50 Famous Wildlife Photographers to Follow in 2023

This guide will provide you with a curated list of famous wildlife photographers who are masters in capturing the wild through a unique perspective.

All the famous wildlife photographers you’ll see below have navigated both the artistic and natural terrains, so expect this guide to be a source of inspiration and learning.

More than just capturing wildlife as they see it, they create a compelling story and use their work to truly advocate for their subjects.

Expect to see diverse techniques being applied to wildlife photography, and by following some of these, you will see the natural world through a new enhanced lens.

Whether you’re a professional wildlife photographer expanding your references booklet or simply someone who admires the beauty of nature, this guide has some of the best wildlife photographers listed for you.

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50 Famous Wildlife Photographers You Should Follow

Ami Vitale

Ami Vitale is a National Geographic photographer, celebrated for her impactful images that highlight the human-nature connection.

Her work, capturing endangered species and remote cultures, reflects a deep commitment to conservation and tells a compelling story of the natural world.

Amy Gulick

Amy Gulick is an award-winning wildlife photographer known for her dedication to environmental conservation.

Through her lens, she captures the raw beauty of ecosystems, creating a visual narrative that inspires understanding and respect for the natural world.

Her work is an ode to nature’s profound elegance.

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Angela Scott

Angela Scott is an iconic wildlife photographer, especially when capturing the raw essence of the animal kingdom.

Her work, often set in Africa’s wild landscapes, resonates with emotion and beauty, reflecting a deep passion for conservation and a unique understanding of wildlife behavior.

Art Wolfe

Art Wolfe is one of the most famous wildlife photographers whose work encapsulates the beauty of nature and wildlife.

With a masterful eye, he captures the essence and complexity of life on Earth, turning fleeting moments into magnificent images that evoke awe and respect for the natural world.

Bence Máté

Bence Máté, a European wildlife photographer, excels in creating extraordinary images that reveal the hidden lives of animals.

Known for his innovative techniques and patience, his photographs provide rare insights into wildlife, showcasing their behavior and beauty in their natural habitats.

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Brent Stirton

Brent Stirton is a photographer recognized for his powerful images that often address conservation and environmental issues.

His work goes beyond mere aesthetics, reflecting a profound commitment to storytelling and advocacy, illuminating the urgent challenges faced by our planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Brian Skerry

Brian Skerry is a notable underwater photographer, acclaimed for his mesmerizing images of marine wildlife hence being featured on National Geographic a number of times.

Through his lens, he brings to life the hidden wonders of oceans, emphasizing conservation and the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems.

His work inspires awe and appreciation for underwater environments.

Charlie Hamilton James

Charlie Hamilton James is a renowned BBC wildlife photographer, celebrated for his exquisite work focusing on rivers, freshwater ecosystems, and African wildlife.

With an empathetic approach, he showcases the intrinsic value of nature, linking wildlife to broader environmental themes and inspiring conservation through compelling visual narratives.

Chris Packham

Chris Packham is an artist, photographer, and naturalist known for his moving images that summon the natural world’s beauty and intricacy.

His work reflects a lifelong passion for wildlife, fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of nature’s delicate balance.

Christian Ziegler

Christian Ziegler is a photographer who specializes in capturing the vibrant biodiversity of tropical ecosystems.

His photographs offer unique insights into the relationships between flora and fauna, creating an intimate visual connection to nature and fostering awareness and admiration for these complex environments.

Cristina Mittermeier

Cristina Mittermeier is a marine biologist and one of the most famous wildlife photographers out there, often portrayed in National Geographic, and celebrated for her profound connection to marine environments.

Through her captivating images, she portrays the fragile beauty of oceans and coastal cultures.

Her work is a powerful blend of art and activism, driving awareness and inspiring love for wildlife conservation.

Daniel Beltrá

Daniel Beltrá is a celebrated photographer, known for his striking aerial perspectives of the Earth’s landscapes and wildlife.

Through his conservation photography, he highlights the environmental impact of human activity on natural ecosystems.

