My name is Alexandra Surkova and I'm a professional wildlife photographer based in Madrid. In 2020 I spent hours in a tent, in 40 degree heat to photograph an owl. The experience had a profound effect on me and I have been a wildlife photographer ever since.

Today, I am the person who rises excitedly at 3AM to witness extraordinary moments — a lynx passing by my side or a baby owl awaiting its mother's feeding with an open mouth. These encounters fuel my passion for wildlife photography and drive me to capture the beauty and wonders of the natural world.

You were one of the first to test the Alpha 6700. What were your first impressions and stand out features for you?

When I took the camera out of the box, the first thing I thought was, could it be possible that such a small and light camera has all the necessary features to cope with such a difficult task as wildlife photography? After spending a few days with it, I can confidently say that yes it does, and it even goes beyond.

The AI-powered autofocus system in the new camera sets a new standard for wildlife photography. Imagine an eagle or a vulture hidden in the grass. This camera is not only capable of focusing on the animal despite the immense difficulty, but it recognises the eye, and when this is not in view, the focus remains on the bird's body. As soon as the eye becomes visible again, the camera immediately detects it.

How will these features help the type of photography you and others in the same field do?

I was thoroughly impressed by its design and functionality. The ergonomics have a good balance between compactness and operability which allowed me to quickly make adjustments without taking my eye off the viewfinder, ensuring I never missed a crucial moment. It's a true game-changer for capturing those decisive shots. One standout feature for me, especially as a wildlife photographer, is the camera's exceptional portability. Despite its impressive range of high-end features, the Alpha 6700 maintains a compact and lightweight form, making it a fantastic companion for long treks into the wilderness. I don’t have to compromise on quality or carry around heavy equipment.

Overall, the camera has exceeded my expectations. The thoughtful design, portability, and intuitive controls make it an excellent choice for photographers looking to capture stunning shots with ease. I highly recommend it for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

But honestly, the best part? This camera's affordability makes it accessible to photographers of all backgrounds, allowing a broader range of enthusiasts to join the wild side of wildlife photography. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this camera is your ticket to capturing awe-inspiring moments in nature without breaking the bank.

Lenses are another core component of creating images. Which Sony lenses did you use for your initial test and why?

My first adventure with the new Alpha 6700 involved employing my dependable 200-600mm G and 400mm GM lenses. These have both been instrumental in my wildlife photography journey, with their exceptional image quality rendering detailed and vibrant images of wildlife.

As a user of the Alpha 1 full-frame camera, using an APS-C model like the Alpha 6700 gives me an advantage with the 1.5x crop factor, allowing me to photograph animals from a further distance. For example, the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS lens, which might not typically be sufficient for wildlife, becomes a 105-525mm lens on the Alpha 6700, making it an ideal focal length for this type of photography. Moreover, the camera’s full compatibility with all Sony lenses allowed me to use my super prime 600mm f/4 GM, effectively turning it into an incredible 900mm on the 6700. This gives me the ability to capture stunning bokeh with a focal length that is unthinkable for a full-frame model. These features are particularly useful for capturing unique and fleeting moments of wildlife behaviour with high detail.

What advice would you give photographers who look up to you and your work?

Wildlife photography is like a thrilling game of hide-and-seek, except the animals don't know they're playing! The Alpha 6700 could be your secret weapon to capture those elusive moments and bring them to life. Laugh at the unexpected encounters, embrace the challenges, and celebrate the hilarious antics of the wildlife you encounter. Through your images, you can not only capture the beauty of nature but also share a good chuckle with your audience, reminding them that conservation can be both impactful and fun!

Do you have any parting advice for our readers? 

There is one thing I'd like you to remember: every frame you capture tells a story. Great wildlife photography isn't about shooting continuously in the hope of capturing one good image, but rather it's about observation, patience, and intuition. Spend time understanding the behaviour of your subject. Wait for that perfect moment, the unique interaction, the specific gesture that tells its own tale. The goal is not just to document, but to communicate the essence of your subject. So, when you’re behind the lens, you're not just taking a picture, you're telling a story. Make it a good one.