Working as a wildlife photographer is one of the most gratifying careers available. You get to work in nature while photographing some of the world’s most beautiful creatures. Some animals seem to like posing for photographs and appear to be anticipating their 15 minutes of fame. However, when humans are present, certain animals become shy or playful. Continue reading to view more animals who made wildlife photographers laugh with their antics.
Camera For Two
This fox noticed a photographer going over his photos and decided to take a look. We’re guessing it was the subject of the images who simply wanted to make sure this guy saw his best side. Not from the left, but from the right, he shines brightest! Have you ever tried to take a picture of a fox? If they let you take their picture at all, they’re pretty special creatures! It’s never a sure thing. This one was most likely persuaded with treats, but it’s ready to grab the camera and flee if it doesn’t like the outcome.
Camera For Two
Sneaky Seal
Here’s a nature photographer with a good sense of humor. When one snuck up behind him, he was only attempting to grab some fantastic shots of seals on the beach. He’s now caught between a rock and a hard place, unsure of what to do next. With no way out, all he can do is giggle at the predicament he’s found himself in. Thank god he had a friend with him to photograph him attempting to photograph nature. When he joins up with the rest of his group back at the hotel, he’ll never forget this!
Sneaky Seal
A Cute Distraction
Take a look at that baby cheetah and tell me you wouldn’t be pissed if it prevented you from taking a photo. We’d set the camera down and begin to experiment with it. Who could possibly say no? We’re safe as long as its mother doesn’t show up. If she does emerge from the brush, we should stop moving and act as the photographer in the first photograph. It’s not our fault that adorable animals are impossible to avoid! Particularly this fluff monster!
A Cute Distraction
Curious Fox
Food is scarce during the winter months. This fox is sincerely hoping that this camera is a source of food. Sorry, buddy, it’s only for taking photos. Do you want to see your nose up close and personal? That sounds like a lot of fun for everyone! Hopefully, this photographer will be able to capture a good image. He doesn’t appear to want to spend too much time outside because it appears to be cold. We wouldn’t do it. We certainly wouldn’t be laughing. This fox is adorable, but it’s doing this photographer a disservice.
Curious Fox
Clingy Tiger
Sometimes all you want to do is play. This baby tiger was tired of playing with other cats and decided to take a chance when he saw a human. If only he’d come prepared. His picture is now ruined, he needs to purchase new glasses, and if this cat isn’t careful, he’ll require stitches! This is one of our all-time favorite images. We don’t mind if this little tiger makes it impossible for this photographer to do his job! The more human players you have, the better.
Clingy Tiger
Bear Sandwich
The poor man’s photo shoot could not have gone any worse. He was just taking a few pictures when he noticed a bear to his left. Then he turned to his right, and there it was: another bear! On the other hand, the bears saw him and wondered if they had stumbled upon the ideal afternoon snack. A tasty human morsel is the best way to bulk up for the winter hibernation months. On a brighter note, these bears appear to be quite friendly; all the photographer needs to do now is remain calm and collected.
Bear Sandwich
Slow And… Dangerous?
This adorable but irritated three-toed sloth is very vocal about his feelings about photography. He doesn’t want anything to do with it, and he looks like he’d eat your camera if you tried to take a picture of him. Even though sloths are usually friendly and are the world’s slowest mammals, we’d stay away from this one. We don’t want to be the ones on the receiving end of his seriousness.
Slow And… Dangerous
Just A Bit Higher!
That’s one happy bird! Unlike some of the other animals on this list, it genuinely wants this photographer to take his picture; all he has to do now is find the bird. Who knows how his framing will turn out if he has to shoot the photo blindfolded! Just a smidgeon higher. Lower it now. To the left now. To the right now. Returning to the left. An inch higher. PERFECT! But just to be sure, take a few shots. The more film this photographer spends on this single bluebird, the better!
Just A Bit Higher!
Hungry Deer
Another case of one photographer being fortunate to have another photographer with him! We wouldn’t have gotten some of these amazingly hilarious photos if picture takers didn’t travel together. We have no idea what this deer was expecting to see through the camera lens, and we don’t care. More importantly, this guy may be laughing now, but if this deer cracks his lens, he will not be laughing. If you’ve ever looked up the cost of new lenses, you’re well aware that they’re not cheap!
