Wakiti

A clownish expression stares back at me from the male lion as he deftly avoids the snapping fangs of his mate.

"Wakiti" means "when" in Swahili. For me, “when” is the determiner of such behaviour.

We watched the male lion, one of two brothers, mating with a newly arrived female in their territory. This occasion was taking place in the warm African bush in the late morning. Every few minutes, the male would slowly muster his energy and interest as his instincts drew him toward the awaiting female. Similarly, she would indicate just beforehand when she was ready for him as she laid down close by, offering the moment for conception.

Mating took place throughout the day and for a few days after we arrived. The younger male lion, his brother, lay a little distance away, quiet, so as not to disturb proceedings. These rituals are a vital and powerful moment in the cycle of life. In the animal kingdom, it is an instinctual guarantee that a species and its life will be passed down to future generations. In these kingdoms too, we easily forget that many species are in decline - even lions - so the opportunity to propagate their genes, manage territories, and continue their populations in the remaining wilderness is a vital and very special part of nature and all who live in it.

A focal element of this shot, for me, was the moment his eyes locked on mine with a look of clownish disbelief. It was an instant, as he pushed away from the lioness who had turned to snap at him, and one that I caught with a rather unusual expression for this king of the beasts.

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.