Thomas Nicolon is a self-taught photographer, born in 1987 in Agen, France. His expertise lies in wildlife photography, and he’s a passionate advocate for conservation, documenting the complex relationship hunters have with nature. Nicolon studied at a journalism school in Marseilles, France. Today, he uses his love for storytelling and photography to craft vivid and powerful images that bring focus to pressing ecological concerns.
Nicolon on a recent visit to the lake Télé Community Reserve in the Republic of the Congo. This opportunity arose as a result of his partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). This unique collaboration provided him with extremely raw access to the climate ecosystem while seeking the help of local hunters, whose livelihoods heavily depend on it. His goal was to unapologetically humanize these people, complicating the dominant narratives about hunting practices.
To prepare, Nicolon spent a few days in the forest with indigenous hunters. Among them, his subject Brice Itoua, who seemed truly pleased with the portrait he had just made. While Nicolon’s work captures the personal stories of these inspiring hunters, it brings to light the ecological challenges they are up against. He wanted to illustrate the impact of the “empty forest syndrome” on wildlife. This phrase refers to regions where all wildlife has been drastically thinned due to overhunting.
His investigative project drew on the endangered Congo dwarf crocodile, a species that has increasingly come under threat. Nicolon documented one magical moment when an eco-guard ferried crocodiles in a boat, up-river. This breathtaking scene underscores the tension between environmental conservation and the Preservation mood with rustic charm.
To enhance his storytelling, Nicolon employed innovative techniques, including using a long, woody liana vine with a hook to photograph hunters as they caught crocodiles. Beyond giving him distinct points of view, this approach helped show his dedication to getting real, unvarnished moments that truly represent the work in the field.
Nicolon shared his appreciation for the influences that have helped to shape his career. He recognized important photographers such as Nicole Viloteau and Pascal Maitre. It has been these people who have energized him on this journey.
“Nicole Viloteau, Pascal Maitre, Thomas Peschak, Charlie Hamilton James, Christian Ziegler, Brent Stirton, Mattias Klum, and so many others.” – Thomas Nicolon
Along with his work in the Congo, Nicolon has bigger aspirations than just protecting African wildlife. David further explained to us how he got a National Geographic Society grant to go on a two-year project in northern Australia. This is indicative of his desire to expand his conservation narrative internationally.
Though photography in difficult-to-reach areas poses a challenge, Nicolon works to let his passion shine through. In his experience, the best stories happen when you take a deep dive into the issues that speak to you on a personal level.
“Work on stories that you have fun shooting, look for topics you’re passionate about – the rest will follow.” – Thomas Nicolon
Nicolon struggles with self–imposed pressure. He was candid in conveying how daunted he is leading up to every session. He knows that’s just the name of the game when you’re creating.
“Every time I put too much pressure on myself (that’s before every shoot).” – Thomas Nicolon
Nicolon shares prints of his photographs with the hunters he works with. Weller’s gesture has built tremendous goodwill and attracted a sincere sense of artistic street cred, surrounding all of his work with a colorful hometown flair. His stunning photographs foster pride within our diverse communities and connect across cultures. They underscore the importance of sustainable hunting as part of a broader, more effective conservation agenda.