Wildlife Viewing and the Patience of Photography

The Galápagos Islands are a living sanctuary where wildlife has evolved in remarkable isolation. Giant tortoises move through ancient volcanic landscapes, marine iguanas bask on black lava rocks, and the surrounding waters reveal an extraordinary diversity of marine life.

I visited the islands with my partner on a 14 day journey, choosing one of the more extensive itineraries available, with visits to several islands and a well-organised programme of wildlife excursions. The wildlife itself was extraordinary, unique, remarkably adapted and often surprisingly unconcerned by our presence.

The experience, however, made me realise the difference between seeing wildlife and photographing wildlife.

The excursions were well guided and professionally organised, but each visit was limited in time. We travelled as a group, and when the schedule dictated that we move on, the opportunity ended, even when I felt that something more might happen if I could simply remain there.

For a photographer, patience is often everything. I may wait for an animal to change position, for two subjects to interact, for the light to improve or for a completely unexpected moment to develop. The photograph I am looking for cannot always be fitted into a timetable.

That became my main frustration in the Galápagos. The islands offered extraordinary subjects, but I did not always have the freedom to wait for the photograph I wanted. I had to follow the group, follow the schedule and accept that an emerging opportunity would sometimes be left behind.

I am nevertheless very glad I made the journey. The wildlife is unique, the landscapes extraordinary and the experience itself unforgettable.

My experience in the Seychelles was somewhat similar. The islands are undeniably beautiful, with spectacular beaches, turquoise water and remarkable natural scenery. Yet again, I found that the experience did not offer me the freedom and patience I seek when photographing nature.

But after thirty years of travelling and photographing in remote nature, I know what I am looking for: time, freedom, observation and the possibility of waiting for nature to decide when the moment is right.

For me, the Galápagos was therefore a destination I am grateful to have experienced, but not one I feel the need to repeat.

It taught me something valuable: a destination can be exceptional for wildlife viewing while still not being the right environment for the way I photograph.