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Iceland – Arctic Fox Delight

17/7/2022

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Back in March I led the inaugural tours for Wildlife Worldwide to Hornstrandir Nature reserve in the remote north-west of Iceland. Staying at the delightful Kviar Lodge, our sole focus here was the blue morph Arctic fox on our Arctic Fox Photography tour. Coming face-to-face with an Arctic fox has long been on my wishlist, particularly after seeing them in the wilds of Svalbard many years ago.  

The lodge is situated on an uninhabited peninsular, over 40 km from the nearest settlement and only accessible by boat. Our voyage from Ísafjörður was not the smoothest, but on arrival a fox was running along the high snow bank above to greet us. It doesn’t really get any better for a wildlife photographer.  

I led back-to-back trips in this spectacular landscape and enjoyed some of the very best photography opportunities I have enjoyed for many years. My clients were spoiled with all sorts of weather conditions and countless moments to capture some breathtaking imagery.  
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Here is just a taster of what we enjoyed …  
Arctic fox in blizzard, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox in blizzard, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
As you can see, the first day was pretty wild with incredibly strong winds and a few snow storms. Although the photography was challenging, it was also particularly rewarding. 
Blue morph Arctic fox with spindrift, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Playful blue morph Arctic fox, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
The weather was very changeable, as you would expect in Iceland during March, but that enabled us to photograph the different foxes in a host of different conditions. The photography was exceptional. I was able to use my phone to capture some wonderful images, that's how obliging they were ... 
Kviar Lodge, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Photographer with blue morph Arctic fox, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox taken on my mobile phone, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
We were also treated to a marvellous display of Aurora borealis and all my first group were able to capture some stunning imagery. 
Aurora borealis, Kviar Lodge, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
But of course the primary focus was the Arctic foxes. Here is a selection of images from the second of the two departures - we really were incredibly lucky with the weather and the cooperative wildlife. 
Blue morph Arctic fox at sunset, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox portrait, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox in the snow, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic foxes fighting, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox sleeping, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret Charman
Blue morph Arctic fox on a snow bank, Hornstrandir, Iceland by Bret CharmanPicture
I hope the photos above have whetted your appetite - if you would like to join me in Iceland to photograph these charming foxes, there is still space remaining in March 2023. You can register your interest here. 
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South Luangwa’s Wilderness Rediscovered

24/4/2022

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Sorry I have been quiet again for the first quarter of the year. It has been a crazy few months and I am only just getting the time to sit back and think about the past 5-6 months. Back in November I was in a state of shock as I was actually able to enjoy leading my first African photo safari in nearly 2 years.

Wildlife Worldwide were finally able to run our unique South Luangwa Photo Safari and it was a pleasure to be at the helm for two separate trips. Our first trip was based at one of my regular haunts – Flatdogs Camp – where I had the pleasure of my good friend and guide Bwalya looking after us. We had an exceptional week with Bwalya, although the leopard didn’t quite play ball, and were treated to some excellent encounters with the African wild dogs and countless lions.

The second week was based at the delightful Mfuwe Lodge and we had some exquisite sightings of leopard and the wild dogs once more. The rains had started to fall intermittently, but it really didn’t disturb our game drives and huge thanks must go to our excellent guides .

One of the great things about South Luangwa is that you never really know what to expect and from one week to the next, you will likely see something completely different.  Here is just a taster of what we saw … 
Male lion, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African elephant chasing African wild dogs, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Squabbling pied kingfishers, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Red-billed oxpeckers, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Lucy the leopard, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African wild dog,  South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African leopard in a spotlight, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African fish eagle, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard with slow shutter speed, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Male African lion, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard cub, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African wild dogs being harassed by an African elephant, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
If you would like to join me in Zambia's South Luangwa with Wildlife Worldwide, there are still some spaces available. I will be joined by fellow photographer Sean Weekly, and I will be back for more in 2023. 
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Red Deer Rut in the New Forest

31/10/2021

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This year, with travel options limited, I was asked once again by Wildife Worldwide to lead dedicated deer photography workshops in the heart of the New Forest. With permission from Forestry England, I led a number of workshops alongside Ben Sutcliffe. 

