Photographer seals fourth win in Beaulieu River photo competition

The stunning picture of a seal and pup has won the Beaulieu River photo competition for the fourth time for keen amateur photographer Maggie White. Maggie, who has been taking pictures for over 15 years, said:

“I was overjoyed to receive the news. It’s been a difficult six months for me, having had a nasty accident last summer when I lost some fingers on my hand. In fact, it was the day after taking this shot. Fortunately, I have found photography very therapeutic. I belong to the Beaulieu Camera Group, to which I must give my thanks for their encouragement and support after having had my accident. I love taking landscape and wildlife photographs especially in the New Forest and my project at the moment is taking images of birds in flight.”

One of Maggie’s pictures of birds in flight was also highly commended, together with a sunrise shot by Bill MacFarlane and wildlife picture by Zoe Morrall.

Maggie’s winning entry has been featured in the 2026 Beaulieu River Tide Times & Information booklet and she will be presented with her £200 prize at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour.

Lord Montagu, who chose the winner and runners-up from anonymous entries, said:

“Gratitude to Maggie for seeing the photographic potential of our seal population and being there at just the right moment to take the shot which is this year’s winner. The two seals could not have posed better if they were able to take instruction! I am sure this picture will bring a smile to everyone who opens this year’s book.”

The annual Beaulieu River photo competition is open to all amateur photographers who are inspired to capture the unique qualities of the river, which has been kept special by the custodianship of the Montagu family for over four centuries.

The 2026 competition is now open and entries can be sent, with full contact details, to photo@beaulieu.co.uk. For details and T&Cs click here. It is open to mooring holders, locals and visitors to the picturesque harbourside village of Buckler’s Hard.

At the gateway to the New Forest National Park, the Beaulieu River and surrounding area provide habitats for more than 200 species of birdlife. Encouraging visitors’ environmentally-friendly behaviour and raising the awareness of good practice is an essential part of keeping it a special place for the future.