Photography Blog - Johan Siggesson - Wildlife and Art Photographer Malta

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February 5, 2021

Orchids in Malta

As for many others, the Covid-19 pandemic ruined my travel plans for 2020 and seemingly also for, at least parts of, 2021. I am a wildlife photographer and I normally photograph animals. Many of my fellow photographers turned to local subjects. Living in Malta we are a bit starved on local fauna. At least the type of animals I like to photograph. I thought long and hard what to do and I figured out that we have 36 species of orchids in Malta.

Soon I realised that this might be an interesting challenge for me. I never really photographed flowers or plants. So I have now set out on this photographic journey on photographing the local orchids in Malta this spring.

Although we have 36 species on this tiny island it would more or less be impossible for me to photograph all the species. Some are presumed extinct or possibly extinct. Of some species, only a handfull of specimens are known to exist. I will focus on the more common ones and hopefully, I can also manage to find some of the rare ones. Just because they are more common it doesn’t mean they are any less beautiful right?

If you are interested in these beautiful wild flowers, I suggest you purchase this handbook by Stephen Mifsud called “Orchids of the Maltese Islands”.

My project on orchids in Malta

I am creating a more artistic and photographically oriented book focusing on the beauty of these orchids here in Malta. Basically more pictures and less text (or no text). Since there is already an expectedly executed handbook on the Maltese orchids in existence there is no need to reinvent the wheel.

If you are interested in photographing these orchids in Malta (Dec-May) please contact me

November 12, 2020

Tadpole shrimp

Earlier this year year I spent some time photographing and filming this amazing little creature called Tadpole shrimp (Triops cancriformis) here in Malta. It is often considered to be the oldest living species. 200 to 300 million years old are often mentioned. That is also why the Tadpole shrimp is often are called a living fossil.

They have a short lifespan and from egg to adult it only takes a few weeks. They live in seasonal rock pools. This means that when the water is evaporated they all die. Their eggs are deposited in the sediments and are extremely tough. They can stay dormant for decades and will only hatch when the pool fills with water once again. The eggs can also drought and temperature extremes. Have a look!

August 17, 2020

“Blue Bird” on NaturePhotoStories.com

Read more about how this little beauty came to be. A family outing in Covid times sometimes yields more than anticipated.

Read this photo story her e >>

July 17, 2020

Black and white animal pictures

Black and white animal pictures are timeless. The way a photographer captures an animal in all its essence is something that easily transports to a piece of art. There’s so much more to a black and white photograph other than the colors. We’ll dive in to the design and beauty of black and white wildlife photography.

The Quality Of Black And White Animal Pictures

Photography was once only produced in black and white. Wildlife photography begs for the classic, fine art photography look of black and white because it takes away all distractions. The viewer is left with the animal. The lines, patterns and textures of the animal are all right there in the image. The green foliage that often surrounds the animal, the bright lights and the large trees often take over the animal’s spotlight. The black and white colors draw all of the spotlight on that animal. Emotions tell a story of the animal. It also adds a dramatic effect to the entire piece of art as a whole.

Black and White picture of brothers in arms resting in the narrow sliver of shade from a nearby dead tree. — Brothers in Arms resting in the narrow sliver of shade from a nearby dead tree.

The Timeless Quality

Fine art photography is all about using photography as a means of creative expression. It’s up to each person to decide the emotions used in the photography. One of the best things about black and white photography is the classic, timeless quality that it brings to an image. The creative expression bonds together with the timeless quality for a piece of art. Our minds instinctively often think of black and white photography as a throwback to the past. We think of these images frozen in time. These animals photographed in all of their black and white beauty could be from a century ago or from yesterday. The design is simply classic.

Minimalistic Look

Black and white animal pictures puts all of the focus on the main image. The negative space is easier to maintain in this type of art. This space is the areas of the frame that have nothing in them. The viewer focuses on the different areas of light and dark in the photo. The photographer can actually play with the negative space figuring out how to separate the main subject from the background. This gives a larger depth to the actual image. The animal in the frame seems to jump out of its space. It brings a sense of simplicity to the photo as a whole. The art is all about the animal and the lighting. The negative space is not a distraction.

Running Wildebeest captured with a longer-than-usual shutter speed in Masai Mara, Kenya
Buy this black and white animal print

Make a Statement with your black and white animal pictures

While black and white photography can be minimalistic, it can also make a statement. You can hang a large black and white photo of a lion enjoying its early morning stretching in the grass. The lion’s head back in a roar as its body rests on the ground. The black and white beauty of the lion brings the entire piece to life as it screams that its alive and ready for the day. Of course, this same piece of art can mean something different to each viewer. The large photo in black and white of an animal brings a message to the room.

