Nwe Ximatsi
1 of 3 images in this seriesHer ear flicked back, observing me as I edged closer.
In Tsonga, "Nwe" translates to "one," while "Ximatsi" signifies "left." This nomenclature derives from a single pointed ear.
As I drew near, her gaze held a trace of caution. With each step I took, her demeanour grew more guarded. The youthful Nyala emitted a soft snort, displaying uncertainty about my presence but finding solace in the proximity of her mother nearby. Her ear flicked back and forth, her dark eyes locked on me. The mature female remained vigilant, aware of her offspring's calls, yet remained composed as I cautiously approached.
Nyala, although a relatively common sight in areas we traversed, seldom allowed for easy encounters. These creatures, are somewhat skittish in nature, and although they might initially appear nonchalant they often promptly distance themselves when one ventures too close. However, fortune seemed to favour me at our camp. A female Nyala and her yearling frequented our surroundings, as the camp's boundary offered an ample supply of broad-leaved plants and tender grass shoots, which constitutes their main food for grazing.
In the days I was there, they grew progressively acclimated to my presence as I routinely passed by them while heading to meet our guides or partake in meals at the boma. These moments gave me the opportunity to observe them from ever-closer distances. On one of my final days at this location, I set up my camera preparations and, pretending that I was headed to the usual place, gradually drew nearer to them. Ensuring I remained concealed from their direct line of sight, I eventually managed to close the gap to a mere few meters, securing a few photographic shots of the juvenile 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.
