The Sturgheons – Kai Glomp – Photographer

photographer

kai glomp

From Alaska to Madagascar. Hawaii, Kamchatka, Baja California and Zimbabwe. Where hasn't this guy been anyway? Numerous tours have taken Kai to these and other spectacular countries time and again. During this work as a tour guide he found his love for wildlife and nature photography. In our interview he takes us to his favourite destinations.

The Sturgheons: First, please tell us a little bit about yourself! Who are you, where are you from, what do you do?

Kai Glomp: My name is Kai, I come from Stuttgart and have been working for almost 30 years as a tour guide in the field of nature, adventure and photo tours. Did I really just say 30 years?

Which attributes would best describe you?

I am a positive thinking person, actually always in a good mood.

How did you start travelling and photographing?

The long distance journeys began after my civil service at that time. I absolutely wanted to go abroad for a longer time. By chance I got to know a pair of brothers from the travel industry.

What aspect of your work makes you the happiest?

Spending time in nature. To share the beautiful moments and experiences with fellow travellers.

What kind of equipment do you work with? Are there must-haves?

Meanwhile I travel with "big" luggage depending on the destination. For Tanzania I have 3 cases with me. One is a 600mm fixed focal length, on the other camera is a 100-400mm zoom and on the third one either a 24-70 or 70-200 or a 300mm fixed focal length. For animal observation nothing goes over focal length. (smiles)

What do you think makes a good nature and wildlife photographer? Or is there even a idol photographer for you?

What counts when observing animals is patience ... Animals, like humans, have a regular routine. It's about catching the special moment. The moment when you do a bungee jump, for example. Idol photographers ... mmmmh ... there are already some who take cool pictures, for example Jens Cullmann.

What do you think distinguishes you from other nature and animal photographers?

Well, on my travels the fun of taking pictures and experiencing together is in the foreground. With pleasure I pass on my experience, my knowledge to the guests. You don't necessarily have to be at a certain place at a certain time of day to photograph a certain motif.

What can you improve on?

The whole life consists of continuous learning. Be like a sponge and absorb all positive things.

Do you have tips and tricks for those who want to start with animal and nature photography?

Bring a lot of patience and be flexible. Enjoy even the little things. What I mean to say is that nature is not bookable. It is possible that you are in a national park, which is known for its bear population and while you are there you will not see a single bear.

Do you think that countries should regulate access to their natural tourist sites more strictly?

That's a difficult question. What should the regulations be ... by higher prices or by the number of tourists? In times of social media it has become very easy to find out so-called "secret or hidden places".

What are your next projects?

Due to Corona, my travel destinations for this year are probably all cancelled. Maybe it will work out with Madagascar in October, otherwise next year I want to go to Tanzania and Chile.

You have travelled almost around the globe – where is your personal favourite place for beautiful photos?

I don't really have a favorite country. In Alaska I love the bears, whales and the landscape. In Africa it is the magnificent sunrises and sunsets and the fascinating animal world.