interview Photography

A chat with wildlife and travel photographer Charly Savely

4/12/2022Jake Ryan

If you're not following Charly Savely on Instagram, change that right now as you are missing out. Charly takes the most incredible wildlife and sleek travel photos you will see and I am in awe. 

I recently spoke with Charly about her photography and some of her favourite things and you can see what she had to say below. 

First of all, tell us a little bit about yourself?

Hello! My name is Charly Savely & I am a British wildlife & travel photographer, videographer, & conservationist, who has been doing what I do for ten years now as a Sony Alpha Collective member. 

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Photography, Graphic Design, & Scientific Illustration at the University of California, Santa Cruz. 


I live in the beautiful state of Alaska, which inspires all of my work. Currently, I’m focused & passionate about capturing the disappearing Arctic & conservation of its wildlife, as well as minimalist moments.


You take some of the simplest, yet most breathtaking photographs I have ever seen. When did you get started in photography?


Growing up, I always had a disposable film camera. I later got my degree in photography, but I don’t think that’s necessary to succeed at all. My career started in graphic design & illustration. As I grew burnt out in that realm, I quickly rediscovered my love for photography while going on hikes & wanting to document them. 



How long did it take until you developed your own style?


Years. For some, it happens instantly. For me, it was an on-going struggle of trial & error, & discovering what my eye found most pleasing. I’m still never satisfied though, and my style seems to always evolve as I learn. 


Your photos are so beautiful, how much patience goes into getting that perfect shot?


It takes so much patience. It drives me insane half the time.


What advice do you have for creative people out there trying to find their place? 


I always say find your own style. Experiment with what you like & don’t like. Experiment with subject matter & color. There’s so much copying and saturation these days, that finding your own style is the only way to stand out. 


Do you have a favourite image you’ve shot? 


Mmm that is so hard for me to decide. I have favorite moments. And as I shoot, newer moments become my favorite. My top 3 right now, would be my lion, eagle, or bear shot! 






How long did it take you to start making your living from your work? 


My last 9-5 job was at Microsoft. I had photography side jobs coming in more & more. It was all I was interested in & all I could focus on, so it became time to take the plunge. But to answer the question, I’d say a few years. 


As an inspiration to many, where do you find your own inspiration? 


Outside. That’s number one. Even observing the details in my backyard sometimes. Or paying attention to the moon rising each night. My peers also inspire me, but I haven’t shot alongside someone in quite some time now. 


Outside of photography, what makes you happy? 


It might be a simple answer, but my puppies (I’m a dog-mum of 3) & spending time with close friends. Being outside without my camera. 



And finally, what are your plans for the future? 


I’m leading photography workshops in Antarctica, South Africa, and soon Alaska, my home. I’m learning about NFTs & learning more about video all the time. That’s really my focus right now. 


Thanks Charly for taking the time to speak to us. Make sure you follow Charly's work on Instagram HERE and learn more about her work on her website HERE.


All photos in this post belong to Charly 






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