Tyler Smiley, a 2014 graduate of Phoenixville High School, is on his way to the final round of the global Bird Photographer of the Year competition, writes staff for The Daily Local News.

Out of the 10 photos that Smiley submitted, two of them advanced to the final round. His images included birds from in and around Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, including ospreys, herons, and screech owls. Small shorebirds known as sanderlings were the subject of the two photographs chosen.

“It is no small feat to reach this round of the competition, that’s for sure. When I entered, I don’t think I could have ever expected it, but I am extremely proud that it happened,” he said.

After high school, Smiley went to the University of South Carolina and then worked in marketing and real estate at the Delaware Beaches before he resolved to make photography his full-time job and passion in 2022. In addition to landscapes and wildlife around Delaware, he also does real estate and property photography.

The winner of the competition will be chosen in September 2024, with a grand prize of 3,000 Pounds, or around 3,793 USD.

“To say I’m grateful to be doing something I love as my career would be an understatement. Each day is more exciting than the last, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunities photography has given me,” Smiley said.

Read more about Tyler Smiley and his photographs submitted to the Bird Photographer of the Year competition at The Daily Local News.

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