His work is a compelling visual testament to the urgency of conservation and responsible stewardship.

David Doubilet

David Doubilet is a master of underwater photography, a genius in capturing the mystique and beauty of aquatic life across the globe.

His work, celebrated for its creativity and technical prowess, has been published by National Geographic many times, bringing the hidden wonders of ocean life and freshwater habitats to the surface, inspiring awe and profound respect for the underwater world.

Dhritiman Mukherjee

Dhritiman Mukherjee is one of India’s most famous photographers, acclaimed for his images that explore the behavior and beauty of rare species and endangered wildlife.

His work transcends mere documentation, offering a glimpse into the wild’s unseen world and reflecting a deep commitment to conservation efforts and awareness.

Emanuele Biggi

Emanuele Biggi is an Italian photographer and biologist famous for his macro photography of insects and small reptiles.

His close-up shots reveal a hidden world of detail and complexity, creating an intimate connection between viewers and often-overlooked creatures.

Florian Schulz

Florian Schulz is a famous photographer whose breathtaking images often focus on the Arctic and other remote ecosystems.

Renowned for his conservation-centric approach, his work has been published by National Geographic many times.

Schulz’s photography aims to inspire a deeper connection to the natural world and underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts.

Frans Lanting

Frans Lanting has many awards as a photographer whose work has been featured extensively in National Geographic magazine.

Known for his innovative approach to capturing nature, Lanting’s images portray wildlife and landscapes in a way that fosters empathy and understanding.

His iconic images have significantly shaped how we perceive and connect with the natural habitat.

Ingo Arndt

Ingo Arndt is highly acclaimed for his wildlife photography, known for his meticulous attention to detail and his passion for capturing wild animals’ behavior.

His stunning wildlife photos, often capturing large animal gatherings or architectural wonders built by tiny creatures, highlight the fascinating intricacies of the natural world.

Jaime Rojo

Jaime Rojo is a noted Spanish wildlife photographer and conservationist.

His stunning images often focus on biodiversity hotspots and threatened ecosystems, capturing both their fragility and their splendor.

Rojo’s work is not merely visual; it’s a passionate call to awareness and action, reflecting his dedication to conservation and environmental advocacy.

Jayanth Sharma

Jayanth Sharma is an acclaimed Indian photographer and entrepreneur famous for his vibrant and evocative images of India’s diverse ecosystems.

His photography captures the essence of the country’s unique wildlife, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into rarely-seen behaviors and habitats.

Joan de la Malla

Joan de la Malla is a Spanish photographer known for his wildlife photography focused on conservation and animal welfare.

Through his powerful images, he tells stories that bridge the gap between humans and animals, highlighting the intrinsic value and fragility of natural habitats.

De la Malla’s wildlife photography is an artistic plea for empathy, understanding, and responsible stewardship of our planet.

Jo-Anne McArthur

Jo-Anne McArthur is a wildlife photojournalist and wildlife photographer, known for her dedication to animal rights and conservation.

Her impactful nature photography often sheds light on the relationship between humans and animals, especially in contexts like factory farming and animal captivity.

McArthur’s photojournalist-specializing work goes beyond mere documentation, serving as a powerful call for empathy, compassion, and change in how we view and treat non-human beings.

Joel Sartore

Joel Sartore is a famous photographer renowned for his commitment to wildlife conservation.

He is the founder of the Photo Ark project, an ambitious effort to document endangered species around the world.

His images, often published in National Geographic, are more than mere photographs; they are a compelling call to action to preserve the rich biodiversity of our planet.

Sartore’s work stands as a visual testament to raise awareness of the beauty and fragility of life on Earth.

Junji Takasago

Junji Takasago is one of Japan’s best wildlife photographers, celebrated for his ability to capture the subtleties and elegance of nature.

Known for his ethereal underwater images and vibrant landscapes, Takasago’s work reflects a profound understanding of natural light and movement.

His photography provides viewers with a unique glimpse into the beauty and mystery of the world’s most remote and untouched regions, contributing to a global appreciation of our planet’s diverse ecosystems.