We had some crazy weather, but some great deer encounters with the red deer during the rut. Unlike the deer parks of London, these deer are completely wild and it takes patience to slowly make an approach. The key thing is to ensure that you don't sneak up on them and that they know where you are, while also being aware of the wind direction.

Anyway, here are just a few shots from my time in the forest. 
Red deer stag roaring in the morning mist, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stags before the fight, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stags prepare for battle, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stags battle in the mist, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stags stare at one another in the mist, New Forest by Bret Charman
After some incredible misty action, we were treated to incredible evening action too. It is fabulous to witness this behaviour and enjoy the most remarkable lighting - combine that with a mist and you can't really get it any better. 
Red deer stag backlit in the evening sun, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stag breathing hard, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer trotting through the heather, New Forest by Bret Charman
Red deer stag portrait, New Forest by Bret Charman
It was an absolute honour to lead a number of workshops and I was delighted for the clients who got some brilliant images. 

We hope to run some more workshops in 2022, but it will depend on my availability. Please get in touch if you want to find out more. 
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A Slovenian Escape

25/10/2021

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Well what can I say about the past 18 months - quite simply it has been pretty tough. I have been unable to lead any overseas trips since the start of the pandemic and only led a limited number of UK-based workshops. However, back in September, I headed off to the stunning hills and forests of Slovenia - one of my favourite corners of Europe. 

The Dinaric Alps are a wildlife photographer's paradise, home to over 800 European brown bears and a myriad of other species. I spent 7-days in the wonderful hides which I use when leading my tours to Slovenia, building up a great little portfolio of images. In the time I was there, I photographed over 10 different bears, including a number of mothers and their cubs.

I can't wait to get back out in the field and leading tours once more. over the next 12 months.
Brown bear, beech forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear siblings, beech forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear on rock, beech forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
As you can see from these images, the surroundings for my sightings were exceptional and I was blessed with exceptional weather.
Brown bear cub in Karst limestone, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear portrait, beech forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear, beech forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear portrait, Dinaric Alps, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear mother and cubs in forest, Dinaric Alps, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
You can join me in Slovenia next year for the opportunity to photograph the Dinaric Alps' population of brown bear. 
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MONTPHOTO 2021 - Birds Category Winnner

3/10/2021

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I am sorry I have been so quiet this year. As I am sure you can understand, the past 18 months has been incredibly tough and there has been a lot of change. I took an extended break away from social media and updating my blog.

However I am absolutely delighted to announce that I have WON the Birds category in the prestigious MONTPHOTO photography competition. My image 'A Beakful' focuses on a puffin in the verdant vegetation of Skomer Island with a beak crammed with fish. This is a massive honour and something I am incredibly proud of - the competition was exceptional, with some huge names among the winners. 

The excellent Will Burrard-Lucas won the Mammals and Overall prizes, while I must make a special mention of good friend Kevin Morgans who has had an incredible year in numerous competitions. He had an image and a portfolio entry feature as a Highly Commended. 

I must pass on my congratulations to all the other winners including Jaime Culebras, Marc Graf and Imre Potyo.

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'A Beakful' - Montphoto 2021 - Birds Winner

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Deer of the New Forest

2/3/2021

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With Covid-19 restrictions still in place across the world during the late autumn, there was only one thing to do - explore the ancient landscapes of the New Forest in search of deer. This former royal hunting ground is home to wild herds of red and fallow deer (as well as sika around the Bealieu area) and if you know where to look you can capture some stunning imagery. 

Deer are notoriously skittish and it is essential to keep your distance and let the deer come to you. If you try and follow deer, you will only spook them. 

​Most of these images were taken when I was on my own, but a couple were taken while leading workshops for Wildlife Worldwide. 
Red deer stag, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
PictureRed deer stag in pines, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
Red deer stag in heather, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
Red deer stag on a heath, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
There are only around 150 red deer in the New Forest and their population is strictly controlled by the national park authority, so it is always worth keeping your eyes peeled for the fallow deer if the reds manage to elude you. 
Leucistic fallow deer with young, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
Red deer in the depths of the forest, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
Red deer stag on a frosty heath, New Forest National Park by Bret Charman
If you would like to join me on a dedicated deer photography workshop in 2021, please contact me for more information.
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Autumn in Richmond Park

