Romance is Dead to be the cover image for Wildlife Photographer of the Year Portfolio 60
After the news of William’s image, Romance is Dead being highly commended at Wildlife Photographer of the Year, we can now announce the image will be the cover of their annual coffee table book, Wildlife Photographer of the Year Portfolio.
Romance is Dead: Highly commended in the Animal Behaviour category.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
With more than 60,000 entries this year, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year (WPOTY) competition is widely regarded as the most prestigious and challenging in the industry. Out of these thousands of submissions, only 100 reach the final and William’s image, "Romance is Dead," is among the few highly commended photographs this year.
Celebrated for its recognition of original imagery, WPOTY is now in its 60th year. Previously awarded photographers include the likes of David Lloyd, Jonathan and Angie Scott, Tom Way and Richard Peters, all of whom continue to inspire William's work.
The Awards Show at the Natural History Museum in London
The Book
Each year, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition reaches millions worldwide through its global tour and international media coverage. This year’s coffee table book, portfolio 34 features the complete collection of 100 images honoured in the 2024 competition. Chosen by an international jury from over 60,000 entries for their artistic excellence and originality, these images represent the work of photographers from nearly 100 countries. With diverse styles, techniques, and perspectives, the collection serves as both a platform for photographers dedicated to capturing the natural world and a tribute to the beauty of nature.
WPOTY 2023 Cover, by Amit Esthel
WPOTY 2022 Cover, by Dmitry Koch
Image Story
William's work typically exudes a sense of calm, reflecting his efforts to keep encounters with wild subjects peaceful. However, there are moments when something extraordinary leaves him astonished.
In early 2023, while staying at Namiri Plains, a stunning camp in the Eastern Serengeti, William captured one such moment.
This image is all about angle and perspective, as if lying in the grass beside the lions—almost as William did while they mated. The mating process between a male and female lion can last up to three days, with frequent mating sessions during their time together, away from the pride. The interactions between the lions can be intense, and this was precisely what William aimed to capture.
"I knew that after mating, lionesses often react viscerally, biting or snarling at the male. This particular reaction was the most intense I witnessed during my time with them—flies burst from his mane, and there was a genuine look of fear on his face.
It wasn't until I reviewed the shot on my computer later that evening that I noticed another remarkable detail: the saliva hurling from the lioness's jaws, adding even more intrigue to the image."
Behind The Scenes
Highlights from William’s eight days at Namiri Plains, working on the winning image.
Join William in the Serengeti
In 2021 William co-founded Armstrong Fortescue, a photographic safari company offering guided trips to some of the world’s most exciting photography locations.
William will be back in Namiri Plains for private safaris in early 2025, and you can join him there for a group safari in 2026. To enquire about either option please use the form below and William will be in touch with you.