With a reputation as one of the most distinguished wildlife photographers of his generation, William Fortescue has made an indelible mark on the art world for his breathtaking photographs of wild animals in their natural habitat.
With a distinct and easily recognisable style, William’s work has reached global audiences, selling in various countries. His wildlife photography has been instrumental in generating crucial funds for numerous charitable organisations and has also been featured in the prestigious Prints for Wildlife fundraiser. William's work has contributed over £110,000 to support a diverse range of causes, an aspect of his career he is most proud of.
William's latest collection, "Born Wild”, is a testament to the artist’s unwavering dedication to capturing the raw beauty and untamed spirit of the natural world.
"Throughout my work, I have always tried to photograph my wild subjects from within 10 feet and, crucially, always by hand," says William. This approach allows him to establish an intimate connection with the animals he photographs, enabling him to convey their true essence through his lens; however, getting the perfect shot often means venturing into the heart of the wild.
Above Image: William walking with a giraffe on Borana Conservancy, Kenya
For his latest collection, William and his team spent days in the vast expanse of Africa's renowned Serengeti, observing a magnificent male lion. At times, they maintained close proximity, spending hours in each other's company, while on other occasions, they respected the lion's space, leaving him to roam freely. But as fate would have it, the moment they had been waiting for finally arrived when the lion began to mate with a lioness.
Capturing such an awe-inspiring image requires considerable courage and determination, demanding utmost caution as it involves navigating the boundaries between fascination and reverence for the wild. "To get a shot like this, with the animal silhouetted against the stormy sky, I was going to have to get as close as I thought safely possible to a wild lion. No easy task," William recalls.
Guided by Anderson Kale, an exceptional guide whose knowledge of wildlife and the terrain is unparalleled, William managed to capture the perfect shot. "Anderson suggested we wait for a couple of seconds just after they've mated when he'll stand tall and survey the area around him for competitors before slumping in a heap," the artist explains.
After the lions finished their mating ritual, the male lion “stood proud; he opened his mouth wide, showing me every tooth this tough old boy still had - and sending a wave or two down my spine - gave me the shot I had been waiting for. Although even this is far beyond the expectations I had had," William recounts.
The resulting photograph is a breathtaking portrayal of the wild lion, exuding power and majesty, revealing the untamed spirit of Africa's wilderness. The artist has aptly named the image after the late great conservationist Tony Fitzjohn, commemorating his inspiring autobiography 'Born Wild.' It serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect and conserve these extraordinary creatures and their natural habitats.
"Born Wild" reflects William’s unparalleled artistry and commitment to wildlife conservation. Through his lens, he invites us to delve into the heart of the untamed, forging a profound connection with the natural world and instilling in us the responsibility to preserve its wonders for generations to come.
If you’d like to explore William’s full collection, please get in touch.