31/10/2020

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Richmond Park is one of the jewels in the Royal Parks' crown, a wildlife haven in the heart of one of Europe's largest conurbations. Red deer, little owls, badgers and even ring-necked parakeets. I spent numerous weekends journeying up the A3 early to photograph the red deer rut, meeting friends and enjoying the cool autumnal air - the photographic opportunities were excellent. 
Red deer stag with bracken in his antlers, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
Jackdaw perched on branch, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
Ring-necked parakeet hanging out of tree hollow, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
As you can see, the photographic highlights are not only limited to the red deer that call the park home. Above you can see an image of a jackdaw, arguably one of the UK's most beautiful corvids and a ring-necked parakeet (an introduced species from the Indian subcontinent). 
A red deer picks up a little too much bracken with its antlers, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
A red deer stag stands proudly with an impressive head dress, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
The deer stags are well known for thrashing their antlers in the bracken, and other undergrowth, when they are pumped full of testosterone. In this case, he took it all a little far and then struggled to see where he was going. This individual stag was not one of the dominant males, and he will probably have to wait another year or two to reach his absolute prime. 
Red deer stag at sunrise, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
Red deer steaming at sun rise, Richmond parknd
A red deer stag breathes out in the cool morning air at sunrise, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
As you can see from the images above, the red deer often stand proudly as the sun rises over the horizon, seemingly basking in the soft morning light. 
Dominant red deer stag calling to assert dominance, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
Red deer stag bellowing in the bracken, Richmond Park (Bret Charman)
It was a great few weeks enjoying the wilder side of London and as long as you avoid the crowds, you can expect to see some spectacular behaviour. Next year, if I get to lead my planned tours (if Covid allows), then I won't be able to photograph this annual spectacle. 
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Red Squirrels of the Cairngorms

27/9/2020

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After lockdown eased here in the UK, I went for a little adventure to the Scottish highlands. This stunning mountainous realm is home to a range of wildlife I don't find in Hampshire, including the red squirrel, crested tit and capercaillae. I spent a day in a hide on the Rothiemurchus Estate, built by Neil McIntyre, photographing the gorgeous red squirrels in the stunning heather-filled Caledonian forest. 
Red squirrel feeding with heather in foreground, Cairngorms (Bret Charman)
Red squirrel portrait on tree stump with heather, Cairngorms (Bret Charman)
Jumping red squirrel, Cairngorms National Park (Bret Charman)
Although I only spent the one day with the squirrels, I was easily able to capture a wide range of imagery, of which these are just a few.
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Roe Deer 2020

3/9/2020

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Well who expected 2020 to be like it has? It has been a year of change, uncertainty and anxiety for many, but the natural world goes on and I have tried to spend as much time as possible out photographing the roe deer once again. 

I may have not been able to lead my overseas photography tours for Wildlife Worldwide, but I just love being in the field with wildlife and capturing images. I hope you enjoy looking through this year's imagery of my beloved roe deer.
Roe deer female in spring grasses, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
Roe deer in sunlit grasses, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
This year I struggled to find any males to start with, instead focusing on a number of different females who had hidden their young around the estate I photograph on. 
Female roe deer in field of barley, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
Roe deer portrait in field of barley, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
Young roe deer in field of wheat, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
As summer intensified and the crops turned to the golden browns, the roe deer rut was in full swing and allowed me the opportunity to photograph roe bucks in their prime. 
Roe deer buck in golden barley, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck in a field of barley, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck in arable field margin, Hampshire (Bret Charman)
I am looking forward to 2021 to hopefully spend some time with the roe deer once again. They have become a big part of my life and probably what I am best known for within the UK.
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Rural Fox Cubs

21/7/2020

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For many years I have struggled to find a family of rural foxes which I was able to photograph. Most rural foxes, and rightly so, are very wary of people and I usually don't want to disturb them. This year though, I stuck gold when out cycling, I cam across a family of foxes sunbathing on a rural lane, so I decided to head back to photograph them. 

