Discover the Secrets Behind Kristin Schnell’s Eye-Opening Bird Photography and Creative Vision
Welcome to this edition of [book spotlight]. Today, we uncover the layers of 'Of Cages and Feathers,' by Kristin Schnell (published by Kehrer Verlag). We'd love to read your comments below about these insights and ideas behind the artist's work.
Photographing birds isn’t just art—it’s storytelling through movement and light.
It’s about capturing not just what birds look like but the emotions and stories they express. Bird photography, when done right, becomes a window into their world—a reflection of fragility, freedom, and survival. Kristin Schnell, through her project Of Cages and Feathers, exemplifies this approach, blending artistic creativity with ecological advocacy. Her work invites photographers to see beyond the lens and into the soul of their subject.
“Her approach offers a lesson in balancing technical precision with artistic vision.”
Kristin’s journey began with a question: how can photography bridge the gap between nature’s beauty and its challenges? By creating dynamic, artificial landscapes for her aviary subjects, she draws attention to the complex relationship between birds and their environment. Her work stands as a call to action—reminding us that photography can do more than capture moments; it can inspire change.
Through her process, you’ll discover actionable techniques to elevate your own craft, while learning how to tell stories that resonate deeply with your audience.
Of Cages and Feathers
Of Cages and Feathers by Kristin Schnell is a visually compelling exploration of the global decline in bird populations and its environmental impact. Inspired by her experiences in northern Germany, Schnell captures intimate moments of birds in an artificial aviary, blending vibrant colors, natural light, and jazz-inspired themes. Through this project, she draws poignant parallels between avian and human social dynamics, advocating for greater empathy and environmental awareness. Widely recognized for her artistic vision, Schnell’s work reflects a deep commitment to both creative storytelling and ecological conservation. (Kehrer Verlag, Amazon)
Birds on Stage
Overview of the project: What inspired you to create Of Cages and Feathers, and how does it reflect your personal connection with birds and their environment?
The inspiration for Of Cages and Feathers stems from my deep fascination with birds as symbols of freedom and fragility. Their dual existence—thriving in the wild yet often confined by human intervention—mirrors broader themes of personal and societal constraints. This project reflects my own connection with nature and explores the tension between captivity and liberty, inviting viewers to reconsider their relationship with the natural world.
Artistic vision and approach: Your images integrate artificial landscapes and natural bird behavior. How do you conceptualize and set up these striking visual compositions?
I aim to create a dialogue between artificial and natural elements. Each composition starts with a concept that reflects themes of freedom, confinement, and the complex relationship between humans and nature. I carefully design the artificial elements to contrast or complement the birds' natural behavior, allowing their movements and interactions to bring the scene to life.”
My approach to these compositions is rooted in creating a balance between the artificial and the natural. I design environments that draw attention to the complexity of the relationship between humans and nature, often using vibrant, surreal elements that contrast with the birds' instinctual behaviors. The idea is to reflect the tension between freedom and captivity, as well as the way we, as humans, often impose artificial structures on the natural world. In setting up these images, I focus on capturing the spontaneity and fluidity of bird movements, allowing them to be the central narrative while the constructed elements create a dynamic, sometimes chaotic backdrop.
Breathing Light
Storytelling in photography: The decline of bird populations is a significant theme in your work. How do you use your photographs to communicate this ecological crisis and its broader implications?
Through abstraction and symbolism, my photographs highlight the fragility of bird populations and their habitats. The use of artificial, garishly colorful setups draws attention to the grotesque worlds that birds are often kept in. I aim to evoke emotional connections, encouraging viewers to reflect on the broader environmental crisis and humanity's role in it.
I use photography as a medium to evoke both the beauty and fragility of birdlife, highlighting the emotional and ecological consequences of their decline. Through the imagery, I aim to create a sense of urgency by juxtaposing the birds’ vulnerability with the artificial landscapes they inhabit, often exaggerated or surreal in nature. The photographs not only showcase the birds themselves but also tell the larger story of how human actions, such as habitat destruction and climate change, affect these species. The absence of birds in certain spaces or the sense of confinement in my work reflects the ongoing loss and the need for collective awareness and action to protect them.
