Name: Gerard Carbonell
Picture title: Bed Time
Category: Humans and Nature
Nationality: Spain
Occupation: Full-time photographer and biologist
Technical information
Camera: OM System OM-1
Lens: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 II Pro
EXIF: 1/10 sec at f/4.5 • ISO 400
Accessories: none
HIGHLY COMMENDED CATEGORY HUMANS AND NATURE
Gerard Carbonell | Bed Time
Name: Gerard Carbonell
Picture title: Bed Time
Category: Humans and Nature
Nationality: Spain
Occupation: Full-time photographer and biologist
Technical information
Camera: OM System OM-1
Lens: M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 II Pro
EXIF: 1/10 sec at f/4.5 • ISO 400
Accessories: none
Gerard Carbonell says:
Niete is a recently rescued chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) saved from a poacher who intended to sell her as a pet, while her family was killed for bushmeat. When young chimpanzees lose their mothers before their eyes, they experience trauma and require extensive care and compassion to be rehabilitated. A dedicated team of caregivers is now providing round-the-clock attention to Niete at the Limbe Wildlife Centre, a rescue and rehabilitation center focused on the unique species of Cameroon.
Rebuilding a bond of trust with a chimpanzee requires immense love and commitment. In this image, Niete has fallen asleep in the arms of Godlove after her bottle of warm milk at night. Godlove spends entire nights holding her close as she grows bigger, stronger, and confident enough to eventually be introduced to other chimpanzees rescued from the bushmeat trade.
Gerard Carbonell
Spain
I am a biologist and conservation photographer, based in Barcelona since 1999, dedicated to creating images that help the public understand the natural world and our complex relationship with it.
I approach my work with passion, commitment, respect, and responsibility. Each photograph is an opportunity to grasp highly complex situations that would otherwise be difficult to access. Photography has opened my mind countless times, revealing its powerful ability to shift perspectives, connect me to the planet, and deepen my understanding of life. Documenting conservation projects brings me a sense of purpose, making me feel alive, useful, and grateful—exactly where I want to be. My foremost principle in this work is respect: respect for nature, animals, and people.
My main goal as a photographer is to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and highlight the efforts of organizations and communities working to preserve it. Through my images and stories, I strive to engage the public and underscore the urgent need to support conservation initiatives.