January Photographer Takeover: Meet Wildlife Photographer: Jakub Zurek

We’re kicking off 2026 with something special. For our very first Photographer Takeover of 2026, we’re delighted to introduce Jakub Zurek, a UK-based wildlife photographer whose work celebrates the beauty, power and individuality of animals from around the world.

Through his lens, Jakub captures fleeting moments that might otherwise go unnoticed – moments that remind us why protecting wildlife and their habitats matters more than ever.

Life behind the camera

Jakub’s passion for wildlife photography began early. An animal lover from a young age, he grew up fascinated by different species, their behaviours and the environments they call home. That curiosity quickly turned into creativity when he picked up his father’s camera and began photographing his favourite animals – cats.

For Jakub, photography is more than documentation; it’s an art form.

“Photography is unique in that it can capture incredible details of a special moment that may only last a second. It could be a fleeting moment of eye contact with a cheetah or an action shot of a split-second dive from a peregrine falcon.”

His work reflects a deep respect for wildlife and a constant desire to learn, observe and tell meaningful stories through images.

Photographing wildlife across the UK

Based in the UK, Jakub has access to a wide range of world-class zoological collections, many of which actively support conservation initiatives, including CCF.

One of his favourite locations is The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, internationally recognised for its work in the conservation and rescue of wild cats. Jakub has also photographed animals at ethical and conservation-focused organisations such as Marwell Zoo and Howletts, where he enjoys spending time learning individual animals’ behaviours and routines.

Each location, he explains, offers something different: “The best image is the one you are going to take tomorrow.”

While Jakub may not work directly in field conservation, his photography plays an important role in advocacy and awareness. In an age where artificial intelligence-generated imagery is becoming increasingly common, he believes real wildlife photography is more important than ever.

By sharing authentic images from real places, Jakub hopes to inspire people to connect with wildlife and support genuine conservation organisations doing vital work on the ground.

Unforgettable wildlife encounters

Among Jakub’s most memorable experiences is a 2025 trip to Indonesia, where he photographed Komodo dragons in their natural habitat on Komodo and Rinca islands.

Coming face to face with a large male dragon – calm and surprisingly relaxed in the presence of humans – is a moment he says he will never forget.

Looking ahead, Jakub hopes to photograph cheetahs and other big cats in the wild. Until then, capturing their personalities in managed conservation settings, especially during vocal feeding times, remains a highlight of his work.

Photographing cheetahs up close

Cheetahs hold a special place in Jakub’s portfolio. As one of the few diurnal big cat species, they are often active during daylight hours, making them particularly rewarding to photograph.

Jakub enjoys editing his images to bring viewers closer to the details that make cheetahs so striking – especially their vivid orange eyes and the contrast created by their iconic black tear lines.

Favourite species behind the lens

While Jakub appreciates all wildlife, predators sit firmly at the top of his list.

Big cats and birds of prey, in particular, fascinate him:

“There is something special about coming face to face with an apex predator and capturing them through your camera’s viewfinder.”

 

Advice for aspiring wildlife photographers

For those dreaming of becoming wildlife photographers, Jakub offers encouraging advice.

With mirrorless technology advancing rapidly, second-hand DSLRs are now more accessible than ever, making photography easier to get into. Combined with the abundance of free learning resources online, he believes anyone willing to practise and stay curious can develop their skills.

“Photography for me is the most rewarding form of art.”

 

Supporting real artists

Jakub leaves us with an important message:

“Please support real artists sharing real content – it is the only way to avoid the onslaught of artificial intelligence content that is so detrimental to society and our planet.”

 

Don’t forget to check more of Jakub’s work on social media: @JZWildlifePhoto