Redefining Photography
Preserving the Value of the Image Amidst the Selfie Epidemic
In an era dominated by social media and the rise of selfie culture, the intrinsic value of photography—both aesthetic and economic—has become increasingly diluted. Images are now often reduced to fleeting snapshots, quickly shared and forgotten. This focus group, led by internationally acclaimed wildlife photographers and conservationists Jonathan and Angela Scott, explores the challenges of preserving the integrity of photography in a fast-paced, disposable digital world.
Drawing on their 45 years of experience photographing and writing about wildlife on Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, Jonathan and Angela will delve into the critical question: Why do we take photographs at a time when their artistic and ethical significance is under threat? They will examine how photographers can embrace their craft as a tool for storytelling, conservation, and meaningful impact, even amidst a culture of mass consumption and “aggressive tourism.”
The Scotts will share their vision for responsible photography, emphasizing the importance of supporting operators who invest in nature rather than exploit it for profit. They will also introduce their Sacred Nature Initiative, which promotes a pioneering Safari Etiquette to encourage respectful practices within the photographic community.
About Jonathan and Angela Scott:
Jonathan and Angela Scott are globally recognized wildlife photographers, conservationists, and authors who have dedicated their lives to capturing the beauty of the natural world. With decades of experience in the Maasai Mara, they have documented the lives of its iconic predators and advocated for better management of the reserve and the welfare of its wildlife. In 2021, they founded the Sacred Nature Initiative, a nonprofit organization that fosters awareness and promotes ethical practices in wildlife tourism and photography.
This focus group provides a rare opportunity to engage with two legendary photographers whose work reflects a profound commitment to their craft and conservation. Participants will be inspired to rethink the role of photography in today’s world and motivated to create images that transcend the superficial and leave a lasting impact.
Date
- 23 Feb 2025
Time
- 17:40 - 18:20
Cost
- $5.00
Location
Speakers
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Angela ScottAngela Scott is an accomplished wildlife photographer and conservationist, renowned for her artistic and atmospheric images. Raised in Tanzania, she has lived in Kenya since the 1970s and collaborates with her husband, Jonathan Scott. Together, they have published 40 books, won prestigious awards, and hosted global photography workshops. Angela co-founded the Sacred Nature Initiative to inspire and educate about nature conservation. Her work, including the award-winning Sacred Nature books, reflects her deep passion for the environment and commitment to its protection.
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Jonathan ScottJonathan Scott is an award-winning photographer, author, TV presenter & conservationist, famous for his work with big cats. He is married to wildlife photographer Angela Scott. He was the Overall Winner of the Wildlife Photographer of Year in 1987, and was the recipient of the Royal Geographical Societies Cherry Kearton Award and Medal in 1994. The Scott's have published more than 40 books including the award winning Sacred Nature: Life's Eternal Dance (HPH, 2016) & Sacred Nature 2: Reconnecting People to Our Planet (HPH, 2021). Their latest work is a series of 5 EBooks on Wildlife Photography and Safari. Jonathan has presented & co-presented numerous TV programs & series such as Big Cat Diary (1996-2008, BBC/Animal Planet) and Big Cat Tales Seasons 1 & 2 with Angela (2018-2020, Animal Planet). He features prominently in the BBC/PBS 90 minute documentary Lion: The Rise & Fall of The Marsh Pride (2002, BBC/PBS). The Scott's founded the non-profit Sacred Nature Initiative in 2021.
