Photographer Mary Schrader won the top honor in the Animal Portrait category of the prestigious World Nature Photography Awards with her image 'd wonder'. The award-winning photo captures a rare and intimate moment: a young gorilla pausing in quiet fascination as a bright yellow/orange butterfly hovers before it.
With a background in theater costume and scenic design, Schrader brings a storyteller's sensitivity to wildlife photography, using detail, light, and composition to draw viewers into the moment. The striking contrast between delicate wings, hazel eyes, and dark fur creates a visually powerful scene of curiosity and connection.
To preserve the rich detail in the gorilla's features and the fine structure of the butterfly's wings, she used a mirrorless camera featuring a 45.7MP full-frame sensor, paired with a pro telephoto lens described as 'probably the best 70-200mm zoom in the world. Ever.'
Tech details: Gear: Nikon Z9 + Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S. Exposure: 1/400sec, f/4, ISO.
Story behind the still: 'It was a day defined by quiet connections. Beneath the lush canopy of Bwindi, I observed a young female gorilla gently nestled against the protective bulk of a silverback. The atmosphere was serene until a vibrant butterfly appeared, fluttering gently through the air. Captivated, the young gorilla's eyes widened, and a beautiful interaction unfolded. I held my breath, hoping the butterfly would drift closer. My heart raced quietly, aware of how rare these moments are. This photograph captures not just the gorilla's gentle curiosity but also a brief, beautiful moment where two creatures paused, bound by wonder and discovery.'