SHEEBAS STARE
The lioness remained still, her body relaxed but her eyes keen, scanning the land with quiet authority.
She had settled into the earth, the dry soil beneath her mirroring the warmth of her tawny coat. The morning air was cool, yet the first hints of sunlight stretched across the savannah, catching the subtle contours of her form.
Nearby, the pride lingered in the haze of early rest, their slow, steady breaths blending into the rhythm of the wild. A night’s feast had left them satisfied, their movements unhurried, their focus drifting between sleep and the distant sounds of the waking bush. Even the cautious grazers, ever aware of her presence, moved with a measured ease. They understood this moment—a fragile balance where hunter and hunted coexisted without urgency.
She had chosen her position with intent. Elevated just slightly, she commanded a clear view of her surroundings. Every subtle shift in the landscape registered in her mind—a flick of an ear, the rustle of dry grass, the distant snap of a twig. For now, there was no need for action, only awareness.
The pride’s male stirred in the shade, his heavy frame shifting with the effort of half-wakefulness. He exhaled deeply before settling again, indifferent to the lioness’s watchful presence. She spared him only a passing glance. He had his role, but she was the true keeper of this pride’s fate.
A gentle wind stirred the dust, carrying with it the mingling scents of earth and water, of distant herds and unseen movements. She remained still, her gaze unwavering. She was not waiting—she was observing, understanding, anticipating. And in this brief, quiet moment, before the demands of survival returned, she simply existed.
The name "Sheeba" (also written for Sheeba’s Glance) is often chosen for lionesses because it evokes qualities of regality, strength, and beauty—traits typically associated with lions in the wild, especially dominant females. The name may be inspired by the historical Queen of Sheba, a legendary and powerful queen from ancient Ethiopia and Yemen, known for her wisdom, leadership, and grace. This connection adds a sense of majesty and reverence, as the name conjures an image of a noble and protective figure, much like a lioness guarding her pride.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, 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.
Sony A1, Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS, FL: 306mm, S: 1/500s, A: F6.3, ISO: 2,500.
