The story always begins before the photograph
Simon Page
Documentary Nature & Wildlife PhotographerÂ
Global Ambassador | Rewilding Africa
Photography captures a moment.
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Stories provide the context behind it.
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This section explores the wildlife, habitats, landscapes, and observations that shape the photographs featured throughout North & Tide Photography. Through words and images, I share the encounters, places, and experiences that inspire my work as a Wildlife & Environmental Documentary Photographer.
I watched as this zebra dropped to the parched earth, kicking up a golden haze of silt to shield its coat from the heat. It was a brief, gritty display of instinct that reminds me why I chase these raw connections between animal and land.
Zebra in a Cloud of Dust
While I was stationary by the giraffe enclosure at West Midland Safari Park (WMSP), I looked over and spotted the entire pride gathered on the rock. It was a remarkable, quiet moment to witness these powerful animals observing their surroundings from such a prominent viewpoint.
Lion Pride on Patrol
A massive presence emerged as this hippo waded toward us through the reed-lined water. Initially, we didn't think we would get an image like this, but he must have spotted the handlers and headed directly our way. I caught this frame the second he stopped in front of me, showcasing the raw, silent power of one of nature's most impressive animals.
I see youÂ
Dust hangs gold as these rhinos drift quietly through the fading savannah light, their massive forms stirring the haze into a glowing veil. After the official tour had ended, I received permission to walk to the fence line where I managed to capture them suddenly breaking into a run. It was a rare, powerful moment where the heavy stillness of the ancient landscape met the raw energy of their motion.
Rhinos on the run
Arrival
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The first two groups of geese arrived unnoticed, their presence only revealed by the sound of water behind me.
By the time the third group appeared, I happened to glance in the right direction and had just enough time to raise the camera. What followed was a brief sequence of landings as the birds touched down and settled onto the water.
This image captures the moment between flight and rest, when speed, balance and instinct combine in a spray of water and movement. It serves as a reminder that some of the best observations happen by chance, simply by being present and paying attention.
The Coastline
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Viewed from the cliffs above, the coastline stretches along the edge of Cardigan Bay, shaped by wind, sea and time. The grasses in the foreground sway in the coastal breeze, while the sea below continues its constant movement against the shore.
Places like this are more than landscapes. They are living environments, supporting wildlife both on land and at sea. Standing above the bay, it is easy to appreciate how closely connected the coast, weather and wildlife truly are.
Touchdown
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The final moments before landing, as a Canada Goose skims across the water's surface. A brief moment of balance, movement and control captured between flight and rest.
Above the Waves
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A solitary gull glides across the Welsh coastline, carried by the winds that shape both the sea and the wildlife that depends upon it.
What drew me to this scene was not the bird alone, but the sense of place. The expanse of open water, the movement of the sea and the space surrounding the gull all combine to tell a story about life along the coast.
Photographs such as this remind me that wildlife and environment are inseparable. The sea is more than a backdrop. It is part of the story, shaping the behaviour, movement and daily lives of the species that call it home.