Impact A Room

If you make a statement with a large photo, you can bring a big look to a small area. One piece of black and white photography can captivate your entire family. People will walk in and step back to admire your art. Many people love to put these pieces in their living area. The area above the sofa or the fireplace is usually a blank canvas for a work of art. Place a large piece like this anywhere on a large wall in your home. This wall should be able to hold the art that will display artwork full of emotions. Black and white photography creates a dramatic, luxurious look. It brings a sentimental feel to an area. One of the best things about a big black and white work of artist that the monochromatic look often complements your colorful family photos.

Black and white picture of a lion looking straight at us. — Black and White picture of a lion looking straight at the viewer. A statement piece.

The Black And White Effects

Animal photography isn’t just about a random animal grazing in the grass. It’s about the emotions the subject might convey. High-key processing allows the photographer to create different kinds of images with the same photo. One image may look cheerful because of the lighting while the same image with different lighting has a somber look. A low-key processed image is predominantly dark. Different effects or styles are all meant to convey a certain feel with the photo. The look of the animal, the motion and the action in the photo are meant to make the viewer connect with the piece of art.

Stylish Animal Artwork

One of the best things about black and white photography is it doesn’t go out of style. Animal artwork hanging in a home is stylish and classy at the same time. It doesn’t have a shelf life. The colors don’t have to go together perfectly in the room. Black and white bring a timeless look to any room. No one will argue that black and white photography is like yesterday’s green shaggy carpet or flowery wallpaper. It’s never going out of style.

Black and white animal photography brings life and art together. It conveys feelings of emotion and beautiful artwork in one place. There’s something to be said about the simple, elegant artwork of black and white animals in their own habitat.

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July 16, 2020

Vouchers

Finally I have added the gift vouchers to my online shop. I’ve had a few customers asking for gift cards or vouchers over the last couple of months. They are now available in our shop

You can buy the gift certificate for my fine art prints here

If you are stuck choosing a gift for a loved one, a friend or maybe your boss, these gift cards are excellent. Whether given as a Christmas present, anniversary present or a birthday present they are surely appreciated.

The vouchers or gift certificates have no expiry date and can be combined with any available promotions or offers.

It can can be used as many times as you want until the balance has been spent. If your purchase exceeds the amount on the gift card, you can pay the excess amount with any other available payment method.

The gift card or gift voucher are available in different amount to suit your budget.

July 12, 2020

Photography Fine Art Prints – 5 reasons why you should buy online

Everyone has that one piece of art that changed their lives in some way. Maybe it was a painting in a museum they saw in a foreign country. Or maybe it was a black-and-white photograph they saw in an art gallery. They wish they would’ve bought it, but they can’t find it online and can’t remember the name of the artist. Maybe it was photography fine art prints in a mall that had been sold when they went back for it. Whatever it was, everyone has some version of “the one that got away.” They can see that piece clearly in their minds, but no matter how hard they search, they’ve never been able to find a physical copy again.

Fortunately, in today’s modern art world, it’s never been easier to buy photographic prints of your favorite pieces. And if my work has touched you in some way, why not invest in a fine art photography print that you can have hanging right in your own house? It won’t be one of those pieces that you can vaguely recall, but can’t quite remember the name of the artist–why, you ask yourself, didn’t you write it down? Instead, the piece will be vividly alive in your bedroom, office, or living room for you to enjoy every day. As you walk past the piece, you might smile to yourself thinking about how much you love the photo and how happy you are to own it.

You work hard for your money. Why not spoil yourself a little? If that’s not enough, here’s a few other reasons why you should buy photography fine art prints online.

1. You’re Directly Helping the Artist

If you’re a fan of an artist, why not consider being a patron of the arts? Centuries ago, kings and queens used to show appreciation to their favorite artists by funding their lifestyles so they could continue making artwork. You can continue this ancient tradition by buying pieces from your favorite artists. When you buy fine art prints online, you’re directly funding the artist so they can continue to make art for a living and produce works that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Me, myself and I at Hermaness, Shetland Islands, Scotland Foto: Jennifer White LaBouff

Buying prints online might seem expensive, but consider this. You’re not just paying for a photograph. You’re paying for the skills, knowledge, and expertise that the photographer developed over a course of several years, practising in various places and traveling across the world to perfect his craft. When you see an award-winning photograph, you’re not seeing the thousands of images that were discarded along the way or the patience it took to get the image in question. Being a skilful photographer constantly creating great images takes years of dedication. It’s not as simple as “point and shoot”. If it were, everyone would do it. You’re paying for talent and the years of hard work that finally came together to make that piece that’s hanging in your office or bedroom.

