“I’m looking for photos that get down to the surface and really tell a story.”

as part of the annual European Wildlife Photographer of the Year The competition was launched in 2001 german nature photography associationthis European Renaissance Award Celebrating some of the best wildlife-related images from across Europe. Submission deadline is March 1, 2026.

In 2026, the European Rewilding Prize will be awarded by Jon A. Juárez and Victoria Perzeia German-Ukrainian photographer and photojournalist living in Munich. Victoria’s work focuses on the environment, science and sustainability, and she explores the relationship between people, wildlife and place, with a focus on underrepresented stories in conservation. She is an emerging alliance photographer international alliance of photographers for conservationis also a member of the Women’s Photography Association and the German Nature Photography Association. We caught up with her to learn more about her background—and what she looks for in a great wildlife photo.

What does it mean to be a member of the International Alliance of Conservation Photographers?

Most importantly, it’s about community and shared goals. In a field that can often feel lonely, there’s something incredibly empowering about being surrounded by like-minded people who share a deep-seated commitment to moral storytelling. It provides a platform where we can exchange ideas, collaborate on global issues, and amplify our collective voice. Knowing that I am part of a community that prioritizes protecting nature over just “photographing” gives my work a sense of belonging and drives me to uphold the highest standards of integrity in conservation photography.

You focus on underrepresented stories in conservation. Can you give us an example?

I’m fascinated by the “vulnerable” in nature – like bats, which are often misunderstood or ignored, especially in my home country of Germany. I believe that by bringing local stories to a global audience we can inspire wider conservation efforts. A recent example is my work on Bavarian fallow deer rescue, which was recently published in BBC Wildlife Magazine. These stories prove that you don’t have to travel to the ends of the earth to find compelling conservation stories. By highlighting the beauty and fragility of species on our doorstep, we can create more personal connections between people and the nature they come into contact with every day.

Your photography helps people visualize scientific research – why is this important?

Scientific research is the backbone of conservation, but research papers are often complex and written for a very specific expert audience. I see photography as a bridge; visuals have the ability to transform abstract data into tangible and emotional language for the public. Science becomes easier to understand when one can actually see the impact of the subject being studied or a particular conservation approach. It turns facts and data into stories that people can understand, feel, and ultimately get behind.

Nature photography has historically shunned human and man-made elements, but you celebrate it – why?

For me, conservation is essentially a human story. Humans are behind every rescue effort and every recovery project, and I wanted to make these invisible work visible. I value journalism that includes the “whole story,” not just a sanitized wilderness version. In today’s world, where there are fewer and fewer natural spaces, many of the most vulnerable species simply cannot survive without human intervention and dedication. By including the human element, I hope to show that we are not just observers of nature, but active participants in its healing.

What is your most memorable wildlife encounter?

By sheer coincidence, this actually happened near my house. My neighbor told me about a bat conservation program in the forest just minutes from my home, which eventually led to a long-term personal project. I remember monitoring the bat boxes with volunteers. As I sat under the tree with my camera ready, they opened a box and everything happened in a blur. A bat flew out and passed me – a feeling I will never forget because it was so soft. In that moment, I managed to capture the moment before the box closed again. It’s a beautiful reminder that natural wonders are often hidden where you least expect them.

Do you think photography can be a force for good?

Absolutely. Photography is one of our most powerful promotional tools, but it carries a huge responsibility in how a subject is depicted and interpreted. When used wisely, images can change perspectives, influence policy and raise vital funds for conservation. A perfect example of this power is Steve Winter’s iconic photo of a mountain lion in front of the Hollywood sign. In one frame, the image tells a complete and complex story: wildlife can and does coexist in our densest urban landscapes. The impact is huge. Shifting the narrative from fear to pride, ultimately leading to wallis annenberg wildlife crossing. This shows that well-timed, intentional images can inspire tangible, large-scale change to benefit the natural world.

What are you looking for in submissions to this year’s European Rewilding Awards?

I’m looking for photos that are beneath the surface and really tell a story. While technical skills are the baseline, I’m looking for images that evoke a sense of hope and show tangible progress in rewilding. I especially love stories that take place in our own backyard; these images find the extraordinary in the ordinary and prove that conservation doesn’t just happen in remote wilderness, but where we live. I want to be surprised by perspectives I’ve never seen before and be moved by the narrative behind the lens.

What are you doing?

I’m honored to be a Important Impact Researcherwhich gave me the opportunity to delve into new projects on the intersection between humans and wildlife. My current focus is on the critical role bats play in agriculture – a fascinating relationship that supports our food systems in ways that few appreciate. This fellowship provides an excellent platform to further develop my visual storytelling abilities and highlight important conservation narratives that I hope will resonate locally and internationally.

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