1 Eric Browett UK 20pts

Nikon D500, 80-400mm at 130mm, 1/8000sec at f/5, ISO 1600

A superb action shot of a hugely tricky subject. Sometimes, the impact of a king sher’s splash can obscure the important bit – the bird itself – but here, the droplets enhance the overall effect. Everything is beautifully balanced, from the bird’s body being parallel with the water and the unfortunate sh not obscuring anything, to the jewel-like colours jumping out against the neutral background. Wonderful timing and excellent perseverance.