From the hedgerows of Lorraine to the African plains, he pursues the fleeting moment when wildlife reveals itself.
A graduate of the Alfort veterinary school, Régis Cavignaux has always combined scientific rigour with a passion for nature. Ever since he was a child growing up in the Lorraine countryside, he has been deeply attached to animals, and took up photography to share the beauty of the natural world around him.
He joined the Biosphoto agency in its early days, and for decades Régis has travelled the world - North America, Africa, Asia, Papua - focusing on the local wildlife of Lorraine. He prefers to follow species over the long term to reveal their behaviour and subtleties. His patience and discretion are reflected in vibrant shots, such as the portrait of a long-eared owl - winner of the 2007 Wildlife Photographer of the Year gold medal - or everyday moments, often overlooked but just as remarkable.
The author of Instants volés (2002) and then of the series Le peuple du chemin creux (four volumes since 2009), Régis uses his images as a testimonial: to educate, raise awareness and reconnect viewers with wildlife, from foxes to day gecko.
His work has won him numerous awards: Wildlife Photographer of the Year (2004, 2007), Asferico (2009), Glanzlichter (2013), and he has won prizes in the Montier-en-Der and Marais du Séné competitions.
In addition to his expeditions - as far afield as Kenya and Madagascar - Régis sets out to meet little-photographed species such as the forest cat and the weasel, and to tell their stories as the seasons change. He reminds us of the importance of observing, understanding and respecting local nature, convinced that raising awareness is the first step in preserving our biodiversity.
