David regularly exhibits his work, and previous venues have included the Royal Geographic Society in London. He has won awards for his work which favours a fine art style in both colour and black and white. He has six highly coveted ‘Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ Awards, and has also been awarded in many other international photography competitions. He runs guided photo safaris and tours to India, Kenya and Uganda, and has done for 12 years.
From NZ to London… Why?
It’s a long story. I’ve moved to London twice. Both times for what I believed would be for six months. The first time I remained for six years. The second time is approaching twenty. London has been kind to me.
How did a career in wildlife photography come about?
It came out of three things, my interest in design and art, my interest in nature and wildlife, and my interest in Photography from a young age, encouraged by my father.
It seems like quite an adventurous life. Are you a risk taker?
Well, it’s more interesting than my old life in an advertising agency in London. As for risks while photographing, no. I’d much rather look forward to taking more photos than risking what might be a final one.
What would your advice be for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Follow your instincts. With regards to your photography, let your style find you. Trying to ‘find’ a style only results in mimicking someone else or a hybrid of other people’s styles.
Any words of wisdom?
In photographing animals, wait, don’t chase.
Life Motto if you have one?
There is a quote by Seneca: “Luck is when opportunity meets preparedness”.
Any favourite memories that have stood out since starting your career in wildlife photography?
Being thwacked in the shins by a log-wielding silverback mountain gorilla is one! There are a few. But it is the people I have met who provide the best memories.
Any favourite destinations? If so, why?
Kenya is like a second home to me. Based on that, I would have to say Kenya. But no destination is not a favourite.
“I feel most at home where little is man-made and much is wild and natural.”
Any spots still on the ‘‘bucket’ list?
Anywhere where there are icebergs.
How do you reconcile London’s “Big City” life and ‘off-grid’ Africa?
I don’t. I’ve outgrown big cities. The crowds, the congestion, the noise, the pace. Luckily though, I can get away when I want. Arriving home after seven weeks of travel, I do often find it hard to reconcile that less than 24 hours prior I was sitting among a pride of lions or a herd of elephants.
Expat or local?
I guess I’m a bit of both. London has always looked after me and is likely to always be my home, but I will always regard myself as a New Zealander.
Any pros/cons to life as an expat?
London has always looked after me. I have lived in both New Zealand and Australia. For various reasons, I have not found them to have been so kind.
In another life I would have been…
A lawyer I think. To help put things straight for people. I have got a strong sense of justice.
Favourite /most used emoji?
I fear being labelled as dated if I were to tell you!
New for Spring 2024, these are available to purchase together, as a Collector’s Edition (only 50 copies available). More information at: davidlloyd.net