Mateusz Piesiak's Image

Mateusz Piesiak (Poland) carefully considered camera angles to produce a series of intimate photographs exploring the behaviour of birds.

Three curious mute swans peered down, nipping at Mateusz, who was lying on his back holding his camera above him. Usually this would have been a popular spot to feed the mute swans, but on this freezing afternoon, with the temperature hovering at -10°C, Mateusz was the only person on the riverbank.

The river runs through Mateusz's home city of Wrocław, Poland, and the mute swans often gather along the banks in expectation of being fed. In order to discourage people from feeding the swans bread, which can cause digestive problems, suitable free food, including seeds, corn and carrots, is provided – to help the swans through the harsh winters.