African Wildlife Photography | Gallery

The rhythm of nature has called to me, and I find myself returning to the wild. A place where I am insignificant, small and unimportant. I rise before the sun, and set out to find all things wandering, to connect to something innately free so that I can examine my own soul and what freedom exists within me. Standing with the lion, I am so small in stature and strength, yet I strive to possess these same characteristics that he possesses. I watch him hunt, sleep, stretch and roar, and I feel his power.

When the elephant and calf walk by, I simply take in the slow stride and gracefulness of this beautiful creature. They tower above me, their eyes so gentle with long flowing lashes. There is a story in their eyes that captures my attention, and I am drawn to them. They are so fierce when protecting their babies. Experiencing the herd as a whole, watching them protect their young is something as humans we should all observe, as our modern and comfortable lives have separated from this mentally over time. It is beautiful to witness, it stirs the mother within, and I dream of the next day when I can wander with these giants, learn from them, and feel like I am a part of something greater.

The biggest, unexpected surprise, is realizing how many animals live in one small space. I can be with a pride of lions, and see elephants and giraffes in the vicinity. A buffalo herd is also nearby, and there are wildebeest and zebra just over the hillside. Every day I spend in the bush, I can count at least a dozen different species, usually more. Everyday is an adventure, an escape, and a story. Everyday, I am a part of something bigger than myself, then I become the wild.