As a professional photographer, I usually photograph people. But I’m drawn to photographing birds and animals despite the unpredictable nature of wildlife photography.
My passion for ecology (as chairman of Knowle Park Trust) adds a new dimension to these wildlife photography missions, and there’s no better place for it than Knepp Wilding in West Sussex.
Recently, I visited Knepp and set myself the challenge of photographing the “Knepp Big Five”—the White Stork, Longhorn cattle, Exmoor ponies, Tamworth pigs, and Red Deer—all within a single visit.
This journey tested my skills and patience in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
The Knepp Safari Challenge
If you’ve never heard of Knepp, I hope the video below offers a good introduction. This rewilding project has transformed former farmland into a thriving natural habitat.
My challenge to capture all five of these magnificent species in a single visit seemed almost impossible (you’ll need to watch the video to find out how I got on!).
Here are five practical tips from my experience that can help you if you attempt some wildlife photography.
Plan Your Route: Research where each species is most likely to be found before setting out. At Knepp, knowing the habitats of the different animals helped me focus my efforts. White Storks often nest in tall trees or on platforms, while Tamworth pigs forage in woodland areas.
Use the Right Gear: Wildlife photography requires the right equipment. A camera with a fast shutter speed and a good zoom lens is essential. I used a telephoto lens for this trip to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Be Patient and Observant: Wildlife photography demands patience. Spend time observing the animals’ behaviour from a distance before attempting to capture the perfect shot.
Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a respectful distance from the animals. This ensures their safety and yours. At Knepp, the animals roam freely, and avoiding disrupting their natural behaviours is crucial. Using a zoom lens helps keep that distance while still getting detailed shots.
Adapt to Changing Conditions: The weather and light can change rapidly. Be ready to adjust your camera settings on the fly. Overcast skies at Knepp provided soft, diffused lighting ideal for capturing the textures of the various species I found.
The Rewarding Hunt
Despite the challenges, hunting for the Knepp Big Five was incredibly rewarding. My highlight for this visit was the Tamworth Pig and her two piglets walking right up to me as I led in the grass.
What’s Next?
Wildlife photography continues to be a passion that provides a welcome change from my work photographing people. But what would you like me to photograph next?
Should I explore another rewilding project (perhaps the Wilder Blean Bison Project), or try some urban street photography?
Share your thoughts in the video’s comments, and I’ll head out in the wild (or not so wild) with my cameras to capture another adventure.
