‘Howling at the Moon’ © Dan Callister/Penguins & Sharks

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Penguins & Sharks?

We decided to name the website after the Great White Shark and African Penguin project that we have been working on for the last eighteen years or so in South Africa.  Sadly the population of both species are in severe decline and thought it fitting, that we dedicate the website to them. 

How can photography help conservation efforts?

Visual storytelling is a powerful medium that gives a voice to those that can't be heard. It can spark a connection, change perceptions, shatter stereotypes and initiate positive change.  We work closely with accredited conservation groups to help raise awareness on pressing wildlife issues via international media platforms, exhibitions and global wildlife campaigns.

What projects are you working on at the moment?

We are continuing to work on the African penguin and the Great White shark project.  We are also working with Sea Turtles, Brown Bears, Raptors, Humpback Whales and various threatened shark species, so please check back for updates and sign up for our newsletter.

AI?

We don’t do Artificial Intelligence. We don’t do digital fakery. We do reality. We live and capture the moments in real time, not generate them in the comfort of a reclining chair.

Fine Art Print Sales?

Limited edition print sales fund our documentary and pro bono work. Sadly many organizations no longer have the budget to commission or support wildlife journalism. Putting together these kind of projects, securing permits, flights, accommodation, equipment and the time it takes to get these kind of images is astronomical. We don’t receive sponsorship and are now solely reliant on print sales to finance this kind of conservation work. We also donate a portion of our fine art print sales to The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). So to all those who have purchased a fine art print, thank you!

Why Black & White?

Dan is actually color blind and prefers shooting black & white. Monochrome is timeless. It separates the subject from the noise, It also looks good on any wall.

Limited Edition?

Our limited edition fine art prints are printed on Fuji Crystal Professional Archive Paper for unparalleled resolution, richness and depth. The paper is exposed by laser for maximum resolution and developed in traditional photochemistry. The photograph is then mounted to an aluminum dibond substrate and face-mounted to museum grade acrylic glass . We offer custom float frames in white or black oak. All orders are custom printed and framed in Europe. Edition of 30 per image size.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship limited edition pieces globally. All pieces are shipped securely and are insured. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

How long does a limited edition fine art print order take?

On average it takes around 11 working days from production start to delivery, depending on location.

Tariffs?

The proposed tariffs will inevitably lead to higher production costs for our limited and open edition work unfortunately. We have somehow managed to absorb increased production costs over recent years and kept our prices down. Sadly, it is no longer sustainable. Print sales finance our pro bono and conservation work. We also donate a portion to SANCCOB for frontline conservation efforts. If the tariffs are implemented, it will be detrimental and we will have no choice but to increase our prices unfortunately.

What equipment do you use?

We primarily use Canon cameras and lenses, Elinchrom studio lighting and Aquatica underwater housings but we are a firm believer that the best camera, is the one that you have with you.

Why aren’t you on social media?

We find it more effective for our conservation photography to be used by the conservation organizations we support in their global awareness campaigns. We believe the best type of social media that works for us, are physical exhibitions (not algorithms) and exhibiting at fine art fairs. We regularly post news and video on this website and via our newsletter, so please sign up for updates or come see us at an exhibition. Also please consider following the organizations we work with.

What do you think of Shark Week?

Shark Week maybe sensationalized at times but it has brought Shark Conservation into the mainstream.  It has likely generated more shark fans and conservationists than any other medium.  More ambassadors for sharks can never be a bad thing.

What sparked your passion for wildlife and marine conservation?

Melissa grew up near the beach and was always fascinated with sharks and wildlife. She would go to the library as a child to take out books on animals and nature and never lost interest in the subject. Dan was heavily influenced by his Grandad's passion for nature, he loved to hike and would often take Dan with him on his long walks. His Grandad was an avid painter and Dan would often sneak into his small studio to see what birds he was painting.

How can I get involved and help support marine conservation?

We can all do our bit by reducing consumption, refuse single-use plastic, buy local, educate yourself on where your food originates and if it is sustainable. Actively support reputable conservation groups, local wildlife rehabbers, sign and share petitions, tell your friends and family.  Share your passion, its contagious.

If you would like to help and support a worthy organization. Please visit SANCCOB give them a follow, sign their petitions and donate if you can. They do amazing work.

Any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch!