Pangolin Podcast Ep. 20: Meet the Pro with Wim van den Heever

Welcome to another episode of the Pangolin Podcast where Toby Jermyn, our charismatic host, dives into the world of wildlife photography. In this installment, Toby sits down with Wim Van Den Heever, an internationally acclaimed wildlife and landscape photographer, to discuss his remarkable journey, unforgettable images, and the stories that go beyond the lens.

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The Art of Patience and Perseverance

Wim’s photography is a testament to patience and dedication. Toby and Wim delve into the years-long process of capturing a one-of-a-kind photograph of a brown hyena in the ghostly landscape of Kolmanskop. This acclaimed shot took a decade of attempts with camera traps—a testament to Wim’s persistence in the face of countless challenges, from equipment failure to unpredictable weather.

Wim’s stories underscore the importance of understanding animal behavior to get that perfect shot, highlighting a photograph of a leopard in mid-hunt. This particular photo took days of observing the leopard’s habits, understanding its patterns, and patiently waiting for the right moment.

Innovating in Wildlife Photography

Innovation is at the heart of Wim’s work. From using camera traps to capturing unique angles, his photographs push the boundaries of conventional wildlife photography. One example was setting up a camera in the water to capture lechwe leaping, showcasing Wim’s ability to think outside the box.

A Tribute to Craig, the Elephant

One of the emotional peaks of the conversation comes when Wim discusses his work with Craig, a majestic elephant from the Amboseli region. Wim speaks with deep affection about the connection he developed with Craig over years of photographing him. This segment reminds us of the profound bond that can form between humans and animals and the significant impact these creatures have on our lives.

The Art of Patience and Timing

When asked for his top tip for aspiring wildlife photographers, Walter emphasizes adaptability and equipment versatility, advising newcomers to expect the unexpected. Close encounters need nothing more than a medium-sized lens, or sometimes a mere phone camera, capturing the unfiltered beauty of the Chobe’s wildlife.

Admiring Fellow Photographers

In a heartwarming segment, Wim shares an image taken by a fellow photographer that he admires: a breathtaking underwater shot of a polar bear by Paul Nicklin. It’s images like these that inspire Wim to push his creative boundaries further.

An Exciting Giveaway and Conclusion

Wim and Toby announce an exciting giveaway for their audience—a chance to win a signed print of one of Wim’s photographs and a special t-shirt. They invite listeners and readers to participate, further engaging the community in the beauty of wildlife photography. *Watch or listen to the Podcast to get the answer, then enter HERE

The episode wraps up with Toby encouraging listeners to share their thoughts and join the Pangolin Photo Safaris community. As fans, we’re reminded not just of the beauty captured in each photograph, but of the hard work, dedication, and storytelling skills required to bring these wildlife moments to life.