October’s wildlife photographer of the month – Talia Hassan

Talia Hassan, a 22-year-old native of Bromley, England, has emerged as a dedicated advocate for wildlife through her passion for photography. Her journey into the captivating world of wildlife photography was born out of a profound love for animals and a thirst for knowledge. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in zoology and a master’s degree in evolutionary and behavioural ecology, Talia set out on a mission to capture the natural world’s beauty.

In 2017, a transformative trip to South Africa marked a pivotal moment in Talia’s life. It was there that she first encountered the breathtaking wildlife that would become her muse. The enchanting allure of these creatures ignited a spark within her, setting her on a path of discovery. Eager to share her experiences, she established her platform on Instagram, @tmhphotogrxphy, where she could document and showcase the mesmerizing moments she captured.

Talia’s heart, however, had a special place for cheetahs. Her initial encounter with wild cheetahs in 2017 left an indelible mark. This experience was the catalyst that drove her to return to Africa, specifically Namibia, where she could immerse herself in cheetah conservation and research.

During her time in Namibia, Talia’s lens captured not only stunning images but also revealed intriguing behaviours. One such moment was when she witnessed a cheetah using a tree as a vantage point, a behaviour that she artfully captured in her photographs. Yet, her journey was not just about visuals; it also delved into the realm of conservation strategies.

Talia learned about innovative methods designed to protect cheetahs while ensuring the coexistence of these magnificent creatures with local communities. One standout approach involved the use of radio collars to track predators like cheetahs and leopards. This technology played a pivotal role in alerting farmers to the presence of these animals, facilitating the safe relocation of livestock, and ultimately reducing the need for lethal predator control measures.

Talia’s commitment to the cause is unwavering. Her photography and volunteer work serve as a powerful tool to raise awareness and disseminate knowledge about cheetahs. In the face of extinction pressures, she stands as a beacon of hope, rallying others to join her mission and contribute to the preservation of these extraordinary creatures.