See No Evil

Aaron Gekoski's Image

Aaron Gekoski (UK) observes an orangutan sitting quietly in checked shorts, beneath painted figures of the three wise monkeys.

The orangutan was being used for photo opportunities with tourists after a boxing performance. Aaron waited patiently, wanting to record its “stoicism and dignity”.

Orangutans can be physically punished and deprived of food while being trained to box each other, ride bikes and pose for selfies with tourists.

DNA tests taken from more than 100 orangutans previously confiscated from this venue found that many had been removed from the wild and not bred in captivity as claimed.

Behind the lens

Aaron Gekoski

Aaron Gekoski

UK

Aaron has been a photojournalist and filmmaker for more than 15 years. Travelling the globe to report on our complex relationship with wildlife, he’s covered issues from the illegal wildlife and pet trade to deforestation, marine conservation and wildlife tourism. His images have appeared in dozens of global publications and books, and he’s produced or featured in more than 100 short- and long-form documentaries. His films have been acquired by Al Jazeera, Apple TV, Sky, Amazon, National Geographic and others. His documentary Eyes of the Orangutan is currently being shown on National Geographic and his newest documentary Dethroned premiered this summer.

Image details

  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
  • Tamron SP 70-200mm f2.8 lens at 70mm
  • 1/40 at f5  •   ISO 100
  • Safari World, Bangkok, Thailand
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

More images from Aaron Gekoski

View all
Palm-oil survivors Winner
Losing the fight

Support our important work

Help us harness the power of photography to advance scientific knowledge, spread awareness of important issues and nurture a global love for nature.

Donate now

Connections

More images from

Wildlife Photojournalism

Discover more

Sign up to our newsletter

Receive email updates about Wildlife Photographer of the Year news, events, science, products, services and fundraising activities. We may occasionally include third-party content from our corporate partners and other museums. We will not share your personal details with these third parties. You must be over the age of 13. Privacy notice.