Upon arriving at the site I couldn't see anything, but I decided to stick it out and I was richly rewarded ... 
Fox cubs, Hampshire by Bret Charman
Fox cub portrait by Bret Charman
Fox cubs enjoying the evening sun by Bret Charman
Fox cub sleeping in the road
Fox cubs watching the photographer in road by Bret Charman
Fox cub in the rural road by Bret Charman
Fox cub resting in road in front of car by Bret Charman
As you can see, even a rural road gets traffic. Each time a car appeared, all of the cubs jumped into the hedgerow, taking cover in their earth and keeping out of trouble. Sadly, only a few days after I took the photo above, I found the body of this cub hidden in the hedge. It had been hit by a car and purposefully placed out of sight, it was a devastating blow and I was unable to photograph the family again - rightly so, the remaining cubs were very wary. It just goes to show the fragility of the natural world and the massive negative impact humanity has on the natural world. 
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Japan's Winter Wildlife

22/6/2020

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I remember seeing the first images of Japan in winter around 10 years ago, but I had no knowledge of the country and very little idea about the wildlife. However, at the start of 2019 I was asked whether I would like to lead Wildlife
Worldwide’s inaugural photography tour
to the country, during the snowy winter months, focusing on red-crowned cranes, Steller’s sea eagles and of course the much-loved Japanese macaques (or snow monkeys).

Firstly, if you decide to visit Japan, I can’t recommend Japan Airlines enough - they were truly exceptional. The majority of Japan’s wildlife is concentrated along the main island’s central spine or on some of the smaller, wilder islands such as Hokkaido. This is where my group spent the majority of their time, on the beautiful snowy island of Hokkaido.

We had wonderful sightings of whooper swan and red-crowned cranes during the first couple of days on the island. We had the chance to see a pair of Ural owls in the nearby forests and numerous woodland birds (many of which are recognisable to those from Europe). For me though, the species I was most looking forwards to seeing was the impressive Steller’s sea eagle. Let’s just say I wasn’t going to be disappointed …
Red-crowned cranes, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Leaping red-crowned crane, Hokkaido by Bret Charman, Japan
Calling red-crowned cranes, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Ural owl, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
We didn't have the best light for our time in Japan, particularly with the cranes - it was either too gloomy or too bright. Fussy photographers are a pain, but it does make such a big difference. It was really gloomy for my time with the swans, so I didn't really get anything worthwhile, but it was lovely just to watch them. 

After our time in the island's volcanic interior, it was time to head to the coast in search of Steller's and white-tailed eagle. 
White-tailed eagle in flight, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
White-tailed eagle taking off from the sea ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
White-tailed eagle portrait on sea ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
White-tailed eagle portrait, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle resting on sea ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle landing on ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Fighting Steller's sea eagles, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle in flight, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle portrait, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle pair on ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Steller's sea eagle portrait on ice, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
After heading out in to the see ice to photograph the eagles, we headed south towards a frozen lake for more eagle photography. There was also an opportunity to enjoy the glorious birdlife around a traditional onsen. The highlights here were the Japanese pygmy woodpecker, the Japanese sable (a member of the marten family) and the Blakiston's fish owl (the largest owl in the world). 
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Japanese sable, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Blakiston's fish owl, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Black eared kites and eagles, Lake Furen, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Black-eared kit, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
White-tailed eagles squabbling, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
Mid-aire duel between white-tailed eagles, Hokkaido, Japan by Bret Charman
After an amazing week on the island of Hokkaido, enjoying the snowy conditions and stunning wildlife, it was time to head back to Tokyo. We spent a night in Tokyo before heading into the main island's centre to the city of Nagano. To be more precise we headed to the town of Yamanouchi, the perfect place to base ourselves for photographing the famed 'snow monkeys' or as they should be known, Japanese macaques. Sadly, there was a bit of a heat wave in the mountains and snow was rather lacking for the most part. 
Japanese macaque juvenile, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
Japanese macaque portrait, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
Japanese macaque on rocks, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
Japanese macaque portrait on rock, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
Japanese macaque juveniles play fighting, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
Japanese macaque in snow, Honshu, Japan by Bret Charman
So what can I say about Japan. Well, quite simply, it is fantastic. Don't expect to be on your own, there will nearly always be other people about, but it is still somewhere I recommend highly. For the opportunities to see Steller's sea eagles alone it is worth it. Be sure to join on Wildlife Worldwide's Japan's Winter Wildlife photography tour. 
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Zambia's Wildlife Photography Extravaganza – Week 4

2/5/2020

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It was my final week in Zambia, with my third group from Wildlife Worldwide arriving. It was another fantastic week and we were treated to some remarkable sightings. It was a week of lions, leopards, buffalos, elephants and new-born impala.

