Killer Thirst

[Morkel Erasmus]

This pride of lions hung around Klein Namutoni waterhole in Etosha for a few days in November 2013...first quenching their thirst at sunset on the 29th, and then killing a giraffe right in front of me on the morning of the 30th, whereafter 2-3 days were spent disposing of their quarry. This was from the first afternoon.

For the full "prelude" story plus more pics, check out my blog post: http://blog.morkelerasmus.com/2014/0...e-prelude.html

As far as prides go, this one had an unusual amount of subadult males and very few females. I presume some of the females were perhaps away with fresh litters as they have been spotted with more females and cubs of late.

Techs:
Nikon D800
Nikkor 500mm f4 VR-II
f7.1 | 1/800 SS | ISO-1100

[Nancy Bell]

Good composition with the 3 lions all leaning down and drinking in the same pose. I like that you see the eyes looking up on the closest 2, as well as open mouths. Nice soft light. All seems peaceful and relaxed. But I read your blog and am now waiting for the battle to come.

[Tobie Schalkwyk]

Nice scene, Morkel! I'll never get used to these cats - they're simply amazing! Well captured!

[Neil Burton]

Great scene Morkel, something is nagging me for more LHS? Maybe just the way the first male is looking ahead. Otherwise top shot and composition, if you have more canvas, is the right choice.

[Andreas Liedmann]

Hi Morkel , like the scene you captured with nice colors and good tonal range .I would leave the crop as is .Only suggestion i have is a slight mid tone to the 1/2 tones in the subjects , just for a bit more richness without loosing the OP character.


TFS Andreas

[Marc Mol]

Very nice Morkel, love the low angle and comp here, these 2 sub adult males are going to make a formidable coalition once mature.

TFS

[BenBotha]

I agree with the possible slight boost in mid tones, the rest perfect. I hope I am also lucky to see them in 6 weeks when in Etosha.
Ben

[Steve Kaluski]

I like the light on this one Morkel, you also have a nice layering to give depth to the image, perhaps pull the blue back a bit in the BKG?

TFS
Steve

[Rachel Hollander]

Hi Morkel - Comp, low pov and inclusion of habitat all work well for me. Good suggestions above for improving an already excellent image.

TFS,
Rachel

[edwardselfe]

Love it - would also like a little more on the LHS and perhaps a boost in the colours to add richness.
Ed