Kalyan Varma

Kalyan Varma is an Indian photographer celebrated for his vibrant wildlife photography.

With a strong focus on conservation, his animal photography bridges the gap between art and activism, providing insightful glimpses into the natural world and inspiring respect for its wonders.

Klaus Nigge

Klaus Nigge is a German photographer known for his captivating images of birds, especially raptors.

With patience and precision, he captures intimate moments, revealing the characters and behaviors of these magnificent creatures.

Nigge’s work reflects a deep understanding of his subjects and contributes to a global appreciation for avian life.

Konsta Punkka

Konsta Punkka, a Finnish wildlife photographer, has gained recognition for his ability to capture close and personal shots of wildlife.

Often referred to as the “Squirrel Whisperer,” his images reflect a gentle approach to nature and a profound connection with his subjects.

Punkka’s work inspires awe and a deeper appreciation for the often-overlooked details of the natural world.

Laurent Ballesta

Laurent Ballesta is a French underwater photographer acclaimed for his groundbreaking explorations and photography of the deep ocean.

His images unravel the mysteries of the underwater world, revealing unseen beauty and scientific phenomena.

Ballesta’s work stands at the intersection of art, science, and adventure, raising awareness for the importance of ocean conservation.

Latika Nath

Latika Nath is an esteemed wildlife photographer and conservationist.

With a Ph.D. in tiger conservation, her images go beyond mere visual appeal, serving as powerful narratives for wildlife protection.

Her photography captures the essence of India’s wilderness, reflecting her passion and commitment to the conservation of endangered species.

Margot Raggett

Margot Raggett is a renowned British environmental photographer and the driving force behind the “Remembering Wildlife” charity book series.

Her passion for conservation is evident in her striking images of Africa’s endangered species.

Raggett’s work transcends mere photography, serving as a way to raise awareness and action in wildlife protection.

Marsel van Oosten

Marsel van Oosten is a Dutch professional photographer known for his exceptional landscape and wildlife photography.

With a keen eye for composition and light, his images capture the beauty of nature.

Van Oosten’s work is a blend of artistic expression and technical mastery, conveying the splendor of the natural world while inspiring admiration and respect for the environment.

Michael Aw

Michael Aw is an Australian underwater photographer and conservationist known for his visual storytelling of marine life.

Focusing on the world’s oceans, his work brings to light the beauty and fragility of underwater ecosystems.

Aw’s photography is more than visual art; it’s a call to action for marine conservation, engaging audiences with the splendor of the sea and the urgent need to protect it.

Michael Nichols

Michael Nichols is a famous nature photographer focusing on wild animals and nature.

His decades-long career has been marked by innovative techniques and a commitment to honest representation of the natural world.

A contributing photographer to National Geographic magazine, Nichols’s work captures the wild’s raw beauty, offering viewers a glimpse into untouched landscapes and untamed animals.

Michael Poliza

Michael Poliza is a famous wildlife photographer known for his impressive portfolio photography, particularly in Africa.

With an eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the natural environment, Poliza’s images capture the majesty and intricacy of animals in their natural habitats.

His photography provides viewers with a unique and breathtaking perspective on wildlife, encouraging a deeper connection to nature and the creatures that inhabit it.

Moose Peterson

Moose Peterson is an American photographer and educator known for his deep passion for nature and the environment.

His photography, often capturing North America’s wild landscapes and native creatures, is marked by a commitment to conservation and education.

Through workshops and publications, Peterson shares his knowledge and love for photography, encouraging others to engage with and protect the natural world.

Nick Brandt

Nick Brandt is a passionate conservationist and one of the most famous wildlife photographers whose work primarily focuses on the wildlife of East Africa.

His haunting and beautiful black-and-white images are more than just wildlife photography; they are a profound and often disturbing commentary on the disappearing natural world.

Brandt’s illustrious career in conservation has led him to establish the Big Life Foundation, which focuses on protecting wildlife in Africa.

