UAE-based wildlife photographer Lynn Emery has been named a finalist in the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2026 for a perfectly timed image of two little owls photographed in Dubai’s Al Qudra desert.
Dubai has made its mark on one of the world’s most entertaining wildlife photography competitions, with Lynn Emery selected among the finalists for the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2026.
Her shortlisted photograph, titled “Two Birds One Vision,” captures two little owls standing closely together in the Al Qudra Desert, creating the illusion of a single unusual face.
Perfect timing in the Dubai desert
The humour in Emery’s photograph comes entirely from timing and perspective.
One owl appears focused on the sunset while the other looks directly towards the photographer, with their heads overlapping to produce a striking and amusing visual effect.
Emery is a UAE-based wildlife photographer with previous recognition in international photography competitions, including a runner-up finish in the wildlife category at the Hamdan International Photography Award in 2016.
Record-breaking year for the awards
The 2026 competition received more than 10,000 entries from 112 countries, the highest number in its history.
Organisers selected 40 individual finalists, alongside three under-16 finalists, four portfolio finalists and nine video finalists.
The competition was founded in 2015 and uses humorous wildlife imagery to encourage greater interest in conservation. This year, it is again working with the Born Free Foundation.
No AI or digital manipulation allowed
That makes Emery’s Al Qudra photograph especially compelling, as its humour comes entirely from the natural positioning of the two owls.
The overall winner and category winners are scheduled to be announced in London on December 8, 2026.
Impact to expect
Emery’s selection gives Dubai’s wildlife photography community greater international visibility while also highlighting Al Qudra’s importance as a habitat and photography destination beyond the city’s urban landscape.
