Karim Iliya | Photographer | Filmmaker | Hawaii | Whale Guide Tonga
Karim Iliya is a professional photographer, drone pilot, filmmaker and whale guide based in Hawaii and Colorado. Having grown up in the Middle East, Asia and Europe, Karim quickly developed a curiosity for the natural world, taking him into the midst of battling whales, exploding volcanoes, and the frozen arctic.
Spending three to four months each year documenting whales, Karim regularly travels internationally to work on a variety of photography and videography projects. His free time is split between Colorado and the Hawaiian islands - freediving, windsurfing, flying drones, camping and photographing the world around him.
What is a typical day like for you?
Depends on the day. Half the days I stare at a computer screen. The other half I am out in the field filming whales fighting underwater or photographing a volcano exploding, hoping today is not my last.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
Traveling, moving to new countries, and exploring different ecosystems and cultures. It made me comfortable adapting to new situations, navigating the world, and instilled a curiosity which propels my photography and filmmaking.
What/who currently inspires you?
Nature, wildlife, and the incredible planet we live on, as well as all the people who work on and film for the BBC natural history unit and photograph for National Geographic.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I moved to Japan to see what would happen with my life. I ran low on money, moved to Cambodia traveled around a bit, and based myself in Maui, Hawaii. All the while doing photography and video. I did all kinds of photo work but only showed the things I wanted to keep shooting. It was a slower process but ultimately meant people got to know me for my wildlife and nature photography.
What do you value most in life?
Variety. It is the spice of life. And time, though I sometimes waste too much of it.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
A healthy planet where conservation is not a job. Animals are not endangered, our planet is stable, people are happy, and there's plenty of natural spaces.
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?
BBC Blue Planet, Planet Earth, My Octopus Teacher, Deep.
What brings you the most joy?
Freediving with animals that are curious and interested in you.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
Photos, videos, and stories that show the world all of the beautiful animals, plants and ecosystems we have on this planet. I hope to have effected change in the way we live and protect wild spaces for thousands of years to come.
