The Wild Life

Heather Angel got her start as a biologist photographing whales and has become one of the leading nature photographers of the past quarter-century, communicating her enthusiasm for the natural world through her writing, workshops and lectures

By Mark Edward Harris

Published October 1, 2007
Updated October 14, 2016

British photographer Heather Angel has been one of the most influential nature photographers for the past 25 years. Known throughout the world for her ability to supply world-class wildlife photography of almost any animal one can think of, Angel also has taught generations about her craft through writing, lectures and workshops, including the annual Nikon and Kew Gardens photo workshops, plus many books about photography. She holds an honorary doctorate from Bath University and a special professorship position at Nottingham University. Yet rather than rest on her long list of laurels, Angel, now in her 60s, roams the world with state-of-the-art digital equipment. OP was able to catch up with her as she was wrapping up an assignment in China.

To read this On Location article, become a Member.

Become an Outdoor Photographer Member to access this On Location Article, plus techniques, inspiration and equipment reviews from the pros!

Featured Articles

From Controlling Light To Traveling Light

Handling Reflections • Are Tripods Obsolete? • Filters For Lens Protection • Choosing A Macro Lens • Travel Kits

Raccoon photo taken with Nikon Z 7.

Hands On With Nikon Z

First impressions of Nikon’s new full-frame mirrorless system in the field, from wildlife and landscape photography perspectives

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.

Photographing foxes, a vixen and her kit

Photographing Foxes

Learn the habits and habitats of these readily accessible wildlife subjects to capture their lively interactions.

From My Perspective

From My Perspective

Considering perspective for more engaging photographs

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.

10 Tips For Better Autofocus In Nature Photography

10 Tips For Better Autofocus In Nature Photography

It’s easy to take autofocus for granted. I know, I do. This technology is amazing—your camera has to figure out what should be sharp in a scene, focus the lens and take the picture, all in a fraction of a second.

Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road

Parks For The People

George Grant toiled in obscurity for nearly three decades as the first official photographer of the National Park Service. Ren and Helen Davis want to make sure his story isn’t lost to history.

To access this content, you must purchase Outdoor Photographer Membership.