Hungry Deer
There You Are!
Another day of photographing, another fox spoiling the fun. The worst part is that this photographer has no control over the situation. He or she is trapped in their makeshift igloo, trying to stay warm while avoiding detection. This fox discovered the camera and positioned himself in front of it. No, the adorable but misplaced critter will remain there until it figures out what’s going on. On both sides, this is going to be a long fight!
There You Are!
A Friendly Squirrel
We’ve never seen a squirrel this friendly, so there must be nuts in that bag. Typically, they become jittery and are only interested in grabbing a quick bite to eat before fleeing as quickly as possible. While this person takes pictures, this squirrel has firmly established itself on this backpack. Also, what is this person photographing? Flowers? You’ve got a squirrel on your back, dude! Your camera should be pointing in that direction. If there’s one thing we learned from the man who photographed the bird on his head, it’s that “where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
A Friendly Squirrel
Over Here!
Sometimes all you need is a little assistance from a friend to get the perfect shot. When the cameraman saw a family of meerkats out on their adventures, he knew he had the perfect photo opportunity. The issue was that the meerkats would not turn around and pose for him. Fortunately, the problem was solved when another meerkat jumped on his back to assist him. His friend can now wave to his family, letting them know what’s going on. Then it’s up to them to decide whether or not they want to take the perfect photo for their holiday cards.
Over Here!
A Terrifying Head Pat
This woman is dead set on taking the perfect picture, no matter who or what gets in her way. Even a big white wolf whispering sweet nothings in her ear couldn’t help her. If it were us, we’d flee as quickly as our legs could carry us. Some photographs are simply unworthy of being taken. This photographer deserves praise for being more daring than the rest of us. Or even more obstinate. Actually, that sounds more accurate. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and she isn’t about to blow it after years of trying!
A Terrifying Head Pat
Approaching The Photographer
Being a photographer is a difficult job. To get the perfect shot, you’ll need to be both creative and technical. You’ll also need to hone your laser focus. It’s difficult to focus when there are so many distractions around you, especially if those distractions are cute animals. These cuties were not afraid to tell the photographer that they didn’t want their picture taken. They didn’t flee; instead, they approached her. Maybe they’re just pointing her in the right direction creatively?
Approaching The Photographer
Sly Fox
What is it about foxes that makes them feel compelled to act when they see photographers? This fox appears to be trying something new. Instead of confronting the photographers directly, it has crept up from behind and is preparing to play a trick. This poor photographer isn’t going to be able to see it coming. What will her reaction be? We hope whoever was watching and photographing this did something to assist afterward. In any case, that’s what a good friend would do.
Sly Fox
Fed Up Squirrel
In today’s world, the paparazzi are annoying. They follow celebrities everywhere they go, photographing their every move. It’s enough to make a man mad. Even though this squirrel isn’t a celebrity, he still has his picture taken against his will regularly. Today, however, is not that day! He’d had enough of wildlife photographers invading his personal space and decided to do something about it. Unfortunately for him, it only served to enhance the photograph.
Fed Up Squirrel
Fairytale Kiss
First and foremost, we have no idea what kind of animal has adorably distracted this photographer. We believe it is a baby weasel, but we aren’t certain. It’s giving the photographer an “Eskimo kiss,” whatever it is. Let’s hope she doesn’t lose her sense of smell! If he’s lucky, this little fella will be transformed into a prince by the kiss of this photo princess. Isn’t that how the fairytale goes? True love’s first kiss will end the curse and transform this creature into its most natural state.
Fairytale Kiss
It’s Gonna Cost An Arm And A Leg
What did this lion do to the person holding the camera? Oh no! Are they all right? This lion has a very proud trot as it walks away with its prize. The adage “it’s going to cost an arm and a leg” has never been more accurate. What is this lion going to photograph now that it has a new camera? We believe this is the first lion to start a family album with photos of its cubs as they grow up. We can’t help but shed a tear at the sentiment.
It’s Gonna Cost An Arm And A Leg
Let Me Have A Look!
