Does your scientific background impact the way you approach animals?
"The credibility makes it easier to connect with scientists who offer their stories to us as there's a basis of trust because we understand how much effort and patience goes into getting a project off the ground," says Christine. "We do not go for an image just because we want to; we want to ensure it adheres with scientific knowledge and with the animals themselves. It's about respecting the expertise and the environment."
Which animal has been the most challenging to photograph or film?
"Wolves," says Christine. "We wanted to expand our big predators project, around the time when wolves were starting to return to Austria. We contacted the Austrian military because the first wolf pack had made its home on a training ground." Marc continues: "It took over a year to get permission to set up our cameras and camera traps, and all of a sudden, they decided against it. We would have been the first to photograph these wolves, but it wasn't meant to be."
What do you think are the biggest challenges in wildlife photography today?
"To keep people inspired and to let them know that they can make a difference," says Christine. "There's so much negativity in the news, so much doom and gloom. You end up asking, 'What's the point?' or 'Is there anything I can even do?'. Every contribution makes a difference, and there are so many sources of inspiration out there. You just need to block out the noise and do your own thing."
Is there any animal you really want to photograph?
"We have a long list!" says Marc. "We're going to try again with the European wildcats. Also leopards in Arabia and the Caucasus."
Does your kit choice impact your work in the field?
"We've missed out on some photo opportunities in the past when we were shooting on DSLR," says Christine. "Wildlife can be unpredictable. Once, I was standing in the way of a group of muskox but I had to stop photographing because the shutter noise would have scared them off. The silent shutter in EOS R System cameras means we don't have to worry about that. We can also be certain that the cameras and lenses will capture all the detail, whether we're shooting against the sun or in the shade."