Nwe Ntsongo
Sony A1, FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS, FL: 335mm, S: 1/640, A: F6.3, ISO: 1250
She stared back, her mother sniffing behind her ear reassuring her.
Nwe means “one” and Ntosongo means “young” in Tsonga.
Approaching her, I noticed a hint of caution in her gaze. With each step forward, her demeanour became increasingly guarded. The young Nyala emitted a gentle snort, conveying uncertainty about my presence but finding reassurance in the proximity of her mother nearby. Her ear flicked back and forth, and her dark eyes remained locked on me. The mature female, ever vigilant, acknowledged her offspring's calls but maintained composure as I carefully moved closer.
Encounters with Nyala, though not uncommon in the areas we traversed, were seldom straightforward. These creatures exhibited a skittish nature, initially appearing nonchalant but promptly distancing themselves when approached too closely. However, an opportunity to photograph them arose at our camp, where a female Nyala and her yearling frequented the surroundings, drawn by the abundance of broad-leaved plants and tender grass shoots – their main sources of grazing.
During my days there, they gradually grew accustomed to my presence as I passed by them on my way to meet guides or partake in meals at the boma. These moments allowed me to observe them from increasingly close distances. On one of my last days in that location, I set up my camera equipment and, pretending to head to the usual spot, gradually approached them. Ensuring I remained concealed from their direct line of sight, I successfully closed the gap to just a few meters, capturing a series of photographs of the young Nyala.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life giving.
This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.
