2026 Alpha Awards Photo Competition
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How do you prepare for a photographic journey into some of the world’s most extreme environments? How do you truly capture the scale, beauty, and spirit of the wildlife and landscapes you encounter? Our panel of experts will share their experiences and offer insights that bring real answers to these questions.
Hosted by Nick Fraser from Sony Australia and featuring an exclusive panel of Sony advocates and renowned nature and wildlife photographers Brett Lobwein, Clyde Vaughn, and Jay Evans; we will also be joined by adventurer Michael Kozok from Paddy Pallin. Together, they will share captivating stories and images from their photographic expeditions to the poles, while also showcasing the essential gear needed to tackle the extreme conditions.
Following the presentations, an open Q&A session will invite lively discussion, offering a rare opportunity to dive deeper into the stories, challenges, and creative processes behind these extraordinary polar expeditions.
Guests will enjoy not only enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere complete with light bites and beverages throughout the night; but also get the chance to get hands on with some the equipment used on these expeditions as well as engage in some active demos. There will also be the opportunity to browse our gallery which will be filled with a selection of images from our speakers.
This event will be an evening of engagement, and fun - giving everyone the chance to mingle not only with the experts but also with fellow photography enthusiasts.
There will be door prizes consisting of adventure gear from Paddy Pallin and Teds Cameras, 12-month subscriptions to Australian Geographic and discounts on Sony Alpha and GM products.
Brett Lobwein is a Sydney-based wildlife photographer focused on ocean environments, with work spanning regions from the tropics to the polar seas. His images have been featured globally, including in National Geographic, and his video work will appear in the upcoming season of the BBC series Deadly Sixty.
Clyde Vaughan is a photographer and filmmaker whose work spans nearly every genre. Driven by a passion for the outdoors and conservation, he’s travelled widely - capturing powerful stories in remote environments. His broad experience fuels his dedication to teaching.
Jay Evans is a Blue Mountains–based nature, landscape, and astro photographer who captures Australia’s world‑heritage wilderness and star‑filled skies. He combines environmental storytelling with natural light and leads tours and workshops nationwide as a licensed commercial operator and accredited Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park Guide.
Nick Fraser is the NSW Digital Imaging Specialist for Sony Australia. With extensive experience as a director, photographer, and filmmaker, he has worked from the Yukon to Papua New Guinea and Mongolia, documenting remote environments and communities. His images appear internationally, including in major publications such as Forbes and BBC.
Michael Kozok is an adventurer who has travelled to over 150 countries and crossed every inhabited continent without flying. Focusing on human‑powered expeditions, he has trekked South America, crossed Australia unmotorized, and tackled deserts, rivers, jungles, and remote regions. He now coordinates outdoor events and travel presentations for Paddy Pallin.