Super pictures! Prestigious recognition for two Kilkenny photographers

Two local photographers have had caused to celebrate in recent days, following some prestigious recognition.

Seamus Costelloe, a founder member of Kilkenny Photographic Society, achieved his second Fellowship with the Irish Photographic Federation at the National Awards and Distinction sitting recently held in Mullingar Arts Centre. Distinctions are recognised as the most prestigious in the photographic world, and the fellowship is the highest level of the IPF distinctions.

Seamus was required to submit a body of work consisting of 20 images and a written statement of intent. He achieved his fellowship with fashion photography.

Suzanne Behan's picture of swallows

Meanwhile, Kilkenny Photographer Suzanne Behan has also received some noteworthy honours.

 “Delighted to receive silver and gold medals in the recent An Oige Photography Competition with my wildlife images - Silver Medal for my image of a White Tailed Sea Eagle and Gold for my images of swallows," she said.

The competition was made even more special for Suzanne when she was awarded IPF Gold Medal for Overall Best Image of the competition for her Swallows photograph. 

Along with these awards, Suzanne has just recently been shortlisted for a competition run by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Her image of a Great Northern Gannet and Gull was taken on the Wexford Coast.

“Nature photography is my favourite genre of photography” says Suzanne. "It allows me to highlight different species and issues concerning habitat loss, biodiversity decline in Ireland."