Everything was going swimmingly for this photographer until the arrival of this cheetah. He’s now stuck, unable to move, staring through the camera. Any sudden movement could send this calm kitty into big cat mode. For the time being, everything appears to be in order. Simply put, don’t move. There’s always the possibility that this cheetah is genuinely interested in looking at the camera. Cats are inquisitive creatures, and this one may simply be curious about what this strange human is up to. Is he on the lookout for more cheetahs? Perhaps a tasty snack? One thing is sure: curiosity won’t get this cat!
Let Me Have A Look!
Reviewing The Photos
Perhaps this is how the lion in the previous slide got the camera. We can’t be certain it’s the same lion or camera, but it’s possible. This ferocious feline is clearly learning how to photograph itself. It’s had enough of watching humans do it, and now it’s taking a turn. Is this the beginning of Animal Farm? The other animals will gradually learn how to do other things now that lions know how to take pictures. We’ll be living in the grass before we know it while our furry friends build homes for themselves indoors.
Reviewing The Photos
Another Animal Taking Over
The lions came first, followed by the foxes. Or did the foxes initiate the end-of-the-world scenario? Several foxes have now been seen getting in the way of wildlife photographers doing their jobs. It appears that they had a hidden agenda. Foxes are cunning! What’s next, mice learning to photograph? Snakes? We’re trembling in our boots because the possibilities are endless. Okay, we’re not all that terrified. This entire doomsday scenario is far too absurd to be taken seriously. Return to your foraging, fox!
Another Animal Taking Over
The Next To Take Over
So much for the absurdity of the animal takeover scenario. Our worst fears have been realized. The foxes first taught the lions how to use cameras and then the mice. The cameras come first, followed by the rest of our technology, and don’t count on your thumbs to save you. Call your local veterinarian and explain the situation. Your children’s future is at stake!
The Next To Take Over
Taking The Perfect Picture
Behind the lens of this Canon camera, this little fox appears to be a professional. Take a look at how he’s standing straight and leaning against the tripod’s camera. His paw placement is perfect, and he almost appears to be peering through the viewfinder, giving his subject some creative direction!… And it’s possible that he is. After all, foxes aren’t known for being one of the most intelligent animals on the planet.
Taking The Perfect Picture
Curious Bear
Can you imagine setting up your gear to shoot some wildlife photography only to return to this scene after a brief break? We’re glad this photographer had another camera on hand to capture this moment because it’s spot-on! The bear appears to be directing a photoshoot from the way he stands curiously over this camera. While we adore this image, we’d be a little worried if a bear was circling our priceless possessions!
Curious Bear
My Camera Now
When a lion takes your camera, it isn’t yours anymore. It’s theirs now, and the best thing you can do is accept it. Carry on with your life, save your money, and purchase a new camera. Have you seen the teeth on these things, after all? You certainly don’t want to run into one. One thing is certain: this lovely creature did not want his picture taken, and he made it clear to the photographer. Hopefully, the photographer will not miss it too much!
My Camera Now
Giving You A Scare
Being a wildlife photographer necessitates constant vigilance. AT ALL TIMES, we repeat: AT ALL TIMES! You never know when one of your subjects will decide that they don’t want their picture taken and will instead give you the scare of a lifetime. While we’re sure this photographer is a seasoned pro in this field, we believe the expression on his face says it all. Fortunately, he has this insanely cool photograph to look back on. Isn’t it all part of the job?
Giving You A Scare
Photographer Beaver
When this beaver noticed a photographer taking photos of the wildlife near his home, he felt compelled to peer through the viewfinder himself. He didn’t seem to believe what he was seeing! His expression is absolutely priceless. We don’t want to make the assumption that this photograph is superior to anything else taken by the photographer that day…but we’d bet our money on it!
Photographer Beaver
Creative Director Of The Day
The fox is sick of being photographed by wildlife photographers. He is aware that he is attractive, but he is so much more than his amber fur and perky ears. He’s astute! He’s a thinker! He’s a genius! He can be a wildlife photographer if a human can. Clearly, the photographer yielded to the fox’s demands and allowed him to try his hand (or should we say paw?) behind the lens. He appears to know exactly what he’s doing.
Creative Director Of The Day
Looking For The Perfect Shot
This little primate, tired of being the subject of wildlife photographers all over the world, was eager to try his hand at being the photographer for a change. He appears to be pleased with his work based on his expression. Sure, he’s a perfectionist at heart, but we believe he captured the perfect shot somewhere in that roll of film. He’ll be the top creative director in the jungle before you know it.
