This Kenyan photographer aims to shift perceptions of conservation through his unique perspective.

Hidden in the underbrush of Kenya’s Ruma National Park, acclaimed conservation photographer Anthony Ochieng Onyango spots what he's been searching for over the past year – the rare roan antelope.

The majestic yet graceful roan antelope is among the largest in Africa, with only an estimated 60,000 remaining across the continent. As of July 2021, just 15 were living in Ruma National Park, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service.

By capturing the elusive roan antelope on camera, Onyango hopes to ignite a passion for conservation and encourage others to help protect wildlife in its natural environment.

“What I cherish most about photography is hearing back from people saying, ‘The photo you took made me realize I need to take action,’” he shared.

Inspiring the next generation

In 2016, Onyango launched the media platform TonyWild to “advance conservation through photography, film, and science.” His team collaborates with schools, offering programs in MITIgation and Visual Ecological Literacy, teaching students photography and encouraging them to plant and care for trees.

“We need to connect with them in a way that resonates, so we can inspire their commitment to conservation,” Onyango explained. “My hope is for students to gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them.”

Onyango envisions his efforts with TonyWild breaking down barriers in the world of photography, inspiring the next generation to follow their passions. He believes young people are the key to addressing climate change and wildlife conservation, calling them our greatest hope in reversing the current damage to the planet.

Browse the gallery above to explore Onyango’s stunning images and dive deeper into his journey.