From a young age, Alexandra Surkova’s bond with nature was undeniable. Growing up in a small apartment, where animals roamed freely, one of her earliest memories is of an old, lemon-colored bathtub filled with baby chicks, dogs, a cat, and a turtle. This constant presence of animals ignited a passion that would later define her career. Today, 30 years later, living in the countryside near Madrid, Surkova is still surrounded by animals, with her home often shared by up to five dogs.
Her journey into photography began as a means to capture fleeting moments. Surkova soon realized that photography had the power to freeze time—preserving not just images, but emotions, memories, and moments that would otherwise be lost. The idea of creating a visual diary through daily photos fascinated her, and this curiosity blossomed into a lifelong dedication to wildlife photography.
Featured in National Geographic, El País, and endorsed by Sony, Surkova’s photographs are not just artistic accomplishments—they are quiet acts of preservation. For her, each frame offers a thoughtful glimpse into the raw beauty and complex behaviors of the natural world. Read her story and discover how her dedication to capturing nature’s unrefined beauty, coupled with her unique photographic style, has contributed to the evolution of wildlife photography in this exclusive edition of “Lens Stories.”
What is Lens Stories?
Photography isn’t just about snapping a picture; it’s an art form that captures the essence of a moment and tells a story across time. Each photo reflects the personal touch of the photographer, shaped by their journey and creative vision. Through “Lens Stories,” CYME celebrates the photographers who transform ordinary moments into extraordinary visual stories. We explore their creative processes, uncovering the influences and techniques that shape their work. As innovators developing tools to support photographers, we’re proud to be a part of their mission to preserve fleeting moments and turn them into timeless works of art.
Alexandra's Journey from Zero Camera Skills to Wildlife Photography
My story is a bit surreal. Just five years ago, I barely knew how a camera worked, and I’m not even sure I could have told a vulture from an eagle—well, maybe I’m exaggerating a little, but there’s some truth to it! My life took a complete 180-degree turn thanks to the most unexpected twist of fate.
One day, one of my very few Instagram followers—a total stranger—asked me for a mailing address. I thought he wanted to send me a postcard… but instead, he sent me a Sony 200-600mm lens as a gift. When I opened the box, I nearly had a heart attack! I had no idea what to do with such a treasure.
It happened to coincide with the COVID pandemic—when the streets fell silent, emptied of people, yet the natural world seemed more alive than ever. With this incredible gift in my hands, I bought a camera and started going out to “hunt” with it.
I remember my very first wildlife photo like it was yesterday: I spent countless hours in 40-degree heat, sweating inside a tiny tent, just for the chance to see a little owl perch in front of me for mere minutes. A normal person probably wouldn’t have repeated that experience. But I’ve never considered myself normal.
The rush of adrenaline when that tiny owl appeared was so intense that, from that day on, I couldn’t think of anything else—Where and how can I see wild animals up close?
Fast forward two years, and I left behind a 15-year career in journalism to dedicate myself fully to wildlife photography. And here I am today—leading photography workshops around the world, sharing the joy of what I love most with people who are just as passionate about the wild as I am.
Patience, Humor, and Animals: The Philosophy of Alexandra Surkova
My approach to photography? Well, it’s a mix of patience, obsession, and a bit of masochism. I willingly spend hours (sometimes days) waiting for an animal to appear—only for it to show up the moment I look away. But that’s the magic of wildlife photography—you never know what’s going to happen.
As for my photographic style, I’d say it’s a blend of storytelling with a touch of humor at times. I strive to capture not just the beauty of wildlife, but also the emotions, the atmosphere, and that untamed energy that makes nature so mesmerizing.
And if I had to sum it up in one line? I chase the wild—sometimes it lets me catch it… and when it doesn’t, I simply enjoy the privilege of being close to it, even if just for a moment.
Do you like Alexandra's story?
5 Lessons from Alexandra Surkova’s Experience in Capturing Animals
Patience is not just a virtue—it’s a survival skill
Nature doesn’t owe you a photo
Light is your best (or worst) friend
The best camera is the one you know how to use
If you don’t enjoy the process, you’re doing it wrong
When an Elephant Played Hide-and-Seek with Alexandra Surkova
If I had to pick just one photo from my portfolio, it might be this one—because, honestly, it still makes me smile.
Armed with just one camera and a 400mm lens, I suddenly found myself way too close to an elephant that definitely didn’t fit in my frame. And with no room to step back! Then I spotted a nearby tree with textures almost identical to the elephant’s skin. That’s when the idea hit me—what if I could make it look like the elephant was playing hide-and-seek with me?
I focused on the tree, hoping the elephant would move behind it. And, as if it read my mind, it did—giving me this perfect moment where the trunk truly looks like an extension of the tree. Like it thought, “If I can’t see them, they can’t see me.”
Sorry, big guy… but we totally see you.
Get Alexandra Surkova's Advice for Perfecting Your Animal Photography Skills
Animals don’t pose – embrace the chaos
Sometimes, less is more
No one cares what settings you used—tell a story
Get comfortable with failure—it happens to everyone
Light is everything—use it wisely
Patience isn’t optional—it’s essential
Backup your photos—because disaster is inevitable
Don’t forget to enjoy the moment
Show Your Support for Wildlife Photographer Alexandra Surkova
Join us in honoring the incredible talent of photographers and the impactful stories they capture! Immerse yourself in the stunning world of wildlife photography through Alexandra Surkova’s lens on Instagram. By admiring and sharing their work, you contribute to showcasing their artistic vision and the unforgettable moments they capture.