Paul Nicklen

Paul Nicklen is a marine biologist and probably one of the most famous wildlife photographers who has earned international acclaim for his stunning and impactful images of polar regions and marine wildlife.

With a keen eye for both the beauty and fragility of the Earth’s icy frontiers, Nicklen’s work on the seven continents reflects a deep commitment to environmental conservation.

Rathika Ramasamy

Rathika Ramasamy is an Indian photographer known for her striking images of birds and native wildlife.

With keen attention to detail and a passion for conservation, she brings India’s rich biodiversity to life, inspiring appreciation and protection of the natural world.

Richard Bernabe

Richard Bernabe is respected as one of the best wildlife photographers celebrated for his evocative images of animals and landscapes.

His work captures the essence of nature’s beauty and the intricate relationships between wildlife and their habitats, inviting viewers to connect with the wild world.

Sandesh Kadur

Sandesh Kadur, an Indian wildlife photographer and filmmaker, captures the essence of Asia’s diverse ecosystems.

With a unique storytelling approach, he sheds light on rare and endangered species, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich biodiversity and the need for its conservation.

Shivang Mehta

Shivang Mehta, an Indian wildlife photographer, masterfully captures India’s wildlife in its natural splendor.

With an eye for unique perspectives, his imagery reveals the hidden lives of animals, inviting viewers to explore the untamed beauty of the subcontinent’s diverse ecosystems.

Stefano Unterthiner

Stefano Unterthiner, an Italian wildlife photographer and biologist, combines his scientific background with artistic flair to create captivating images of animals.

His work offers intimate insights into wildlife behavior and conservation, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.

Sudhir Shivaram

Sudhir Shivaram, an accomplished Indian wildlife photographer, captures the essence of India’s vibrant wildlife.

With an artist’s eye and conservationist’s heart, his photography celebrates the country’s biodiversity while advocating for its preservation, inspiring a profound connection to nature.

Sunjoy Monga

Sunjoy Monga, an Indian wildlife photographer, brings India’s diverse wildlife to life through his lens.

His captivating images reveal the intricate beauty of the subcontinent’s creatures and habitats, showcasing his deep passion for conservation and appreciation of nature’s wonders.

Thomas D. Mangelsen

Thomas D. Mangelsen is a distinguished American wildlife photographer, known for his evocative images of North America’s creatures and landscapes.

His work captures the wild’s essence, conveying a sense of awe and respect for nature’s grandeur.

Thomas P. Peschak

Thomas P. Peschak is a renowned photographer hailing from South Africa.

His compelling images of marine life serve as a powerful bridge between art and science, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for ocean ecosystems and their conservation.

Thomas Vijayan

Thomas Vijayan, one of the most famous professional wildlife photographers in India, captures the enchanting beauty of animals and ecosystems.

With a focus on intricate details and vibrant compositions, his images transport viewers to the heart of nature, celebrating its diversity and nurturing a connection to the wild.

Tim Laman

Tim Laman is one of the most accomplished American wildlife photographers and biologists.

With a deep appreciation for biodiversity and a keen eye for detail, his images reveal the complexity and beauty of nature, fostering admiration and understanding for Earth’s diverse ecosystems.

Varun Aditya

Varun Aditya, one of the most unique wildlife photographers in India, skillfully captures the charm of India’s biodiversity.

His compelling imagery showcases the vibrant colors and behaviors of native species, inviting viewers to appreciate and conserve the country’s rich natural heritage.

Will Burrard-Lucas

Will Burrard-Lucas is a British wildlife photographer and engineer.

His innovative camera traps have revolutionized wildlife photography, capturing candid images of elusive creatures.

Burrard-Lucas’s work blends technology and artistry, providing a unique perspective on animal behavior and conservation.

Will Nicholls

Will Nicholls one of greats Britain’s wildlife photographers, immerses viewers in the wonders of nature.

His captivating images capture the essence of wildlife in their habitats, fostering a deep connection to the natural world and inspiring conservation awareness.