Concepts of Nature : A Wildlife Photographer's Journey

Andy Rouse has gained a reputation for getting up close and personal with his subjects -ranging from lions and elephants in Africa to penguins in Antarctica, and taking in a whole host of African, European and North American wildlife on the way.

In Concepts of Nature the author brings together some of his most memorable images from a genre-defining portfolio spanning four continents.

Split into three parts, Concepts of Nature begins with 'Visions', in which Rouse presents the photographs, many published here for the fist time, which he feels were the landmarks in his career and in his development from a one 'big shot' specialist to an artist who can capture the whole story of a species and its environment.

In 'Expression' he then discusses and illustrates the ideas and techniques that have enabled him to create a series of themed portfolios devoted to a single species or ecosystem -such as those he made in South Georgia and Antarctica.

Finally, in 'Inspiration' Rouse turns to the work of other wildlife photographers who have inspired and influenced him.

There is also an appendix giving technical details of the individual photographs. For aspiring wildlife photographers, this book will itself be an inspiration, showing just what can be achieved with skill, patience and an extraordinary eye for the telling and dramatic shot.

But it will also be treasured by the host of wildlife enthusiasts who admire Andy Rouse's pictures, attend his lectures or watch his television programmes.