Meet our experience provider – Rachel Sinclair – the talented photographer behind the Wildlife Photography Workshop. We take a peek into Rachel’s world of animals, photography, and veganism!
How did you get into photography?
I wanted to be a graphic novel illustrator but I was too slow at drawing, so my art teacher suggested I try photography, and here we are!
Is there anything you wish you knew when you started taking photos?
I wish I knew how to take photos of animals sooner. I started my photographic career in a studio taking photos of families and weddings and even though I was grateful for the opportunity, I knew that was not what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Why did you choose wildlife/animals as your niche?
I have always loved animals, I became a vegetarian when I was 11 years old, much to my parent’s surprise. I really feel at home and comfortable around animals. I love watching them and learning about their behaviour.
What does a normal day look like for you?
All my days are different to be honest. Sometimes I am up early to photograph wildlife around the UK or teach students, and if I’m not doing that I will be running, either in the gym or in the Peak District.
What can people expect when they book your photography workshop?
I hope they will feel very comfortable no matter their experience, or lack of. I enjoy teaching beginners as much as I do more advanced photographers. My aim is that everyone goes home feeling a bit more confident about their camera and how to take fantastic photos.
What do you love most about your job?
I love teaching people about animal behaviour and how to incorporate certain things in their photos. I like also like meeting people who love animals as much as I do; being around like-minded people is always enjoyable and inspiring!
With animals and wildlife as your subjects, have you had any scary experiences?
I didn’t find it scary, but we did drive right under a tree with two male lions right above our heads in the Maasai Mara. I LOVED it 😄
What is your favourite thing/animal to photograph?
I love sitting with herds of African elephants. I can sit and watch them for hours. They are such interesting and majestic animals.
Do you have a favourite photo you would like to share with us?
A little birdie has told us you’re vegan, when did you become a vegan and why?
I became vegan in 2017 – I really don’t agree with how cows are treated in the dairy industry.
If you could give one piece of advice to new vegans this Veganuary, what would it be?
Check all the labels because some things are unknowingly vegan. And definitely reward yourself with some tasty treats like Ben and Jerry’s vegan ice cream on the weekend! Find some quick and easy recipes and some healthy oven meals so you don’t have to cook every single meal.
Favourite vegan meal/snack?
Chocolate brownie! Pasta with a cashew nut and vegetable creamy sauce. Ooh and coconutty aubergine and butternut curry.
Anything new for 2023?
I’ll be running my first-ever marathon to raise money for MND Association (Motor Neurone Disease) in memory of my mum who died 5 years ago of that dreadful disease. You can follow my training journey on Instagram or Facebook: @bellybumrunning
If you’d like to donate to Rachel’s fundraising campaign, her Just Giving page can be found here: https://justgiving.com/fundraising/rachsinclair86
Check out Rachel’s Wildlife Photography Workshops at Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Chester Zoo.