Photographers shoot zoo wildlife
Photographers are lining up animals in their sights – but all in the name of conservation.
Wildlife photographer Trevor Penfold aims to get the conversation on conservation started by shooting animals at Hamilton Zoo.
Trevor offers workshops at the zoo, where he teaches photographers how to “shoot” wildlife.
“There is a need for more conservation, worldwide. If people come to the workshops and are more interested in wildlife, the more chance they might want to protect it. People need to start talking about it.”
The self-taught photographer got interested in wildlife photography when he went on an African safari with wife Jenny, for their honeymoon. They moved to New Zealand seven years ago and he has specialised in wildlife photography since.
His first book reached stores two years ago. Visions of Nature, NZ’s Wild in the West” is sold in 40 independent book stores across New Zealand and has just been picked up by Whitcoulls.
“I spent a lot of time getting my first book together before teaching, so people could look at my style before coming along.”
Through his book he has donated money to organizations such as Forest and Bird.
“Locals didn’t realize all these species lived in their area. My book was an eye opener and made people start talking.”
Trevor says the ethics behind the Hamilton Zoo are very good as they help with conservation.
“I like the feel of Hamilton Zoo. I organize it all, rent their education room, and then spend time going around the zoo for a practical workshop; it also helps bring money into the zoo.”
People can expect two workshops at the zoo, the first is a practical version of an introduction to photography, learning how to get better photos with equipment you already have. The second gives more guidelines on what and how to shoot.
“When you are given a brief it’s much harder and makes people think about it more.”
He says he wants his students to be the best they can be. “If we all took photos the way we were taught we would all be looking at the same photos.”
Trevor has just had five images shortlisted for the 2012 ANZANG Nature Photography competition.
“Thank god I’ve got a wife that’s behind me and supports me. She loves a lot of my work, not all of it, but I don’t expect her to.”
