Amos Nachoum
USA & Israel
Amos Nachoum is an internationally acclaimed wildlife photographer, explorer, and expedition leader whose work has brought global attention to some of the world’s most powerful marine predators and remote ecosystems. Born in Israel, Nachoum relocated to the United States in 1978, where he began building a remarkable career centered on documenting wildlife through rare and intimate underwater encounters.
Over the past four decades, Nachoum has explored nearly every major body of water on Earth, from the icy expanses of the Arctic to the remote wilderness of Antarctica. His photography is renowned for capturing close interactions with some of nature’s most formidable animals, including whales, sharks, leopard seals, crocodiles, anacondas, and polar bears. Through these striking images, he challenges traditional perceptions of “dangerous” wildlife, revealing the complexity of animal behavior and demonstrating that respectful, carefully managed encounters between humans and marine life are possible.
As the founder of Big Animals Global Expeditions, Nachoum has led more than 6,000 adventurers, photographers, and conservation enthusiasts on immersive wildlife expeditions around the world. His work seamlessly blends exploration, photography, and conservation, offering participants transformative experiences while contributing to scientific research and raising environmental awareness.
Nachoum’s photography has earned widespread international recognition, including honors from the Siena International Photo Awards and BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year. In 2019, he was named SeaKeepers Person of the Year, and in 2021 he received the title Nature Photographer of the Year, further cementing his status as a leader in his field.
He is also the author of the photography book BIG, a powerful collection showcasing images of large animals from around the world. His life and work were featured in the award-winning documentary The Picture of His Life, which chronicles his extraordinary quest to photograph polar bears underwater in the Arctic.
Through his photography, expeditions, and ongoing conservation advocacy, Amos Nachoum continues to inspire a deeper appreciation for marine wildlife and the natural world. His work not only captures the beauty and power of these animals but also underscores the urgent importance of protecting the planet’s most fragile and awe-inspiring ecosystems.