Wildlife Photography & Observation Gallery | Nature View Optics
Welcome to the Nature View Optics Wildlife Gallery. Every photograph displayed here was taken by Nature View Optics staff while observing wildlife and testing optics in real-world conditions, both in the UK and overseas.
From owls, kingfishers, otters and deer to wildlife encountered on overseas adventures, these images showcase the beauty and diversity of the natural world while demonstrating the value of quality optics in the field. Whether birdwatching, wildlife spotting or exploring new habitats, the right binoculars, spotting scopes and thermal imaging equipment help bring nature closer and reveal details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The Wildlife Gallery reflects our passion for nature observation and the experiences that inspire everything we do at Nature View Optics.
Copyright Notice: All photographs featured in this gallery are the copyright of Nature View Optics. Images may not be copied, reproduced, distributed or used in any form without prior written permission.
Wildlife Photography and Observation in the UK and Beyond
The photographs featured in this gallery were captured while observing wildlife and testing optics in real-world conditions across the UK and around the world. From birdwatching in reedbeds and woodlands to spotting wildlife on open plains and in dense forests, these experiences demonstrate the value of quality binoculars, spotting scopes and thermal monoculars in locating, observing and photographing wildlife. Each image reflects our passion for nature observation and the practical use of optics in the field.
Bird Photography
This Barn Owl was photographed in North Yorkshire after a long wait outside an old barn. I knew the owl was inside thanks to a thermal monocular, which picked up its heat signature. Patience paid off when it eventually emerged, providing a fantastic wildlife photography opportunity.
Sparrowhawk in the fog, County Durham. Initially spotted perched among the trees through the fog using a thermal monocular, which revealed its presence despite the challenging conditions. After carefully watching and waiting, the bird provided a wonderful opportunity for observation and photography.
Kestrel - Lincolnshire
Greater Sand Plover, Koh Chang. Observing this bird through my Vortex binoculars, I watched it relentlessly pursue a crab along the beach for more than ten minutes. With patience and a bit of careful manoeuvring, I eventually found the perfect position to take what remains one of my favourite wildlife photographs.
Asian Open-billed Stork, Bueng Boraphet. While setting up for an early morning photography session, the thermal monocular proved to be an invaluable tool, helping me locate wildlife in the low light before sunrise. This impressive stork was one of the highlights of the morning and provided a fantastic photographic opportunity.
Crossbill, Northumberland. High in the treetops, this Crossbill was located with the help of my Vortex Spotting Scope, which was invaluable for picking out birds among the woodland canopy.
Juvenile Starlings - County Durham
Bearded Tit, Leighton Moss. A thermal monocular proved invaluable in initially locating birds hidden among the reeds, allowing me to observe and photograph this striking species.
Pied Wagtail with a Stonefly - Arkengarthdale
Common Whitethroat - Burton Mere
Brown-winged Kingfisher - Phang-nga
Short-eared Owl - North Yorkshire
Red-tailed Hawk - Yellowstone
Blue Jay - New York
Mammals and Wildlife Encounters
Roe Deer, Norfolk. Initially spotted using a thermal monocular, which revealed its presence long before it could be seen clearly. After a careful approach and a patient wait, I was rewarded with this photograph of one of the UK's most elegant and elusive deer species.
Pileated Gibbon, Khao Yai National Park. A quality pair of Vortex binoculars and a spotting scope are invaluable in Khao Yai, helping to locate wildlife hidden high in the forest canopy.
Hippopotamus - South Africa
Mountain Zebra, South Africa. My Vortex binoculars were invaluable for locating wildlife across the open landscape, helping me spot and photograph this striking Mountain Zebra.
Wild Otter, Isle of Mull. Initially found using my Vortex spotting scope, which proved invaluable for scanning the shoreline and locating wildlife at distance.
Grass Snake - Ham Wall
Grizzly Bear, Yellowstone National Park. A quality pair of Vortex binoculars and a spotting scope are invaluable in Yellowstone, where vast landscapes and long viewing distances make good optics essential for wildlife observation.
Rabbit - County Durham
Explore the equipment used during our wildlife observations
Many of the wildlife encounters featured in this gallery were made possible using premium binoculars, spotting scopes and thermal imaging equipment. The right optics can make all the difference when locating and observing wildlife, whether in the UK or further afield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you use binoculars for wildlife observation?
Binoculars are often the first piece of equipment we reach for when observing wildlife. They allow us to quickly scan habitats, locate birds and mammals, and enjoy detailed views without disturbing the animals. Many of the species featured in this gallery were initially spotted using binoculars before being photographed.
What are the advantages of a spotting scope?
A spotting scope provides greater magnification than binoculars, making it ideal for observing distant wildlife. Whether watching birds on a reservoir, scanning coastal mudflats or observing mammals across open landscapes, a spotting scope can reveal details that would otherwise be missed.
How can a thermal monocular help with wildlife watching?
Thermal monoculars detect heat signatures, making them invaluable for locating wildlife in low light, dense vegetation or challenging weather conditions. Several of the wildlife encounters featured in this gallery began with animals being located using thermal imaging before they could be seen with the naked eye.
What is the best magnification for birdwatching binoculars?
For most birdwatching situations, 8x42 binoculars provide an excellent balance of magnification, brightness and field of view. They perform well across a variety of habitats and are often considered the most versatile choice for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Do you use the equipment you sell?
Yes. The photographs and observations featured in this gallery were made during genuine wildlife watching trips using the same types of binoculars, spotting scopes and thermal monoculars that we offer to our customers. Real-world field use is an important part of how we assess and recommend optics.
Where were these wildlife photographs taken?
The images in this gallery were captured across a wide range of locations, including North Yorkshire, Norfolk, Northumberland, the Isle of Mull, Yellowstone National Park, South Africa and Thailand. Each photograph reflects a memorable wildlife encounter and the enjoyment that comes from spending time in nature with quality optics.
