Down to the essence

From Lensbaby optics to binoculars and sandals, 27 photographers talk to CUPOTY co-founder Tracy Calder about their go-to gear for prize-winning close-up pictures

10 things you can shoot and create this month, from toadstools and hockey to medieval mansions

Each round, we shine a spotlight on a selection of excellent entries from the many camera clubs that enter APOY

Here are the top ten images uploaded to Photocrowd from Round Three, Close-ups and Details, with comments by the AP team and our guest judge

The APOY judges choose their favourite images that didn’t make the top ten of our Close-ups & Details category

Photographing birds doesn’t have to be all about filling frames, writes Rob Read…