We were blown away by some incredible game drives, with mating lions, a complete leopard hunt and lions gorging on numerous buffalo carcasses. Once again, I am going to leave you with the images to do the talking. Enjoy!
Young leopard in a tree, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Young leopard cub in a tree, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African lion male, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Lioness, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Lioness portrait, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Lioness, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
The first days were all about the big cats, but there was so much more on offer throughout the week ...
Newborn impala, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Drinking lioness, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African fish eagle, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Hyena with hippo skin, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Bushbuck, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Crowned hornbill, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Maribou stork, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
As the week progressed it seemed that we had a bit of a leopard fiesta, the sightings increased in the last couple of days and provided some excellent photography opportunities.
African leopard, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard with baby impala kill, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard walking, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard walking along tree branch, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard walking along branch, South Luangwa National Park, Africa by Bret Charman
Leopard resting on a branch of a tree, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
If you would like to join me in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, there are still a few places left in 2021. You can find out more and book your place on the Wildlife Worldwide website, alternatively please contact me for more information. 
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Zambia's Wildlife Photography Extravaganza – Week 3

24/4/2020

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It was my third week in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park and I was well and truly in the groove. Being in the African bush is where I feel most at home, it has a hold over me like nowhere else. It was now I really felt in tune with my surroundings and really in sync with the wildlife of this remarkable national park.

It was my second tour of the season leading for Wildlife Worldwide and it was another delightful group of people. Our local guide was Bwalya, who's love of photography and wildlife was immediately apparent. 

This week turned out to be the week of leopards and lions. We were blessed with numerous encounters and sightings and rewarded with some fantastic photography opportunities. Once again, rather than going in to too much detail, I will simply let the pictures do the talking.
Young leopard walking, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Crawshay's zebra, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Vervet monkey and baby, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
African leopard, panthera pardus, South Luangwa by Bret Charman
African leopard drinking, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Leopard with an impala kill, South Luangwa, Zambia by Bret Charman
Baby elephant, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Southern carmine bee-eater, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia by Bret Charman
Elephant shrew, South Luangwa by Bret Charman
Young male lion, South Luangwa National Park by Bret Charman
Lioness feeding on a buffalo carcass, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia by Bret Charman
As you can see from all of the images, my group and I were blessed with some amazing sightings. In fact, for me South Luangwa offers such incredible variety and world-class photography opportunities. These are only a taster of what we were able to enjoy, but I hope it inspires you to join me in 2021 (there are still a few places remaining). You can book your place here. 
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Zambia's Wildlife Photography Extravaganza – Week 2

15/2/2020

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My second week in Zambia was the first with my Wildlife Worldwide guests and our expert local guide was Jonathan (one of the excellent guiding team at Flatdogs Camp). We had an unbelievable week with numerous leopard sightings, but it was the lions who really stole the show. I had a fantastic group and we were lucky enough to enjoy an all-day game drive with over 30 lions seen, a leopard, countless elephant and some fantastic birds too.
​
Rather than waffle on, I will just share some of the highlights. Enjoy!
Carmine bee-eaters at sunset by Bret Charman
Red-billed quelea fly across the setting sun in South Luangwa National Park (Bret Charman)
Young African leopard in South Luangwa National Park (Bret Charman)
African lions watch a herd of elephants on the banks of the Luangwa River, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Lion cub resting on a termite mound, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
African leopard asleep on a tree, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Puku on the banks of the Luangwa River, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Southern carmine bee-eater resting on the bank of the Luangwa River, Zambia (Bret Charman)
African elephant mother with calf, Zambia's South Luangwa National Park (Bret Charman)
There are still a few places available in 2021 if you would like to join me in South Luangwa, you can find out more here. 
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Zambia’s Wildlife Photography Extravaganza– Week 1

4/1/2020

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Back in November 2020 I was privileged enough to lead three back-to-back photographic safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. I used to work in the Luangwa Valley, back before I worked in the UK in the wildlife travel business, so I am very familiar with the wildlife and it is like home from home for me. The week before my first guests arrived, I went to a national park I hadn’t previously heard of – Luambe National Park. In fact, a friend of mine (and my old boss) now runs the only accommodation in the park and offered to show me around.