2. You’re Making an Investment

Everyone’s familiar with the one basic rule of investing: don’t buy anything that’s going to depreciate in value. For example, cars start to depreciate the moment you drive them off the lot. Houses, on the other hand, tend to go up in value over time. And fine art prints are the same. And as artists gain more attention in the industry, gaining in popularity and collecting awards and accolades, their work becomes increasingly valuable.

Imagine if you were a beginning photographer who took a picture today. You might be able to sell that photo for a few bucks. But if you became a world-renowned photographer in your later years, that same snapshot would be viewed as your “early work” and might sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. As the artist becomes more famous, their work becomes more valuable.

Photography fine art print in black and white of a Grey seal bull on a beach in the UK. — Grey seal bull in black and white.

3. You’re Sharing Your Love of Fine art prints with Others

Have you ever seen a photograph that blew you away, and you wanted others to have that feeling, too? You could show them a picture online, but somehow the image on the screen never seems to compare to seeing the image in person. When you own fine photography prints, you’re creating a veritable gallery in your home of your favorite works. Your friends and family can see your favorite pieces in person, instead of having to squint at a screen. “Where did that come from?” “Where did you buy it?”

Additionally, you might inspire others to start hanging art prints in their own home or office. We all know that one person who scoffs at art and photography, saying there’s nothing “artistic” about a simple photo or a bunch of lines on a canvas. But when they see a great piece in person, they might start to change their mind. Fine art can move the seemingly immovable, and turn even the hardest skeptic into an art appreciator. They might even go online and start browsing prints on their own or be moved to pick up a camera themselves.

4. You’re Getting a Signed Product that was Certified by the Artist

When you buy directly from the artist, you know you’re paying for a high-quality product. My prints are printed on thick, heavy duty paper that’s signed and numbered by me and comes with a certificate of authenticity. When you buy a limited edition print, you’re truly paying for a unique product that you won’t find anywhere else. And if you ever decide to sell, you’ll have the signature and certificate to prove that you’re selling the real thing and not a fake or a cheap rip-off.

5. Pay for your photography fine art prints in Installments

When choosing to buy prints directly from me I offer a unique advantage in that you can pay for your print in instalments, rather than forking out the whole purchase prize at once. You can buy one of my prints by setting up an interest-free instalment plan. You’ll be able to order your print and enjoy it as soon as possible without waiting for a massive cash windfall.

Please contact me if you are interested in this option

When you order online, you also have the option of choosing from different sizes. Before you make a purchase, decide where you’re going to hang your print and see how much space on the wall you’ll need. You can choose a large piece if you want to make it the centerpiece of the wall, or a smaller print if you’d prefer to display it with other prints in your collection. Don’t be afraid to break out the measuring tape. You don’t want your print to arrive and suddenly realize that you don’t have enough space on the wall.

Find and buy photography fine art prints in my shop

July 7, 2020

Animal photography black and white.

Many people have asked me why I often create animal photography in black and white when nature is not black and white. A very good question…

Colour is a distraction

I am photographer that loves lines, patterns and shapes in my photography. Maybe it doesn’t show in all my images but that is where my heart lies. I feel that colours often add distraction to all the wonderful lines, textures, patterns and shapes that we find in nature and when photographing animals. Granted – not all animal photography is great in black and white. I’m always looking for contrasts, patterns, lines, textures, and shapes when I am out and about. Like with everything the more you look for it and practise the better it will be.

For Beautiful black and white photography inspiration

"Walking with Seals"
Fine art animal photography black and white print from my Premium Collection.
Two Grey seals at a beach in the UK with the rising sun as a background. — **“Walking with Seals”**
Fine art print in black and white from my Premium Collection.
Two Grey seals at a beach in the UK with the rising sun as a background.
Purchase this print here.

The minimalist look and the timelessness in a good black and white photograph is something that really attracts me and my visual mind.

“But you don’t shoot in black and white!” I often hear. Yes that is true. I like to keep my options open. If I shoot in black and white I can never get those colours back if I feel the image is better in colour. Shooting animal photography in colour and converting to black and white gives me options.

Colourful Elephant-eared chameleon in Amber Mountain National Park in northern Madagascar.

Not Always

Black and white wildlife photography is great but as mentioned previously, every photo or situation is not a great candidate for black and white. Sometimes we need those colours to be able to show. An amazingly colourful chameleon from Madagascar for example… Would almost be a sin and plain rude to shoot it in black and white. 🙂

July 3, 2020

Behind the lens: “From the Abyss”

Hell’s Valley, Jigokudani, Japan 2017

This image of the left hand of a Japanese Macaque, also known as Snow Monkey, is one of my most successful images to date. Category Winner in Travel Photographer of the Year 2017, exhibited in various locations around the world (Dubai, Portugal, London etc.) and a fine art print purchased by a Premier league player.

