Robert HardingA chat with the Toons
Over a decade ago, Ann and Steve Toon took a sabbatical from their London journalism jobs to see the world. They fell in love with Africa’s dramatic, desolate landscapes and unique animal life. “And the rest,” they tell me, “..is history.” The husband and wife team have been photographing the continent together ever since, creating beautiful and insightful images of the continent’s natural abundance.
© Ann and Steve Toon
Taking a break from their latest field trip in South Africa, they explain what motivated them to start shooting. “We wanted to share our experiences of Africa’s amazing wildlife and scenery,” says Ann. “We were both journalists, but words alone didn’t seem adequate to communicate what we saw.”
© Ann and Steve Toon
Now travelling regularly to Africa from their home in Northumberland – itself a beautiful area and regular subject of their photography – they capture a diverse range of wildlife. Elephants, black rhino and leopards are among their favourite subjects, as well as ‘less obvious ones, such as hyenas’. “But it’s photographing interesting behaviour, whatever the subject, that we enjoy most,” says Steve.
© Ann and Steve Toon
Their favourite place to shoot is the Kalahari, a dramatic, arid South African wilderness. “The diversity of wildlife is astounding for such an apparently inhospitable habitat,” Steve says. “It’s possible to get a real sense of how the entire ecosystem works, from the smallest bug to the top predators, the magnificent black-maned lions. And the light is fantastic.”
© Ann and Steve Toon
What are the benefits of working together? I ask. “Wildlife photography can be a lonely profession at times,” reply the pair. “It’s great to be able to share wonderful experiences, and to provide mutual support when things aren’t going as planned.” And the downsides? “Being together 24/7 in hot, sweaty, dusty conditions, living off tinned food and beer in a small tent in the middle of nowhere does result in the odd domestic row or three!” But it’s all worth it.
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