By Sadie Shields 

In the world of wildlife photography, Krisztina Scheef approaches the art with the mindset of patience, ethics and education over the pursuit of aiming for the perfect shot.

Appearing as the Keynote Speaker for Godwit Days on Saturday April 18, Scheef discussed how she built her career in wildlife photography across the globe while also mentoring and encouraging young photographers to advocate for conservation. 

Her interest in photography began with a broader love of nature. Over time, her passion evolved into a career centered around sharing these photography experiences with others.

“I want to share with people who might or might not be able to see it themselves,” Scheef said.

Scheef believes that wildlife photography has the power to shape the way people view the environment and encourage them to protect it. 

“The more you see and fall in love with nature, the more protective you’re gonna get,” Scheef said.

In addition to having her photos featured in many magazines, Scheef mentors young women through Girls Who Click, a nonprofit focused on increasing representation in nature photography. 

Through workshops and the mentorship program, Scheef works with students to develop both the technical skills and understanding of ethical practices required to be a wildlife photographer.

Ethics play a critical role in the work Scheef creates. She serves on the ethics committee for the North American Nature Photography Association, where she promotes responsible wildlife photography.

“We are playing in their home, in their world, “Scheef said. “We need to be ethical and nice to them.”

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is expecting immediate results. New photographers often assume they will capture multiple high quality images without understanding animal behavior or the time required to hone their skills. Scheef points out how important it is to learn how animals behave, and how to approach without disturbing the wildlife they are photographing. Scheef discourages chasing animals, disturbing nests or using repeated playback calls to attract birds.

“These are things that can stress the animal,” Scheef said, noting that such behavior can disrupt feeding patterns and leave young birds vulnerable.

While capturing a strong image can take days or hours, the process itself is part of the reward.

For Scheef, some of the most meaningful moments come not from her work, but from teaching others. Watching young photographers become successful and develop an appreciation for wildlife is one of the most rewarding parts of her career.

“Seeing in their eyes… ‘I got a good photo,’” Scheef said. “Those are rewarding moments.”

Sadie is a junior communications major, journalism minor at Cal Poly Humboldt who has an interest in covering and taking photos for sports and wildlife journalism, and a slight interest in breaking news. She can be reached at sls331@humboldt.edu.