Meet Shannon Wild | Wildlife Photographer & Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shannon Wild and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shannon, how do you think about risk?
Throughout my career as a wildlife photographer and cinematographer, I’ve always been drawn to taking risks to capture the most breathtaking moments of the natural world. These risks have played a significant role in shaping both my life and my career.

One of the most memorable and life-altering experiences was a cheetah mauling incident during one of my assignments. It was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of wildlife and the dangers that come with getting up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. That incident left me with physical scars, but it also deepened my respect for the animals I work with. It made me realise that, in pursuit of the perfect shot, we must never forget that we’re in their territory, and they deserve our utmost respect and caution.

Another moment of reckoning came when I pushed my physical limits too far, for too long, resulting in severe exhaustion and illness. I had underestimated the toll that the harsh conditions and relentless pursuit of capturing ‘the’ shot could take on my health. It was a wakeup call that reminded me of the importance of self-care and recognizing my own boundaries.

These experiences have been pivotal in my personal and professional growth. They’ve instilled in me a profound respect for wildlife and the natural world. The delicate balance between capturing extraordinary images and preserving the well-being of the animals I photograph is something I hold dear to my heart.

In the end, these challenges and setbacks have made me a better photographer and filmmaker, a more cautious adventurer, and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation and ethical photography practices. Through all the risks and trials, my love for the natural world has grown stronger, and I’m more determined than ever to continue sharing its beauty while respecting its fragility and hopefully sharing that with the world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art, primarily focused on wildlife photography and cinematography, is an ongoing exploration of the awe-inspiring natural world. What sets me apart, I believe, is my genuine passion for capturing the unfiltered, authentic moments of wildlife in their natural habitats. I’m truly honored to have had opportunities to showcase the beauty of these creatures while telling their unique stories.

I’m proud of the small contributions I’ve made to wildlife conservation efforts, even though I often feel like there’s so much more to be done. The journey to where I am today has certainly had its fair share of challenges. It hasn’t been easy, from enduring physically demanding conditions to navigating the risks involved in my work. These challenges have taught me the importance of resilience and staying true to my love for nature.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned the value of patience, respect for wildlife, and the need for ethical photography practices. I hope that my work can inspire others to appreciate the natural world and join the collective effort to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity. My brand and story are grounded in a deep reverence for nature and a humble aspiration to make a positive impact, one image at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Day 1:
– Morning: Start with a visit to Griffith Park. Hike up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city.
– Lunch: Head to the Trails Café located within the park for a delicious and relaxed vegetarian lunch amidst nature.
– Afternoon: Explore the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcadia for a serene stroll among beautiful gardens and peacocks.
– Dinner: Grab dinner at The Original Farmer’s Market, an iconic spot for diverse food options.

Day 2:
– Morning: Spend the day at Malibu’s Point Dume State Beach, known for its picturesque cliffs, tide pools, and uncrowded shores.
– Lunch: Enjoy vegetarian options at Malibu Seafood, a low-key place with ocean views.
– Afternoon: Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, or explore nearby El Matador Beach’s hidden sea caves.
– Dinner: Have dinner at Neptune’s Net, a biker-friendly spot with vegetarian options like veggie burgers.

Day 3:
– Morning: Head to Topanga State Park for a peaceful hike through scenic trails and canyons.
– Lunch: Stop by Topanga Living Cafe for a healthy and organic vegetarian meal in a cozy setting.
– Afternoon: Explore the Getty Center, known for its impressive art collection and stunning architecture.
– Dinner: Dine at Inn of the Seventh Ray, a romantic, rustic restaurant in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Day 4:
– Morning: Take a drive to Joshua Tree National Park, a unique desert landscape perfect for hiking and stargazing.
– Lunch: Enjoy a picnic amidst the park’s surreal rock formations.
– Afternoon: Explore Joshua Tree’s various trails, like the Hidden Valley Loop Trail or Barker Dam Trail.
– Dinner: Head back to Los Angeles and dine at HomeState for authentic Tex-Mex comfort food, with vegetarian options available.

Day 5:
– Morning: Visit the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens, a hidden oasis showcasing California native plants.
– Lunch: Enjoy a farm-to-table vegetarian meal at Sqirl, known for its creative and fresh dishes.
– Afternoon: Explore the peaceful Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge.
– Dinner: Dine at The Morrison, a cozy gastropub in Los Feliz with.

Day 6:
– Morning: Discover the tranquility of Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino.
– Lunch: Have lunch at the Rose Garden Tea Room within the Huntington Gardens.
– Afternoon: Explore the Venice Canals and take a leisurely stroll along Venice Beach.
– Dinner: Dine at Sugarfish for a minimalist dining experience, with vegetarian options available.

Day 7:
– Morning: Wrap up the trip with a visit to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area for one last hike.
– Lunch: Enjoy a beachfront meal at Back on the Beach Café in Santa Monica.
– Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing on Santa Monica Beach and exploring the Santa Monica Pier.
– Dinner: End the trip with dinner at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe, right on the Malibu Pier.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband, Russell Maclaughlin, is an incredibly talented wildlife filmmaker who shares my passion for the natural world. Russell’s dedication to his craft and his profound understanding of animal behaviour always leave me in awe. His ability to tell compelling stories through his camera lens is truly inspiring, and it aligns perfectly with our shared mission to educate and inspire others about the beauty and importance of the wild. Together, we’ve shared thrilling adventures, countless challenges and unwavering commitment to our work. His deep love for nature makes him not only my partner in life but also an invaluable collaborator in our shared mission to make a positive impact on our planet.

Website: https://www.shannonwild.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannon__wild

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonwildafrica/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shannon__wild

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShannonWild

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Shannon__Wild

Image Credits
Shannon Wild Russell Maclaughlin