About Me Antonio, After making the big move to Spain for retirement, I have been soaking up the beauty of the Alicante province since 2018. I have a passion for bird & nature photography which goes beyond just capturing stunning shots—it’s about respecting and preserving the natural world. The Spanish Association of Nature Photographers (AEFONA) shares this vision, encouraging photographers across Spain to appreciate and protect nature while behind the lens.
The viewing platform at El Hondo Nature reserve
Alicante province has a large variety of birds, with several wetlands providing an abundance of species that make wildlife photography an absolute joy. The yearly migration to the region brings even more variety during the autumn and winter months due to Alicante’s milder climate. Finding interesting and diverse bird species to photograph is never too much of a challenge, though it may be necessary to travel further inland to encounter more raptor species. The region offers a mix of coastal habitats, salt flats, and forested areas, each attracting different species throughout the seasons. Whether it’s the elegant flamingos wading through the salt lakes or the majestic booted eagles soaring overhead, there’s always something fascinating to capture.
Starting my photographic journey at the age of 10 with a Kodak Brownie, I received a Zorki 4 Rangefinder camera for my 14th birthday, which sparked a keen interest in photography. Progressing through various brands of cameras over the years, two of his early favourites were the Chinon CM4, using Pentax K mount lenses, and the Contax RTS II with motor drive. Experimenting with different lenses and camera systems gave me a deeper understanding of photography and helped me refine my skills in various photography styles.
Motor racing has always been a passion of mine, so it was only natural to combine it with another love—photography. Back in the day, I’d jump at any chance to visit Crystal Palace Racing Track in South London on Saturdays when races were on. Camera in hand, I’d capture the thrill of drivers pushing their cars to the limit around the circuit. Of course, it was all black-and-white photography back then, so I set up my own darkroom at home, using a Gnome darkroom enlarger to develop my shots. I experimented with different developing and fixing solutions—Patterson’s was a favourite—learning hands-on techniques like dodging and burning, which, funny enough, are now just a few clicks away in modern editing software.
Over the years, I’ve explored all sorts of photography—motor racing, portraiture, weddings, fashion shoots, maternity photography—you name it. Each came with its own set of challenges. Wedding photography, for example, is all about capturing raw emotions in the moment, while fashion shoots require precise lighting and posing. But if there’s one genre that truly has my heart, it’s bird photography, especially birds of prey. There’s something incredibly rewarding about the patience it takes to capture them in flight, understanding their behaviours, and the sheer thrill of spotting a rare species.
My love for bird photography really took off over a decade ago when I started appreciating the mind-blowing diversity of the animal kingdom. Birds are incredible—their colours, the way they adapt to different climates, how some thrive in deserts while others flourish in coastal wetlands—it’s all fascinating to me. Watching and photographing them in their natural habitat has deepened my respect for nature and conservation.
Over the years, I’ve travelled to some amazing places to expand my bird photography portfolio—natural parks, reserves, even remote areas where rare species can be found. While Alicante offers plenty of opportunities, I’ve also explored other regions of Spain known for their rich biodiversity. The excitement of tracking down and capturing birds in their element keeps me hooked on wildlife photography.
For me, photographing birds in the Alicante wetlands is pure joy. It’s not just about getting the perfect shot; it’s about the whole experience—the peace, the patience, the connection with nature. Blending into the environment, waiting for just the right moment—it’s a kind of meditation in itself. Whether it’s the lightning-fast dive of a kingfisher or the piercing stare of an eagle, every single moment reminds me why I love photography and wildlife so much.
I’ve got to give credit where it’s due—my wife, Tina, is the real Most Valuable Spotter when it comes to spotting birds.
Honestly, I’d say at least 95% of our sightings are thanks to her!
She has this incredible talent for spotting birds in the most ridiculously well-camouflaged spots.
I have no idea how she does it, but she never misses a thing.
Love you loads!
We have so much to learn from nature.
The world we create is our responsibility.
The animals don’t get a say in what we pollute—they’re just left to suffer the consequences.
All Images published here are copyright © Antonio Bonacci all rights reserved, they can only be used with the express consent of the author (Antonio Bonacci). © All Rights Reserved – No Use Is Allowed in Any Form Without Written Consent.
