Updated: 22 Jan 2025
My passion for wildlife has been a constant source of inspiration, especially in recent years as I have turned my focus to documenting nature through my photography and videography.
These platforms have allowed me to share my passion for the natural world with others, while also enhancing my own development as a self-taught naturalist.
My curiosity about the species I photograph has led me to study their behaviours, habitats and life cycles, transforming me from a mere observer into an active participant in understanding and sharing the wonders of nature with others.
However, the term “naturalist” can often be misunderstood.
When one hears the word, they might imagine someone with an academic title or a deep interest in environmental conservation. In fact, the definition of a naturalist is quite simple – It is someone who is an expert or student of natural history.
Natural history refers to the study of plants, animals and other organisms, primarily through observation. This broad field can also include the study of geology, the earth and its processes.
While naturalists are often associated with professions such as biologists, ecologists, and zoologists, the term is not restricted to those with any formal scientific qualifications.
“Naturalism can be embraced by anyone—whether a child, retiree or professional — who possesses a love for nature and a desire to understand and protect it”
Being a naturalist is about more than just knowing the names of species. It is about understanding their behaviours, life histories and the role they have within the ecosystem.
For example, a naturalist would not simply identify a bird but would be able to tell you about its migratory patterns, feeding habits and breeding cycles.
The level of engagement requires curiosity, patience and a deep respect for the subject. It is through this lens that photographers, can enhance their craft and deepen their connection to the world around them.
Photographers can become better naturalists by shifting their focus from just merely taking pictures to truly observing their subjects.
Photography, when combined with an inquisitive mindset becomes a powerful tool for learning. You do not need to travel to far-flung destinations like Africa or the Amazon to observe fascinating wildlife. In fact, nature is all around us, and often just outside your back door.
Take for instance my experience with a lesser spotted woodpecker that frequented my garden last summer. For weeks, I watched him visit the birdfeeder multiple times each day. As I observed his feeding habits, I became aware of the distinct preferences he exhibited—he would only eat suet, ignoring peanuts and other seeds.
His impatient, often aggressive nature came to the forefront when he was hungry, as he would scare off other smaller birds from the feeder.
By taking numerous close-up photos and videos, I was able to document his behaviour and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating creature.
It was a real privilege to observe “Woody“, and I was disheartened when he eventually moved to another nesting site in late September.
Through my photography, I not only captured his image but also his essence—his habits, his timing and his unique personality.
To become a true naturalist, one must approach the world with an insatiable curiosity. Naturalists often ask questions, observe and seek answers. They are often keen to know why a certain plant blooms at a specific time, where migrating birds go during the winter or how particular geological features are formed.
The pursuit of knowledge through observation, whether in the field or at home, is a core commitment of naturalism. Figures such as Sir David Attenborough, Steve Backshall, Joel Sartore and Paul Nicklin have demonstrated how this passion for observation can be used to educate and inspire others, as they document the incredible diversity of life on our planet.
Being a photographic naturalist requires patience, perseverance and a contemplative nature. All these named individuals are observant, perceptive and capable of enduring the elements—be it wind, rain, or snow—because they understand that true discoveries often come to those who are willing to wait and watch.
A naturalist’s work is often systematic and organised, with records and notes playing an important role in capturing data for future reference. Photographers who wish to embrace naturalism would do well to keep detailed field notes, take photographs regularly and perhaps even make sketches to capture the finer details of what they observe.
At the most basic level, becoming a naturalist requires only curiosity and a willingness to observe the world around you.
However, there are tools that can aid in your journey. A camera, of course, is indispensable for capturing moments in time, but binoculars, a nature guide, and even a laptop for research are equally useful. Nature journals which allow you to record thoughts, observations, and sketches can be invaluable tools for reflection and learning.
When back at home, access to reference books, online resources and nature guides can further enhance your understanding of the species and environments you’ve encountered.
In conclusion, I would encourage everyone—whether an amateur photographer, a casual birdwatcher or a seasoned environmentalist—to become a naturalist in their own different ways.
By simply slowing down and observing, you can gain a much deeper appreciation for the intricate beauty of the world around you.
You don’t need to venture into remote rainforests or vast savannahs to engage with nature.
Parks, gardens and local nature reserves are more than sufficient to spark curiosity and inspire discovery.
The more you pay attention to the smaller details, such as the habits of birds in your garden or the flowers that bloom with each season, the more you will come to realise how interconnected everything truly is.
So, take a moment, pick up your camera and head outside. Whether it’s a fleeting glimpse of a butterfly, the songs of birds overhead or the patterns of leaves on a tree, you might just be surprised by what you discover when you look closely.
Thanks for your time,
Mark Brion
Linked Pages: About Mark Brion | Professional Photographer