The Snow monkeys of Japan are very well known by wildlife photographers for various reasons. They are accessible, they are numerous and they are not afraid. Basically they are an easy target. The hard part of photographing them is to create something special or unique. THAT is the challenge of photographing a previously well covered subject.

Let me paint the picture for you. These Snow monkeys are found in a place where they are fed regularly to keep them coming back. It is relatively easy to access the area and for these reasons it can be somewhat crowded at times. The monkeys are well known worldwide due to the fact that they have learnt that bathing in the geothermal hot pools of the area has a number of benefits. An uncountable number of funny but also high quality images have emerged from this particular spot over the years.

I traveled to Jigokudani, Japan as a co-guide for Wild Nature Photo Adventures and we spent two days with the monkeys. As previously mentioned it is very easy to get good shots of the monkeys. They are close to you and they are easy to approach. They are completely wild animals but they are used to human presence due to a daily feeding programme.

The first day I found it hard to be creative and selective to be honest. The whole experience was a bit overwhelming. Monkeys everywhere! On the second day I felt more relaxed and “in the zone”.

You could easily fall into concentrating on portraits of these very cute animals or shoot the interesting interaction between the individuals. Just because it is so easy… After some time though, I got bored with these shots and my creative juices started flowing. As always, when you start experimenting and trying to be creative you get a very mixed bag of shots. Some are just silly and laughable whilst others turn out to be unique keepers. As with most things, the more you practice, the bigger the bag of keepers.

At one point, whilst trying to find a good spot amongst the visitors, an image idea materialised. If I compose the photo in a way that only one of the hands of the Snow monkey is in the frame, I will create an image of a scary or eerie nature. It would look like something is trying to climb up from below. Of course, this took some patience to find a monkey that was positioned in the right way with its hand in the right angle, the right light etc etc. But after some patience I got what I wanted and bagged one of those keepers. In this case it turned out to be a very successful image.

Prints for purchase of this image can be found here

July 2, 2020

Kalahari Queen is a winner

Great News! One of my absolute favourite fine art wildlife images is a Winner of the Nature category in Malta International Photo Awards. Thousands of submissions from all over the world and this image from a special place in Africa is one of the winners. Contestants from over 90 countries took part.

If you follow my work on social media you know that this very same image together with one of my other black and white photography prints were awarded in another competition (International Photo Awards) not so long ago.

The image I’m talking about is my fine art photography prints of a Female Caracal from the Kalahari Desert somewhere on the border between South Africa and Botswana.

The Caracal is an elusive animal hard to capture on camera. Few people get to see it to start with, but if you are lucky it is very often seen in bushy or grassy habitats making it hard to photograph. After 4 long weeks in the desert and a few sightings of this lovely lady but no decent shots I went back for another 2 weeks the year after. On that trip and after a lot of perserverance I finally managed to capture this elusive Queen on photo. The Kalahari Queen…

Thanks to the judges of Malta International Photo Award for choosing my image as a winner and congratulations to all the other winners!

This image is also available as a Limited Edition Fine Art Print in various sizes in my shop.

View this print in the shop >>

The Malta International Photography Award (MIPA) is a premier photo award that strives to share and promote the art and passion of photography at all levels from all across the world.

We aim to provide aspiring photographers from all around the globe with the chance to share their passion and world. We strive to connect the world through photography, and showcase the nature and cultures of different regions of the world to a global audience.

MIPA wants to provide international photographers with a deep insight into different approaches towards photography, and we hope to encourage people to push their personal and professional boundaries.

The ‘Malta’ element is an essential part of the conception of this international photo award. The country’s national language, Maltese, is rooted in Arabic but heavily influenced by Romance tongues. The modern people of Malta are descendent from countries in the Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean and Northern European. The islands’ history dates as far back as 3500 BC, bestowing them with an enormous breadth of cultural and artistic heritage. The country is an emerging cosmopolitan home to an ever growing population of expats that have travelled from all over the world to live and work there.

As such, the Malta International Photo Award wants to adopt the Maltese outlook on life – we look outside of the confines of a small island to the rest of the world, and we welcome everyone to join in.

Dalmatian Pelicans on ice with mountain backdrop

March 4, 2020

Success in Memorial Maria Luisa

My image “Dalmatians on Ice” has been awarded an Honourable Mention in the 30th edition of the Spanish International Photo competition – Memorial Maria Luisa.

The “Memorial María Luisa International Mountain and Nature Photo Contest” is created as a means of remembering the mountaineer and nature lover who tragically died in a mountain accident on 18th November 1990.

A total of 15.000 images was submitted to the competition.

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