The problem with most leopards from a human point of view, is that they do not wish to be seen... therefore getting images can be a challenge. One can get close to leopards in some areas of Africa where they have become habituated to us and our open 4x4s.. but I really enjoy going out on my own and to do my best to find the elusive ones..
This was one particular individual that I manage to find.. camera shy , human shy , he walked within 20 meters of me before he spotted me... but the area was very dense... not the ideal BG and FG but the light was great and it was a thrill to capture an image of him..
I like the Van Gogh style "frame" you have around the leopard. Nice peek-a-boo look with a good view at that left eye. I also like the light, color, and comp. Understanding the challenges you faced in getting this image, I don't mind the branch coming down across the body too much but I might look at trying to remove the one across the head .
Peter,
I understand the difficulties. It is not often you see these guys. It is good that you got one eye clear. Without that the image would have lost its impact. It would have been great if the ear would have been completely hidden. Thanks for sharing.
I certainly understand the problems inherient in photograhing them, but non the less, I would have preferred the shutter firing before the head got obscured.
Beautiful specimen Peter. Tricky in that it is quite obscured, but does show the secretive nature of these cats. The eye contact holds it. The light is drop dead gorgeous and can imagine this image being used quite well in illustrating their secretive nature. WD!
Yes you were fortunate to see one of these beauties in the wild. I agree the foliage is slightly distracting but I would be thrilled to have captured this. You did excellent under such difficult circumstances. Congratulations.
I love this one! This really captures the elusiveness of this wonderful animal. And although most of us never would have pressed the shutter, I think you did very well here. Thanks for sharing!
you did well Peter! especially in Mapungubwe where they are not used to humans. it manages to pop nicely even with the busy surrounds. I don't think it's worth it to try and clone our the branch covering the face, considering the amount of detail you would have to pull from who-knows-where :)
leopard
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