#15 Artist interview - Anna Stelloo

In our blog series "Meet the Artist," we introduce you to a new visual artist in just five questions.

You’ll discover their unique style, creative process, and personal story

In slechts 5 vragen kom je meer te weten over de stijl, beweegredenen
en ervaringen van de desbetreffende beeldmaker.

This time, we spoke with Anna, a Dutch wildlife photographer who found her heart in nature, foxes, and wolves. In this interview, she shares her journey, go-to gear, and three valuable tips for anyone passionate about wildlife or nature photography.

Curious European Hamster - 17138

1. Who are you, what do you do, and what gear do you use most?

"I’m Anna, 52 years old, and I first picked up photography about ten years ago when I was still walking on crutches due to an accident. My partner at the time gave me a Nikon D5200 to encourage me to go outside more.

That decision changed everything. I discovered both healing and joy in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, a beautiful nature reserve. What started as recovery therapy quickly turned into a passion.

I began experimenting with different styles: cityscapes, landscapes... but I truly fell in love with wildlife photography and especially deer, foxes, and wolves.

In everyday life, I work as a doctor’s assistant. In my free time, you’ll most likely find me outside with my camera or spending time with my daughter.

In 2023, I was asked by Wildpix to guide photo tours, which took me to Spain, Poland (for wolves), Simanga (for the Big Five), and once again Spain. Only this time to photograph the Iberian lynx. These trips focus on observing and capturing specific animals in their natural habitat.

Gear:

• 
  

• Nikon D500 (wildlife specialist)

• Nikon Z6 II

• Nikon D5200 (my first camera)

• Sigma 150–600mm f/5.6–6.3 (Contemporary)

• Nikon 70–200mm f/2.8

• Nikon 105mm f/1.8 macro

• Sigma 10–20mm f/4.0

• Nikon 35mm f/1.8

• Nikon 70–300mm f/5.6

• 12mm f/2.8

Playing young foxes - 17140

2. What style of photography do you prefer and why?

"Definitely mammals. What moves me is how you can capture emotion or character in animals through photography. I’ve always had a strong connection to animals, even as a child.

Foxes and wolves are my favorites. Foxes are highly social creatures. They live in families, care for one another, and display behavior that often feels incredibly human.

When you approach them with love and respect, they start recognizing you – and even from a distance, a bond forms. That’s how you get the most intimate and authentic images, without using food as bait"

3. Who is your biggest inspiration in photography?

"When I started, I joined a Facebook group for photographers in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen. There, I discovered the work of Roeselien Raimond, who specializes in fox photography. Her images are absolutely stunning and have definitely inspired me.

At the same time, I believe in developing your own style. Of course, we all absorb influences from others, especially online, but for me, it’s important to continue evolving my own visual identity..

Wolf in golden light - 17124

4. What’s your favorite photo you’ve taken?

"That’s a tough question, but one image immediately comes to mind a moment with a wolf that I’ll never forget. While I was photographing, I felt a deep connection with the animal. The timing, the light, the look… everything came together.

Leopard in the night - 17136

5. What 3 tips would you share with other photographers?

1. Be patient

Photography, especially in nature, takes time. You need persistence. But the rewards are worth it.

2. Stay true to yourself

Don’t let yourself be pushed or pressured by others – even on popular photo spots. Respect others, but carve your own path.

3. Learn animal behavior

Understanding how animals move and behave will help you anticipate key moments. For example, when a fox lays its ears back and makes a sound, another fox is likely approaching. A wolf that sits and flicks its tail? It’s probably about to leap. These observations make the difference between a good shot and a magical one."