People / africa
Swapping African bush for urban jungle
Photography by Neil Aldridge
Bristol photojournalist Neil Aldridge has been named European Wildlife Photographer of the Year. He spoke to Pamela Parkes about capturing the moment and his life in the field.
For award-winning photojournalist, writer, wildlife guide and conservationist Neil Aldridge, there is no such thing as a typical day in the office.
is needed now More than ever
A professional photographer for the past 6 years, he has worked in Africa, Europe and the UK capturing unique and spectacular wildlife moments. His photos have appeared in numerous nature magazines and he has published two books, Underdogs and Face to Face with Wild Africa.
The Bristol-based photographer has a clutch of awards which are testament to his skills with a camera and he has just won the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2014 with his picture of stampeding antelope entitled Living Rock Art.
He spoke to Pamela Parkes about capturing the moment, life in the field and why Bristol is the perfect place to be a wildlife photographer.
On the award-winning photograph
“It was a photo that I very nearly missed. I saw the group of Blesbok antelope running over the plains of South Africa’s Kariega Game Reserve. I was using the vehicle to hide myself from them but, as I stepped down, I put my foot in a hole and collapsed in a heap. Luckily the tripod, with the camera still on top, was planted in the ground. As the antelope came towards me, I managed to struggle up and, from a sitting position, panned with them and shot a couple of frames.
“I think it really captures the essence and movement of the animals. Some people may think it’s too artistic for their liking, but I knew there was something special about it. Growing up in South Africa and knowing the history of the bush men, this picture represented to me the animals they painted in caves and shelters.
On being a photographer
“I wouldn’t say it’s glamorous. It can be very exciting and that’s what I like. You get to witness incredible moments and experiences, but it is very hard work both in the field and back at the desk.
“It can be difficult because so many people are trying to be a photographer and you have to make yourself stand out – you need patience and be thick skinned!
On living in Bristol
“I was born in the north of England and moved to South Africa when I was 8 years old.
“I’m now living in Bristol. It’s an amazing place for a wildlife photographer – my agent is here, the Nature Picture Library (the world’s largest wildlife photo agency) is based here, there are also the conservation charities and BBC Wildlife magazine who I do a lot of work for.”
A percentage of the sales from Neil’s new book – Face to Face with Wild Africa – will go towards rhino conservation.
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