So here is a little taster of my first week back in the Zambian bush, the place where I probably feel most at home. As well as Luambe, I went for a few game drives in the Mfuwe sector of South Luangwa National Park – so believe me when I tell you that the wildlife sightings were world class.
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I hope you enjoy an image-based round up of week one … 
Leopard, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Nile crocodile, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Male lion,  South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
Lion cub, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
African wild dogs or painted wolves, Luambe National Park, Zambia (Bret Charman)
The African wild dogs (or painted wolves) were taken in Luambe National Park whilst staying at the truly stunning Luambe Camp. I can't recommend this remote and beautiful camp highly enough, so please do visit the website to find out more. 

P.S. The next few posts show even more variety and a whole host of cats ... 
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Romania's Danube Delta

9/12/2019

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​Back in September I went on a trip for Wildlife Worldwide to Romania’s Danube Delta (for the first time). I had heard great things about Europe’s largest river delta and knew whatever happened, I would experience somewhere completely different to anywhere I had been before. 
 
I stayed at the purpose-built property known as Ultimate Frontiera. Specially designed for wildlife photographers , the purpose-built hides are spread across the estate and provide the opportunities to photography a myriad of different species. On my first morning in the hides I was hoping to photograph the pygmy cormorant, an elusive and rarely seen species. I did get a couple of shots of pygmy cormorant, but it was a common kingfisher that proved to be a real delight, posing perfectly in front of the hide only a few metres away. I have tried photographing kingfishers in the UK and never had any luck, whether it be from purpose-built hides or sitting patiently on a river bank. So, finally, to be rewarded with shots like this was a real treat.
 
It wasn’t just kingfishers that proved to be particularly cooperative, we were treated to some great views of little owl, a wide variety of small woodland passerines, squacco heron and great white pelicans. We were even luckier in the fact we got to see a solitary Dalmatian pelican, of which there are fewer than 2,000 left in the world.
Common kingfisher, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Common kingfisher on branch, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Common kingfisher with blue background, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Little owl in window, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Little owl on abandoned building roof, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Squacco heron, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
It also proved to be a particularly reliable place to photography golden jackal, which are moving further west into Europe each year. 
 
It was a great place for anyone with a passion for bird photography, and I can only imagine that during the spring it is full of life. I highly recommend you join Wildlife Worldwide in May to get your very own Romanian bird photography fix.
 
I hope you like the pictures – and don’t forget to head off to Romania and see it for yourself!
Golden jackal, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
Great white pelicans, Danube Delta, Romania, Bret Charman
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Finland's Finest Wildlife

5/9/2019

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I have been extremely fortunate, leading photography trips to Finland’s remote Boreal forests for a few years now. However, the first night of the trip I led for Wildlife Worldwide earlier this year, was without doubt one of the finest wildlife watching/photography experiences of my life.

It all started as we settled into our hides for the first night. Our cameras were still being set up, we hadn’t even sat down when a young wolf appeared on the edge of the treeline. By the time we had all of our gear ready, the wolf had disappeared, but it didn’t take long for our first photographic opportunity. To start with, it was bears galore. Coming to feed on the scraps and carcass that had been left out (this is all done under license and is strictly regulated).
 
As the evening flew by the wolves were joined by a pair of wolves, the alpha male and the new alpha female. I know the male well, having photographed him many times before and I did see the female last year. Below you can see a number of images from across our 4 nights in the hides and the video of what proved to be a moment of a lifetime.
Brown bear in Finland by Bret Charman
Wolf in Finland by Bret Charman
Wolf and bear in Finland by Bret Charman
Wolf in Finland by Bret Charman
​As the light started to fade, a lone wolf was wandering across the marshy ground in front of the hides. It was then that another wolf begin to howl in the trees to our left. Incredibly the whole packed joined in, pups and all, and finally the lone wolf joined in too. As I write this I have goosebumps thinking back to it, a tingling sensation down my spine, for it was the most astonishing noise I have ever heard. To be so close to such an incredible evocative noise was a moment I will long cherish and to get it on camera is even more special. 
Bear in Finland by Bret Charman
Wolverine in Finland by Bret Charman
Wolverine in Finland by Bret Charman
Be sure to join me as I lead another Finland’s Boreal Predators photography tour for Wildlife Worldwide in 2020. 
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Summer Roe Deer

27/7/2019

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As those of you that follow my work regularly will know I spend my summers photographing a number of different species, but one I always return to is the roe deer. This species of deer (native to the UK) are particularly elusive, but are surely the most beautiful of species found here in the UK. I have spent many years perfecting my stalking and am very proud of the images I have been able to capture in the past.

