Winner of Category, Animals In Their Environment, World Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026.
James is  drawn to photographing scenes that feel as if they could have unfolded at any point in history. This waterhole in Kenya's Chyulu Hills does precisely that and takes on an almost biblical quality during the dry season, becoming one of the few remaining sources of water for miles around. As the heat builds, so too does the congregation of wildlife at the waterhole.
The challenge then becomes the harsh, unforgiving light, which is why I opted to use an infrared-converted camera to take advantage of a different spectrum of light. From a hide, I captured this scene with a wide-angle lens, seeking to bring intimacy while using the unique infrared aesthetic to enhance drama and evoke a dreamlike, otherworldly atmosphere. Elephants here take control of the pecking order and rarely share water willingly. On most days, I watched giraffes, zebras, and other species waiting patiently in line. However, on this occasion, a young bull elephant was drinking alone and allowed others to approach nervously, only for the elephant to spray them playfully with water. As they attempted to return a few more times, he did it again, as if he was thoroughly enjoying the game.

This image holds deep personal meaning for me because my first introduction to Africa was right here, more than a decade ago. No camera in hand then, just open eyes. Those formative moments at this same waterhole are part of what eventually led me to move to Kenya and pursue a life behind the camera. I recall Richard Bonham of the Big Life Foundation once telling me that when he first arrived in this area, there were barely any elephant tracks. Today, this photograph serves as a poignant reminder of hope and a testament to what's possible when we choose to protect the natural world.