Thanks to the smaller image sensors in the majority of digital cameras and their incredible performance at high ISOs, technically it’s never been easier to enjoy wildlife photography. No longer do you need a heavyweight, ultra-fast lens; you can now get frame-filling images without breaking the bank – or your back.
However, to get anything more than a record shot of an animal running away, you need patience, persistence and a deep understanding of the subject. Most of us don’t have the time to devote to sitting in hide for days. But, luckily for you, we’ve found some people who do – and who end up filling their 500px wildlife portfolios with beautiful images of the natural world…
Marsel van Oosten
With a previous career spent as an Art Editor in the advertising industry, it’s unsurprising that prolific wildlife photographer Marsel van Oosten’s portfolio is rich in beautifully composed, highly commercial images of nature. We admire anyone who’s prepared to ditch a regular income for the less-than-certain world of professional photography, but Marsel’s perseverance has certainly paid off.
Will Burrard-Lucas
British wildlife pro Will Burrard-Lucas is currently spending a year in Zambia, and regularly updates his 500px pages with pictures from the region. Noted for his remote camera work, Will’s images have an intimate, in-your-face feel – although there are some fantastic examples of his more subtle approach on show, too.
Marina Cano
If you visit Pinterest often, chances are you’ve seen Marina Cano’s stunning wildlife images being shared more than once. Her sense of timing and reading of light are remarkable, but it’s in her black and white pictures that her talent really shines. Her collection of elephants dust-bathing in Amboseli are outstanding.
Charles Glatzer
Widely published and with around 30 years of professional photography under his belt, Charles Glatzer’s 500px portfolio is, unsurprisingly, stuffed end-to-end with technically brilliant pictures. This is a man who understands his subjects and knows how to capture the moment.
Alexander Safonov
A Russian-born software designer living in Asia, Alexander Safanov squeezes in the time to shoot sharks, rays and whales around the world in his spare time. It’s his thrilling shots of the sardine run in South Africa that have drawn particular acclaim though.
Andy Rouse
He might not have the biggest collection on 500px, but it’s a case of quality over quantity here. Andy’s arguably the most high-profile wildlife photographer in the UK and this small assortment of images shows why. Each shot bursts with personality and style.
David Lloyd
David prefers a ‘fine art’ approach to wildlife photography, and his pictures have clean, considered compositions. While other photographers chase gnashing teeth and ripping claws, for the most part David’s pictures from Africa have a quiet elegance.
Yves Adams
A short, but very sweet collection of creative wildlife pictures from this Belgian nature photographer. From a backlit gull to resting walruses to an ultra-tight close-up of a Dalmation pelican, each picture has been composed with skill. We guarantee there’ll be at least one picture here that will leave you inspired.
Richard Peters
Richard is a London-based wildlife photographer who’s been picking up awards and building a reputation for his strikingly composed pictures of familiar subjects. If ‘Snow Pounce‘, his sharply framed shot of a leaping fox, doesn’t press your buttons, then maybe it’s time to hang up that camera…
Greg du Toit
If you’ve been following the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition for any length of time, then South African wildlife photographer and safari guide Greg du Toit’s name should be familiar. The subjects of his pictures may be the most over-photographed in the world, but he manages to find a unique treatment for each one. Take a look at his spectacular ‘Elephant X-Factor‘ image, shot from an underground hide, if you need any further convincing…
Edwin Kats
Dutch photographer Edwin Kats focuses on the native wildlife of the Netherlands. He’s got some great behavioral shots in his collection, as well as some memorable environmental portraits.
