"Meet the Photographers"
Hey, we are Jan & Tristan
A father and son from the Netherlands with a shared passion for wildlife and photography. Luckily for us, we are able to combine both as wildlife photographers.
Each image is a result of time spent together outdoors, learning, waiting, exploring, looking, listening, sometimes getting cold and muddy for that one special moment.
Through this site, we want to share the beauty we’ve seen, and maybe inspire others to slow down, look closer, and reconnect with the natural world.
SOMETHING ABOUT ME
Jan Staes
I'm a Wildlife Photographer, born in august 1976 and based in the Netherlands.
I began my photography journey in 2017, focusing on landscapes. During that time, I developed a strong understanding of composition, light, camera settings, and post-processing. In 2021, after being inspired by the work of a wildlife photographer, I turned my lens toward nature. Being outdoors, searching for that one perfect shot, and capturing animals in their natural behavior quickly drew me into the world of wildlife photography.
I started with a Nikon D7200 and the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6 lens — a setup that gave me the reach and flexibility to photograph wildlife from a respectful distance, without disturbing them. It wasn’t long before I upgraded to the Nikon D850 to push my photography even further.
AND ABOUT ME
Tristan Staes
When my father first got into wildlife photography, I would occasionally join him on his “missions.” I loved being out in nature. Since I didn’t have a camera of my own, I became his spotter — two sets of eyes see more than one.
We went on countless trips together, where I learned a lot about animal behavior and how to approach wildlife without disturbing it. But at times, it was frustrating. I would spot an animal but couldn’t capture the moment myself.
That all changed when my father bought a new camera and gave me his Nikon D7200. From that moment on, we truly became a team. Along the way, I’ve learned so much and have been lucky to capture some incredible moments. I hope you enjoy my photos as much as I enjoy taking them.
Our Equipment
Wildlife photography requires patience, preparation, and reliable equipment. Over the years, we have built a setup that allows us to work quietly, at a respectful distance, and in a wide range of conditions.
Camera's
Our primary cameras are the Nikon D850 and the Nikon D7200. Both offer the speed, durability, and image quality needed to capture fleeting wildlife moments.
Lenses
For most of our work, we rely on two Nikon AF-S 200–500mm f/5.6E VR ED lenses. These telephoto lenses allow us to maintain a safe and ethical distance from our subjects while still capturing detail and behavior.
Camouflage
To minimize disturbance, we use camouflage tents and clothing when necessary. Remaining unseen is often essential — not for the image alone, but also for the wellbeing of the animal.
Binoculars
In addition, we use binoculars for observation and a thermal camera to detect wildlife activity without intrusion, especially during early mornings or low-light conditions.
While equipment plays an important role, it is ultimately patience and fieldcraft that make the difference.