From the 10th – 12th July 2026, I had the most amazing time at Global Birdfair, and I honestly don't think I stopped smiling once!
As an 18-year-old wildlife photographer and birder, getting to spend the weekend surrounded by people who are just as passionate about birds and conservation as I am, was incredibly inspiring. Everywhere I looked there were people sharing stories, showing off amazing photography, talking about wildlife, and celebrating the natural world. It really reminded me why I love being part of this community.
One of the biggest highlights was meeting some amazing people who I've admired for a long time. I had the opportunity to meet Paul Browning (https://www.paulbrowning.photography) , Rachel Bigsby(https://www.rachelbigsby.com) , Lucy Lapwing, Robert E Fuller (https://www.robertefuller.com ) and Ali Marley(https://alimarley.com) . They were all so friendly and generous with their time, and it was lovely to chat with them and hear about their own experiences. Moments like these make the wildlife photography community feel so welcoming.
Something that really stood out to me throughout the weekend was hearing so many inspiring female photographers and birders speak. Listening to their journeys, the challenges they've overcome, and the incredible work they're doing was genuinely motivating. As a young woman hoping to build a career in wildlife photography, seeing women succeeding in the industry gives me so much confidence that it's possible with hard work, passion, and perseverance.
Of course, no visit to Global Birdfair would be complete without wandering around all the exhibitors! It was great to see the latest cameras, lenses, optics and conservation organisations, and I had some exciting conversations about future opportunities. Every stand had something different to discover, and I could easily have spent even longer exploring everything.
One conversation that I'm especially excited about was with Nikon. It was fantastic to discuss the possibility of becoming a Nikon ambassador. It's something I'd love to work towards, and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have that conversation. It left me feeling even more motivated to keep improving my photography and sharing my passion for wildlife.
More than anything, I left Global Birdfair feeling inspired. It reminded me that the wildlife community is full of kind, encouraging people who genuinely want to support each other and protect the natural world. Whether I was chatting to photographers, listening to talks or simply meeting fellow birders, every conversation made the weekend even more special.
A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to speak to me over the weekend. I came home with so much inspiration, new ideas, and even more excitement for what the future might hold.
Now it's time to get back outside with my camera, put that inspiration into practice, and see where the next adventure takes me.
Thank you, Global Birdfair—I already can't wait for next year!
Thanks again to everyone who made the event happen.
You can follow more of my work and upcoming community projects at www.charlottetuson.com
Or catch me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tusoninthewild/#