habitat loss. It reflects the consequences of human activity while reminding us of our shared responsibility toward the species that inhabit our planet.
This recognition further strengthens Thomas Vijayan’s presence in the contest, having been awarded Photographer of the Year in 2024, and confirms his ongoing commitment to environmental storytelling through photography.
