Bored Panda reached out to the photographer to learn more about the inspiration behind his work. Pepe took us back to the moment when he first developed his passion for nature: “Since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by nature and wildlife. I was given a camera at a young age, and growing up in a time when photographs were cherished made me appreciate the power of capturing a moment. My passion for wildlife photography evolved naturally from my deep love for nature and my desire to document its beauty and fragility. Spending years as a diving instructor and underwater cavern guide also played a crucial role, allowing me to witness firsthand the wonders of the natural world and the urgent need for conservation.”
Safety is a big factor in wildlife photography. We were curious about how Manzanilla ensures he’s fully prepared and safe during his shoots in the wilderness. He shared with us: “Safety—for both myself and the animals—is always my top priority. Before any shoot, I research the species and its behavior extensively to ensure I approach it in the least invasive way possible. I also consider environmental conditions—whether I’m in a jungle, underwater, or a remote landscape. Patience and adaptability are key, as sometimes I must remain still for hours to avoid disturbing the wildlife. My experience as a diver and underwater speleologist has taught me the importance of assessing risks, respecting the environment, and understanding that nature always dictates the rules.”
As we've learned from many wildlife photographers, this genre requires a great deal of patience and persistence. We wanted to know what the longest wait was for Pepe to capture the perfect shot. The photographer told us: “Some of my best shots have taken hours, even days, of waiting. In the wild, nothing happens on command—you have to blend into the environment and become part of the scene. One of my longest waits was for a jaguar in the Costa Rican jungle, where I had the great opportunity to photograph him in the open. Another time, while working on underwater photography, I had to return to the same location multiple times over weeks to capture a perfect split-shot moment. It’s all about patience and understanding that nature moves at its own pace.”
When asked about the most surprising encounters he’s had in the wild, he responded: “One of the most unforgettable encounters was with a boa constrictor swimming in a river during the dry season. The sight of such a majestic creature, perfectly adapted to its environment, was mesmerizing. Another incredible moment was when I had the opportunity to see and photograph a blue whale—an intimate and rare glimpse into their world. These moments remind me why I do what I do: to capture and share the beauty of nature while inspiring others to protect it.”
Lastly, Manzanilla shared with us a dream location or species he hasn’t photographed yet but hopes to in the future: “I’ve been fortunate to photograph some of the world’s most incredible wildlife, but there are always new challenges ahead. I’d love to capture the elusive snow leopard in the Himalayas—an animal that embodies both resilience and mystery. Another dream would be to document the Arctic’s changing landscapes and its wildlife, particularly polar bears, as I am eager to contribute to the conservation of these ecosystems, hoping they are not lost to climate change. Every location and species tells a unique story, and I hope to continue exploring and sharing these untold narratives.”
