Meeting with wildlife photographer Martin Morel, winner of the prestigious “Master QEP” competition for his photos in the African savannah

A portrait specialist, but passionate about animal photography, Martin Morel from Isère has found an exceptional hunting ground in Africa.

Martin Morel, a professional photographer from Isère, has just won one of the most prestigious awards in Europe: the Master Qualified European Photographer (QEP). The photographer distinguished himself with a series of twenty exceptional shots of African wildlife.

In 2023, he made a big decision. He, who is used to family portraits or portraits in the wild, decided to take a new step by flying to southern Africa, where he immortalized the majestic inhabitants of the savannah. In the heart of Botswana and Zimbabwe, Martin Morel had a unique experience, confronted with wildlife that was as fascinating as it was perilous.

When he takes wildlife photography, Martin Morel finally finds his true calling. Since his adolescence, he has been roaming the forests of Chartreuse, on the lookout for the perfect moment. “It takes patience and calm to take good shots.”he confides, revealing the secret to a successful photo.

“There are safety elements to take into account, especially with felines: you must not stand up so as not to dominate them, you must not make sudden movements. They are still wild animals. There is excitement, an adrenaline rush, it is a unique moment”explains Martin Morel.

One of the photographer’s most striking shots is of a 3.50-metre crocodile, captured in a moment of apparent calm, but with a very real risk.

“He was lying asleep on a bank, and I absolutely wanted this photo with perfect sharpness on his two aligned eyes. To do this, I got off the boat and approached to within a few meters, before quickly getting back on board, not without danger.”he remembers.

Back in France, Martin presented his photos at the Master QEP competition. A major challenge where every detail counts, from the print quality to the organization of the photos into a coherent series. “The jury takes into account the quality and the support presented, the narrative coherence of the photos. I had to organize 20 shots into two lines of 10, then add the technical aspect and the visual impact, the famous wow effect”he explains.

Today, Martin Morel plans to exhibit these animal photographs to share his passion with a wider audience. Through his lens, he invites us to an intimate exploration of the wild, capturing the raw and untamed beauty of the animal world.

To find all of Martin Morel’s work or book a photo shoot under his direction, you can contact him via his website.