Citylights
Challenges and perseverance: Creating a studio in an aviary is unique. What were the challenges of working in such a dynamic and unpredictable environment, and how did you adapt?
Working in an aviary presented many challenges, especially with the unpredictable factors of wind, sunlight, and weather. Since the birds don’t always enter the set when I think the light is perfect, I had to continuously adapt to the circumstances rather than sticking to the original concept. I learned to embrace spontaneity and accept that sometimes it’s the randomness that shapes the final image.
One of the main challenges of working in an aviary is the unpredictability of both the birds and the environment itself. Birds do not follow a script, and their behavior is often spontaneous and influenced by weather, light, or other factors. The wind, sun, and changing conditions made it difficult to control when and where the birds would appear in the frame. I had to be flexible and adapt my approach to the moment, allowing the environment and the birds to dictate the image rather than sticking rigidly to a pre-conceived idea. I had to learn to embrace chance and trust in the unpredictability of the process, which in many ways became part of the story I wanted to tell.”
Role of the photographer: You’ve described parallels between bird social structures and human relationships. How do you explore these themes visually in your photographs?
I explore the parallels between bird social structures and human relationships by capturing moments that highlight both the harmony and tension within these systems. Through the birds' behavior, I visually emphasize themes such as communication, isolation, and connection. By creating artificial environments, I mirror the complexities of human relationships, inviting viewers to reflect on how we interact with one another and with the natural world.
Farewell
Connection with the subject: You’ve taken in abused and needy birds, forming deep connections with them. How does this bond influence the way you photograph them?
The bond I form with the birds deeply influences how I photograph them. It allows me to approach them with patience, sensitivity, and an understanding of their behavior. This connection helps me capture more authentic moments, as I’m not just photographing an animal, but a being whose story I’ve witnessed. I aim to reflect their vulnerability, strength, and resilience in a way that tells their unique stories, while also highlighting the emotional connection we share.
Mikado
Technical and creative tips: Your work combines mirrors, flowers, and other elements to create vibrant compositions. What advice would you offer photographers experimenting with constructed environments?
My advice would be to embrace the process of trial and error. Constructed environments allow for complete creative freedom, but they also require patience and flexibility. Pay attention to the smallest details, as they can have a big impact on the overall composition. Experiment with light, reflection, and the way different elements interact with each other. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments in the moment, as spontaneous changes can often lead to unexpected, beautiful results.
Summertimes
Photography as advocacy: Your work calls for greater respect for nature and animals. How do you see photography as a tool for driving awareness and change regarding environmental issues?
I believe photography has the power to evoke deep emotional responses, making it a powerful tool for raising awareness about environmental issues. Images can capture the beauty, fragility, and urgency of nature, which words alone often cannot convey. By portraying animals and ecosystems in ways that highlight their vulnerability and interconnectedness, photography can inspire viewers to reflect on their own impact on the environment and motivate them to act. It’s about creating a visual narrative that sparks empathy and encourages change.
Advice for emerging photographers: For those seeking to merge personal passion with impactful projects, what lessons from Of Cages and Feathers would you share to inspire their creative process?
My advice would be to stay true to your vision and trust the process. Of Cages and Feathers taught me that meaningful projects often require time, patience, and perseverance. Don’t be afraid to explore deeply personal themes, as they can create a strong emotional connection with your audience. Also, be open to experimentation—sometimes, the most powerful images come from unexpected moments. Finally, remember that photography is not just about capturing what’s in front of you, but about conveying a message that resonates on a deeper level.
To discover more about this intriguing body of work and how you can acquire your own copy, you can find and purchase the book here. (Kehrer Verlag, Amazon)
Kristin Schnell’s Of Cages and Feathers is currently showcased in two prestigious exhibitions: Nature on Notice: Contemporary Art and Ecology at LACMA (running until August 2, 2025) and the Critical Mass Top 50 exhibition by Photolucida (January 14–February 8, 2025, with an in-person reception on January 23, 2025).
More photography books?
We'd love to read your comments below, sharing your thoughts and insights on the artist's work. Looking forward to welcoming you back for our next [book spotlight]. See you then!
