Africa has always attracted those with an eye for beauty – the submissions for Africa’s Photographer of the Year (APOTY) are a testament to this! Striking surrounds, undulating landscapes, a plethora of exciting wildlife and a true melting pot of cultures make Africa an ideal location for artists and appreciators alike. Today, we present five wildlife photographers we believe capture the beauty of this unique continent and hope they inspire more incredible APOTY submissions!
Patience and timing are so key for the perfect photo.
Photo Credit: Yaron Schmid
Frans Lanting
This native Dutchman is considered one of the best animal photographers of our time and has won several international awards – including the prestigious BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year – to back up this title. From the Amazon to the Atlantic, Frans Lanting has not only had a vast variety of animals in front of his lens but knows how to capture them with the highest artistic ability. Frans has published several books, each received with praise from esteemed critics and eager readers alike.
Follow the leader
Photo Credit: Kirsty Mackay
Russell McLaughlin
Growing up in the South African bush, photographer and filmmaker Russell McLaughlin has turned his passion for nature and animals into a successful career, working as a videographer for international broadcasters such as National Geographic and Animal Planet. A passionate conservationist, he also works closely with WildAid – an organisation committed to fighting the illegal trafficking of animals. This year, we are honoured to have Russell as part of our esteemed jury for Africa’s Photographer of the Year 2018.
Russell getting up close and personal with a leopard fascinated by his camera.
Photo Credit: Russell McLaughlin
James Suter
A trained guide, photographer and videographer, James Suter developed his love for the outdoors at a young age. After gaining experience in the world-renowned Singita Game Reserve, James is now a private photographic guide, passionate conservationist and co-owner of Black Bean Productions, a small film production company based in Cape Town. Although we’re not sure how he’s squeezing it in, we are very excited to have him as part of our jury for this year’s APOTY competition.
Portrait of a Wild Dog in the Sabi Sand
Photo Credit: James Suter
Suzi Eszterhas
Californian wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhas specialises in the photography of baby animals and families. Her images have been published in, and featured on the cover of, over 100 publications such as BBC Wildlife, National Geographic Kids, and the Smithsonian. Suzi has won many awards and competitions including the National Wildlife Contest, Environmental Photographer of the Year as well as several others. She has also published several books and shares her knowledge, and access to exclusive locations, on her wildlife photography tours.
Sleeping cheetah and cub in Kenya
Photo Credit: Suzi Eszterhas
Nicole Eddy
Blogger, photographer and all-around nature enthusiast, Cape Town-born Nicole Eddy began travelling Africa with her parents at a young age. She also spent a year exploring Europe and shares her exciting adventures on her blog as well as various social networks with readers from all over the world. Each of her enchanting stories are illustrated by her unique images and filled with delightful anecdotes of her experiences. Together with our other renowned judges, Nicole forms part of the esteemed APOTY jury for 2018.
Elephants splashing about
Photo Credit: Nicole Eddy
We hope these accomplished artists have inspired you and have made you grab your camera and head out to photograph our spectacular African continent. Don’t forget to send us all your incredible images for our current category ‘Roaring Lions and Big Cats’ and stand a chance to win one of our category prizes or the unforgettable trip for two worth $32,000!
Find out more information about our Africa’s Photographer of the Year competition on our website!