This time we wanted to ask Colemont some questions related to the photo contest; however, first we wanted the photographer to remind our readers how his journey into wildlife photography, particularly focusing on squirrels, began. Niki shared with us: “My encounter with the squirrels began as a serendipitous moment one summer day in 2016. While walking in my girlfriend's grandmother's garden, I was startled by the sudden sound of cracking branches and rustling leaves. To my astonishment, a squirrel emerged, running almost over my feet! My heart raced at this close encounter with nature.”
The photographer continued: “That fleeting moment sparked a newfound curiosity about this backyard wildlife. I wanted to see more of these bushy-tailed creatures. So I set up a squirrel feeder and stocked it with walnuts, hoping to entice them to stay. Over time (3 months), my patience paid off. Not just one, but a family of four squirrels now regularly visits the feeder. It was a beautiful start of something magical.”
Colemont’s been featured in One Eyeland's list of the best wildlife photographers and ranked in the 2nd position in Belgium. We were wondering how it feels to be recognized among such esteemed peers. The squirrel photographer told us: “Winning a photography competition is a great way to boost my confidence and to motivate me to enter more award programs as there is no better way to get recognition in the photography world! I now have greater self-assurance in presenting my abilities to the world. Prior to venturing into photography, I had doubts about the quality of my work.”
We were also curious about what, in the photographer’s opinion, sets his squirrel photography apart and makes it resonate with a global audience. Niki said: “I firmly believe in thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of traditional photography. My passion lies in experimenting with different techniques and angles to present a unique point of view that truly captures the essence of each subject.What truly distinguishes my work is the extended periods of time I dedicate to studying my subjects. By immersing myself in their world, I am able to gain a deeper understanding of their behavior, habits, and interactions. This patient approach allows me to anticipate the perfect moment and capture that elusive shot that truly tells a story.
In a world where fleeting moments are often missed, I take pride in dedicating enough time to ensure every shot is perfectly timed. This commitment to patience and precision allows me to create images that evoke emotions and transport viewers into the mesmerizing world of wildlife.”
Lastly, we asked Colemont what advice he’d like to give to aspiring wildlife photographers, especially those interested in capturing images of unique subjects like squirrels. First, the photographer mentioned: “Spending time with squirrels: Getting to know the behavior of squirrels is indeed essential for capturing great shots. Observing them in their natural habitat will help you understand their movements, patterns, and habits. This knowledge will enable you to anticipate their next move and be prepared to capture the perfect shot.”
The next important thing according to Niki is: “Individual squirrel characteristics: Just like humans, each squirrel has its own unique personality and behavior. Some may be more curious and approachable, while others might be more cautious and skittish. By spending time with them, you can start to recognize these individual characteristics and adjust your photography approach accordingly.”
Finally, Colemont shared a pro tip useful for squirrel photography enthusiasts: “Using sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds can be a useful tool for attracting squirrels and keeping them in one place for longer periods. Squirrels love sunflower seeds and will spend time opening them one by one, allowing you more time to focus and capture your shot. However, it's important to note that feeding wildlife should be done responsibly and in moderation to avoid dependency or negative impacts on their natural behavior.”