This year I really feel that my work with the deer as at another level and I am really pleased with the results. The only downside is that after an incident I have been unable to run any workshops – my sincerest apologies to those that wanted to join me this year.

​Anyway, I will now just let the images do the talking – I hope you enjoy them … 
Roe deer buck, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck in field of oats, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck in field of oats, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck in barley, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer in field of oats, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck on edge of oil seed rape, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck backlit at sunset, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
Roe deer buck backlit at sunset, Hampshire, South Downs National Park (Bret Charman)
I hope you enjoyed looking through the above, I just wish I hadn't been driven away from the site for a period of time. Hopefully in 2020 I can offer the opportunity to come out with me once again.
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Puffins All Around Me

1/7/2019

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2019 marks the third year in a row that I have led dedicated photography tours to Skomer Island in Wales for Wildlife Worldwide, focusing on the charismatic Atlantic puffin. This rocky outcrop in the Irish Sea is home to nearly 30,000 puffins and a staggering 750,000 Manx shearwaters.
 
The weather on my two visits so far this year was pretty varied with sunshine, heavy rain and very strong winds all playing a roll. Sadly, during the evenings (when the puffins are most active) the weather was usually pretty dire – lots of rain, strong winds and sea spray.

Of course, I still managed to capture a few other shots which are worthy of a little attention. So sit back, relax and get your annual puffin-fix below … 
Puffin portrait in sea campion, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Atlantic puffins in flight, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Puffin with sand eels in bracken, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Puffin in bracken, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Puffin flying in the rain, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
I did have the privilege to enjoy one spectacular sunrise though and managed to capture some stunning shots of the birds as they returned to their nests. I also managed to get a few shots of razorbills, oystercatcers and guillemots. 
Razorbill perched on a cliff ledge, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Oystercatcher in bracken, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Guillemot flying at sunrise, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Atlantic puffin flying at sunrise, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Puffin portrait in the morning sun, Skomer Island, Wales (Bret Charman)
Be sure to join Wildlife Worldwide for Skomer's Perfect Puffins in 2020 - dates will be released in October so keep your eyes peeled. Depending on the dates I may well be back yet again.
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Back to Bears – Slovenia

22/6/2019

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This year marks the third year in a row I have been to Slovenia to photograph brown bears in the Dinaric Alps. As I am sure you all know, I am extremely lucky to travel far and wide for my work, but Slovenia has a certain something about it. Of all the trips I lead for Wildlife Worldwide, Slovenia is one of my absolute favourites.
 
Slovenia has moved into the 21st century without losing its charm, it still has character and its own identity. Idyllic mountain villages, breathtakingly placed churches, vast caves and exquisite wildlife all add to this charm offensive – I don’t know anywhere in the world that does it so well.
 
Of course the primary reason for visiting the Notranjska region of Slovenia is for its thriving population of bears. This year we were once again treated to some wonderful sightings of bears, all from the purpose-built hides. The first couple of days were a little slow, but I think the heavy rain and cold conditions were definitely a factor. After that though, we had good sightings of bear each evening, providing some fabulous photography opportunities. 
Brown bear, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Standing brown bear, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Slovenia's Dinaric Alps in the mist (Bret Charman)
White stork on nest with chicks, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
Brown bear in the forest, Slovenia (Bret Charman)
What I really love about photographing bears in Slovenia, compared to other places in Europe in particular, are the stunning forest settings in which the bears can be seen. You can build up a stunning portfolio in just a few days, and this year my group did just that.
 
I will be heading back to Slovenia in August for my own photography and I look forward to seeing the landscape at the end of summer. Sadly, in 2020, I will not be leading the Slovenia tour organised by Wildlife Worldwide as I will be leading in Svalbard instead – hopefully photographing some white bears instead. Rest assured though, the trip will be led by another talented photographer in Tom Mason, and the trip promises to be another roaring success. 
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