WA photographer David Ashley was named a finalist in the Merrell photo competition for his photo of a Yallingup sunset.
Mr Ashley has taken many images around the region which have been used by Tourism WA and circulated around the world.
He took the Yallingup sunset photo two years ago, and said on the day it was really blowing and he did not want to get to close to the waves which were crashing over the coastline.
“Two other photographers came and setup right in front of me – they were right in my picture – I thought you have to be joking,” he said.
“They have actually given the image scale because they are in that image now and they show the enormity of the sky, and the sky was just amazing.”
Mr Ashley sends out a lot of his work hoping to receive recognition, he had forgotten he entered the competition, when he received a call from Merrell Austraila telling him he was one of 12 finalists.
“I thought that was great - then they told me about the prize money of $20,00 – I was a bit overwhelmed and it is all a bit surreal,” he said.
To win the prize money Mr Ashley will compete against 11 other finalists, with voting open to the public.
Merrell Australia marketing manager Jodi Woodford said photography was a natural fit for the hiking brand.
“Aussies are known for their love of the outdoors and when they head out to explore, are often armed with a camera to capture the spectacular display that mother nature turns on.” she said.
“With this longstanding relationship between hiking and photography in mind, we wanted to bring to life a competition that encouraged people to get outside and enjoy the diverse Australian outdoors.
To vote in the Merrell photo competition, please visit https://merrellaustralia.shortstack.com/7L9N6V, voters will also go in a weekly draw to win a pair of Merrell shoes.
