Geoffrey “Geoff” Jones - Bird Photographer
Q: You’re such a classic Aussie bloke — why birds?
A: Funny story. I actually started as a sports fisherman, traveling the world chasing barramundi and other big game fish. But even then, while waiting for tides to change, I’d find myself watching birds. Eventually, I realised I didn’t like hurting fish anymore. I still had the instinct of a hunter, though — so I turned my lens to birds.
Q: Was there a turning point?
A: Yes. I went on safari in Africa with Glenn Yeheld. I photographed everything, but what really caught my eye were the birds. Back home, I compared my photos to those on American birding sites — and saw mine weren’t up to scratch. The difference was gear. So I invested about $33,000 in professional cameras and lenses, and from then on, I was hooked.
Q: How did you learn?
A: After I got married in 2007, I flew straight to Florida to learn from Jim Neiger, who was the best bird-in-flight photographer at the time. From there I was introduced to South America, and the journey really took off.
Q: How many countries have you birded in?
A: Around 50 — from Thailand, Indonesia, and PNG to South and Central America. I deliberately avoided North America during the Trump years, and I’ve also saved India and China for later — each would easily give me another 500 species. Right now, I’m fourth in the world, aiming for 8,000 species.
Q: What happens after 8,000?
A: (Laughs) I’ll probably be too old! Maybe I’ll push for 9,000. But honestly, I do it for myself — and to support conservation. I work closely with the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and have also helped groups overseas. During COVID, I sent around $200,000 to guides to help them survive.
Q: Have you photographed nearly all of Australia’s birds?
A: Just about. I’ve got about eight left, most of them in Western Australia. My partner Jennifer and I are heading across the Nullarbor soon to track those down.
Q: What about the night parrot — the holy grail?
A: That one takes time and patience. There’s been a lot of controversy around it. I was there early on when John Young rediscovered it, and I even heard its call. But unfortunately, he got involved with the wrong people and his reputation collapsed. Birding can get political, especially when journalists get involved — I’ve had my share of run-ins.
Q: After everything, what keeps you going?
A: It’s the same instinct I had as a fisherman — but now it’s about capturing, not killing. Every new species is a thrill. Birds take me around the world, but they also keep me grounded. This passion has given me a purpose, and I’ll keep going as long as I can.