Looking For The Perfect Shot
Let Me Show You How It’s Done, Human
Take a look at this baby primate and tell me you wouldn’t let it try to hold your camera. Come on, people! He’s just too adorable. He may be the same size as this monstrous camera, but his confidence appears to be taking him to new heights. We’re sure he was sick of having his picture taken all the time and wanted to try his hand at it for a change. Little guy, follow your dreams!
Let Me Show You How It’s Done, Human
RUN!
This photo of a group of photographers fleeing shows just how far some people will go to get the perfect shot. And it’s amazing how far some animals will go to avoid being photographed. While it’s unclear how much danger this group was in, we’re guessing they don’t regret their collective decision to flee the charging bear as quickly as possible.
RUN!
In A Bad Mood
This looks exactly like what the antonym of “hooray” is. You don’t want to be on the receiving end of a hippo’s bad mood, believe us. This particular shot appears to be of a mother hippo being bitten by her calf—what a jerk. As a result, it’s understandable that she doesn’t feel camera-ready. She does, after all, have a mouthful of food. Who in their right mind would want a photo of themselves right now?
In A Bad Mood
Polar Bear Photobooth
Is this cute polar bear trying to avoid the camera? Is she under the impression that there’s a camera in that ship’s porthole, and she’s just posing for the perfect selfie? We already knew polar bears were curious creatures, but this image takes the cake! This image’s photographer should be extremely proud of his or her work. Even in the Arctic, a shot like this doesn’t come along every day.
Polar Bear Photobooth
Too Many Cameras
The Heilongjiang Siberian Tiger Park in Heilongjiang, China, provided the backdrop for this photograph. That adorable cub is a baby Siberian tiger, one of the world’s most endangered animals. Perhaps this is why he refuses to smile for the cameras or pose with this child. The zoo claims that out of the hundred or so cubs born each year, 80 percent of them survive. That’s fantastic news!
Too Many Cameras
Knocked Out
This image is a true classic. Kangaroos are known for being irrational, so anyone who messes with one should be aware that they’re taking a huge risk. After a hefty punch from the cute but dangerous marsupial, the photographer seen here was taught a valuable lesson… his camera was sent flying through the air. The photographer and the person who took this photo of the animal have captured a truly classic shot.
Knocked Out
On Their Own
These absolutely adorable chipmunks also happen to be fantastic photographers. They’re such skilled photographers that they don’t even require the assistance of a human to capture their images. As you can see, the one on the right can operate the camera’s various settings, whereas the one on the left was modeling various poses. We can only hope that these artists publish a book or a calendar of their work. We’d be the first in line to get our hands on a signed copy.
On Their Own
Going Fast
Elephants have the ability to move quickly when they want to. Despite their size and appearance, they are capable of running at a high rate when necessary. To be precise, 15.5 miles per hour, though this is only for short distances. This elephant is scurrying away from the photographer who is attempting to capture his image with his camera. Even though it’s a little blurry, it’s still a fantastic shot.
Going Fast
Blending In
Have you ever wondered how nature photographers capture those breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime images? As it turns out, they do have to go to great lengths on occasion. This devoted photographer is an excellent example of this. He’s not only partially submerged in water, but he’s also dressed as a swan, which is incredibly awkward. We’d love to see the photos he took that day, especially if some confused swans thought he was Björk and wanted to preen for her at the 2001 Academy Awards.
Blending In
If You See This Pose, Run
This is a pretty amusing pose that a skunk struck while being captured on a wildlife monitoring camera. He wasn’t joking, though! If you ever see a skunk that appears to be “dancing” like this, flee as quickly as possible because you are about to be sprayed. When skunks sense danger, they release a foul-smelling liquid, and you don’t want to be on the receiving end of a skunk spray. Fortunately, they usually give a heads-up (like this headstand) before stinking up the place.
If You See This Pose, Run
Ready For A Close-Up
This adorable photo was taken in the Alps during the summer season. This wildlife photographer set out to see what he could find in the mountains. Instead, he was discovered by this Alpine marmot! This marmot isn’t afraid to pose for the camera. While the wildlife photographer had a different shot in mind, this marmot isn’t letting him capture any candid moments, judging by his long lens. He might also be double-checking his Instagram account to make sure it’s properly tagged.
