Animal images taken by talented youngsters have been shortlisted for the RSPCA’s photography competition and the winner will be decided by votes cast online by members of the public.  

Alfie Woodfine, aged six, from Berkshire, has been shortlisted with his image of his dog Petal snoozing in a pile of her favourite soft toys.

Alfie explained that he decided to pile up all her favourite toys on her bed and before he knew it, she had settled in the middle of them and fallen asleep.

Alfie is the youngest to be shortlisted in this year’s People's Choice category with his image titled ‘I Spy With My Little Eye’.

In December last year, the overall winners of the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards 2023 were announced after being judged by a panel of photographic experts including RSPCA president Chris Packham and industry professionals. 

Part two of the competition, the People’s Choice Award, has now lapsed. A special online poll enabled people to pick their winning photo from a selection of images that entered the Mobile Phone and Devices category featuring three age groups of Under 12s, 12-15s and 16-18 year olds; as well as from the Pet Personalities and Pet Portrait categories.

RSPCA photographer and awards judge Andrew Forsyth said: “We love this part of the awards as it gives the public the chance to get involved and pick their favourite photo. We’ve got some funny, sweet and stunning photos shortlisted and we’re excited to share them.

“The photos shortlisted for the People’s Choice Award this year showcase some incredibly feel-good images and a range of animals from pets, farm animals to insects.”

The winner of the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards People’s Choice category received £100 worth of Amazon vouchers and an RSPCA Young Photographer Awards trophy.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the RSPCA and as it celebrates such an important milestone, the charity is preparing for this year’s Young Photographer Awards which will launch on Tuesday May 7 and is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Andrew added: “We’d urge all budding young photographers to please keep an eye out for the opening of submissions to the competition this year.

“Reaching our 200th-year is a significant achievement and events like the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards - which shows not only young people’s outstanding photography skills but also a deep love and respect for the animal kingdom - makes us incredibly hopeful that every animal will be protected and cared for over the next 200 years as well.”