Conservation

Capturing the essence of Galapagos

Our Storyteller in Residence, wildlife photographer, writer, and expedition leader Henley Spiers, is currently in the Galapagos Islands to write and photograph his next SiR story. As part of his research, he meets Tui De Roy, one of the region's most famous wildlife photographers.

Words and photographs by Henley Spiers

Having moved from Belgium to the Galapagos Islands at 2 years old, Tui De Roy has spent a lifetime exploring and documenting this extraordinary place. Working as a nature photographer for over 50 years, Tui’s photographs have become the most emblematic and well-known from Galapagos. “At 70 years old, she shows little sign of slowing down and I had the privilege of sharing time and tales with her whilst visiting the islands,” says Henley. 

Tui has borne witness to many of nature’s greatest spectacles, sights which very few others have ever seen and, in some cases, scenes of natural beauty and abundance which have now vanished from our planet. Tui is single-minded, knowledgeable and articulate both with a camera and her words. “Our crew was half her age but she had no trouble keeping up with us in the water, indeed, Tui was usually the last one out of the water. Her passion and concern for nature remains unabated and inspirational. Tui is one of a kind, a legend of the Galapagos and of nature photography,” he adds. 

Watch Henley’s interview here:

For more Despatches, images and more, follow our 2023 Storyteller in Residence’s journey here or over on Instagram

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