Ready For A Close Up
Friendly Raccoons
A wildlife photographer traveled to Cozumel Island, Mexico, to capture images of the island’s wildlife. Tourists come to the island off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to scuba dive, snorkel, and explore. These pygmy raccoons are endangered on the island, but they appear to be friendly! They approached this photographer, who took a step back to give them space but couldn’t help but snap a photo. These raccoons are noticeably smaller than the raccoons that frequent the neighborhood.
Friendly Raccoons
Curious Baby Seal
A wildlife photographer captured this image in Stromness Bay, South Georgia. This Antarctic fur seal baby came over to get a closer look while the photographer was stationed along the shoreline to keep the animals at a safe distance. This is a medium-sized seal with a longer neck and more pointed muzzle than other seal species. The seal pups will spend around four months with their mother before venturing out on their own for several years before having their own pups.
Curious Baby Seal
Selfie!
This photograph was taken in Qingdao, China, by a wildlife photographer surrounded by ring-tailed lemurs! These animals are very social and live in groups of up to 30 people. They’re endemic to Madagascar, but their habitats are disappearing, so they’re now listed as an endangered species. Hopefully, photos like this one will help to raise awareness about these amazing creatures. They can be found in five of Madagascar’s major national parks, from the forests to the mountains!
Selfie!
Befriending A Wild Goose
This wildlife photographer traveled to the Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire, England, to photograph birds and other animals. He’s set up to photograph the flamingos because the center alone is home to six different species of flamingos. He had no idea that the photographer would befriend a wild goose later that day. Their interaction was captured by another photographer. Visitors are welcome to feed the birds at the center.
Befriending A Wild Goose
Roadrunner
Neil Rettig, a wildlife photographer, traveled to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona’s Tucson Mountains to capture footage for a BBC wildlife film documentary. There was no shortage of wildlife once he arrived! As Rettig was setting up the shot alongside the picturesque mountains, a roadrunner perched on top of his motion picture camera. Rettig and the rest of the crew waited until the bird was ready to move on before yelling, “action!”
Roadrunner
A Missed Shot
In the Dominican Republic, this photo was taken as snorkeling photographers jumped off a tender boat. The group was there to take incredible pictures of whales and other wildlife, but this guy is missing the shot altogether! As he glides by, a Silver Back Humpback Whale gives him the side-eye, almost as if to say, “Really, man?” Another photographer captured this image, but the snorkeler who is partially in the shot will undoubtedly be disappointed that they missed this opportunity.
A Missed Shot
Beauty Everywhere
This photographer used their 200mm Nikkor macro lens to photograph the wildlife of Central America. Thankfully, they had another camera on hand to capture this stunning image of a Flambeau butterfly perched on the macro lens. According to the photographer, the butterfly landed on the lens because mineral salts from the photographer’s sweaty hands were still present. The moisture is being collected by the butterfly.
Beauty Everywhere
The Shot They Came For
These photographers jumped off a boat to dive down and capture incredible images of sharks and other marine life below the surface of the ocean, but they probably weren’t expecting this! One of the photographers in the background is still unsure about the cage that provides only limited protection from these large sharks. Another photographer, who is pictured on their knees, is staring the lemon shark in the eyes. This is a moment that these photographers will never forget, with everyone as clear as day in the blue Bahama water.
The Shot They Came For
Photo-Bumped!
This underwater photographer swam to the bottom of the Caribbean to photograph some wildlife. When he went to photograph a Caribbean reef squid, however, the squid had other plans! The squid approached him and bumped with his underwater camera– not exactly the shot he was after! On the other hand, these squids are absolutely incredible looking and can be found as deep as 150 meters. We’re hoping he got a good shot!
Photo Bumped!
Professional With The Camera
Alpine marmots have a lot of character! Look at that professionalism! It appears that this guy has worked in front of a camera before. He’s been waiting for a wildlife photographer to come over and help him set up his tripod and lens. He’s all set to leave now. This marmot appears to be directing the human to run around in the hills so he can be the subject of the photograph!
Professional With The Camera