About me

Chasing Rare Moments In The Wild

I’m a landscape and wildlife photographer from Hoedspruit in South Africa, and I go looking for transient moments: those rare times when the natural world puts on a display so great, so inspiring, that I have to see it. Immense thunderstorms, unusual weather and incredible wildlife encounters. That’s when I feel most alive and at peace, out in the wilderness and away from the noise of modern life.

I seek out these moments mainly for the experience, but also for the unique opportunities they give me as a photographer. I was born with a love for the outdoors, and I thrive on exploring with my camera in search of fresh perspectives on our natural world.

Mark Dumbleton crouching in the field with a camera and telephoto lens

My story

I picked up a camera in April 2007, and it quickly grew into a real passion. In 2008 I joined a weekend wildlife photography workshop with the late Chris Van Rooyen, and that sparked a huge interest in wildlife photography for me.

I consider myself mostly self-taught. I’ve learned a lot from online resources like YouTube videos and articles, but I firmly believe the most effective way to learn is through experience. Go outside and take as many photographs as you can!

I don’t measure success by accolades, books sold or money made. I measure it by how much I get to do what I love, and that’s being out in the wilderness with my camera.

My passion for the wilderness lets me connect with my subjects on a deep level, and I hope, at least in a small way, that connection comes through in my photographs.

  • Based inHoedspruit, South Africa
  • Photographing sinceApril 2007
  • SubjectsWildlife and landscapes
  • Cameras usedNikon Z8
    Nikon Z5II
  • Lenses usedNikon 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3
    Nikon 24-120mm f/4
    Nikon 20mm f/1.8
    Nikon 35mm f/1.4

Published work and awards

My photographs have been published in print and online, in South Africa and around the world. My most notable work is in Remembering Leopards, a coffee table book published in 2023. I’m honoured that my photograph of Thandi, a young leopard from the Sabi Sands in South Africa, was chosen for its front cover.

  • South African Photographer Of The Year 2022Winner, Professional Mammals category, and second place overall
  • Nature’s Best Photography Africa 2015Winner, landscape category
The Remembering Leopards book, with a close-up of a leopard’s face on the cover