Sunbathing Cows (2014) Photograph by Andrew Lever

I discovered this scene while travelling along the coast of southern Spain and was immediately drawn to the wonderful contradiction of it. Cows standing peacefully on a sandy beach beneath a vast blue sky felt both surprising and completely natural at the same time. It was one of those rare moments that made me stop, smile, and reach for my camera.

What I love most about this photograph is the way it gently shifts our perspective. Removed from the fields and farms where we usually expect to see them, these animals become individuals rather than commodities, quietly sharing a landscape that feels more often reserved for people. The simplicity of the composition, the open sky, and the sense of calm create an image that is both uplifting and thought-provoking.

This photograph was selected as a finalist in the prestigious Hasselblad Masters 2026 competition, an honour that reflects the image's unique ability to connect with viewers through both humour and humanity.

Available as a signed and numbered limited-edition fine art print, produced to museum standards and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

"A reminder that the most memorable photographs are often found when we least expect them." — Andrew Lever

Materials used:

C Type photographic Print, Fuji Crystal Archive paper

Details:

• Photograph on Paper
• From a limited edition of 25
• Size: 101.6 x 76.2 x 0.03cm (unframed) / 101.6 x 76.2cm (actual image size)
• Signed and numbered certificate of authenticity
• Style: Photorealistic
• Subject: Animals and birds

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