From the rhythmic pulse of the African savannah to the hidden corners of wildlife sanctuaries, award-winning photographer Mónica L. Corcuera has dedicated her life to capturing nature’s raw, untamed beauty. A native of Mexico City, Mónica is not just a photographer—she’s a passionate conservationist, adventurer, and storyteller whose work bridges the visual and emotional worlds.
Winner of the Golden Camara “Nature World Photographer of the Year” and named Mexico Photographer of the Year in 2023, her lens brings us face to face with wild creatures, urging us to connect, protect, and reflect.
Her journey—from childhood tales of African safaris to hands-on wildlife rehabilitation in South Africa—infuses each of her images with purpose. In this collection of 30 breathtaking wildlife photos, we invite you to explore the untamed spirit of the animal kingdom through Mónica’s eyes.
Scroll down and inspire yourself. You can check Monica’s Instagram account for more amazing photos.
You can find Mónica L. Corcuera on the web:
#1
#2
#3
Childhood Dreams, Artistic Roots
Mónica’s fascination with wildlife began early, nurtured by her parents’ artistic and adventurous spirits. Her mother, a fine-art painter and conservationist, and her father, a globe-trotter with safari stories from Africa, ignited a lifelong love for nature. This foundation, later enriched by formal Fine Arts studies in West Sussex and Mexico City, laid the groundwork for a photographic style that is both poetic and deeply observant.
#4
#5
#6
A Photographer With a Mission
More than a visual artist, Mónica is a conservationist at heart. Her 2014 volunteer work at C.A.R.E. Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa exposed her to the critical importance of rescuing and releasing endangered species—an experience that reshaped her creative mission. Photography became her tool to advocate for wildlife preservation, and each image reflects that responsibility.
#7
#8
#9
Africa: A Dream Realized
In 2011, Mónica made her long-awaited journey to Africa, a pivotal moment that transformed her career and worldview. Surrounded by the landscapes and animals she had long imagined, she began documenting life in its purest, most vulnerable form. Her photos from Tanzania, South Africa, and Zambia serve as tributes to the continent that became her spiritual and artistic home.
#10
#11
#12
The Power of Patience and Light
Mónica emphasizes that wildlife photography is an art of patience. Capturing the perfect shot requires hours, sometimes days, of observation and silent presence. She prefers shooting during the golden hours—sunrise and sunset—when light casts a warm, ethereal glow on her subjects. This mastery of natural light gives her work a soft intimacy that reveals more than just form—it reveals soul.
#13
#14
#15
Cheetahs on the Hood: A Close Encounter in the Serengeti
One of Mónica’s most unforgettable moments occurred in 2022 during the COVID pandemic in the Serengeti, where wildlife moved freely without the usual tourist traffic. A curious cheetah jumped onto her safari vehicle, inspecting her camera with gentle curiosity. Another tried climbing into the back window. Rather than fear, Mónica felt awe and connection—a moment that reminded her of the harmony that exists when animals are undisturbed in their natural habitat.
#16
#17
#18
Lessons from the Wild Dogs of Zambia
In Zambia’s South Lungwa National Park, Mónica tracked a pack of wild dogs, observing their remarkable social structure. With unmatched cooperation and loyalty, the pack cared for their young, the sick, and the elderly, forming an emotional narrative that she beautifully translates into her photographs. For Mónica, these images aren’t just wildlife documentation—they’re portraits of family, leadership, and survival.
#19
#20
#21
Behind the Lens: Preparing for the Unknown
Every expedition begins months in advance. Mónica meticulously researches wildlife behavior, regional climate, and geography to plan her gear and schedule. Yet, it’s not just technical prep—she emphasizes the importance of entering the wild with an open heart and a flexible mindset. “I always seek to integrate my mind and body with nature, becoming one with it,” she explains. This approach allows her to adapt, flow, and deeply connect with her environment.
#22
#23
#24
Photography as Advocacy
Beyond beauty, Mónica’s work is an urgent call to protect Earth’s endangered species. Through exhibitions, books, and online galleries, she raises awareness about the fragility of ecosystems and the human impact on biodiversity. Her first novel, The English Photographer, tackled the effects of gold mining in Tanzania, showing her dedication to telling stories that matter across mediums.
#25
#26
#27
Conclusion: A Lens That Awakens Us All
Mónica L. Corcuera’s wildlife photography is more than art—it’s an emotional and ethical journey. Each frame in this collection reveals not only the majestic creatures of our planet but also the deeper message behind her work: the need to coexist, respect, and protect. As you explore these 30 breathtaking photos, let them awaken your own untamed spirit and inspire you to see the natural world with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of wonder.
#28
#29
#30
