Waddle of kings
King penguin, Falkland Islands
Waddle of kings
King penguin, Falkland Islands
Awards
World Photo Annual
2025Nominee
Wildlife
Professional
Waddle of kings
King penguin, Falkland Islands
About Artist
Steffen Foerster
I am a biological scientist turned wildlife photographer based in New York City, creating work that blends scientific understanding with emotional storytelling. My photographic practice is rooted in decades of studying animal behavior in the wild, experience that shapes how I approach my subjects, anticipate moments, and work in the field with the highest respect for wildlife. Traveling across the world in search of visual stories, I aim to build a sense of connection with the animals I photograph. Whether I’m documenting birds or large African mammals, I look for the small behavioral cues, the individuality, and the emotional nuance that reveal who these animals are beyond their species labels. My goal is to create images that invite viewers into the lives of these creatures — to spark curiosity, convey the richness of their behavior, and showcase the beauty of the habitats they depend on. My background in biology continually informs both my photographic decisions and my field ethics. Understanding how animals perceive their environments allows me to work unobtrusively, minimize impact, and recognize moments that others might overlook. This scientific insight is also central to the workshops I lead. I design them to help photographers slow down, observe more deeply, and see the natural world through new eyes. Rather than focus solely on technique, I emphasize connection, patience, and visual intention — the elements that transform technical images into meaningful ones. My work spans continents and ecosystems, reflecting a lifelong fascination with wildlife and the stories that emerge when science and art meet. Through photography, teaching, and fieldwork, I strive to celebrate the individuality of animals, encourage stewardship of the natural world, and inspire others to engage with wildlife in ways that are ethical, informed, and creatively fulfilling.
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