Mana Magic


Posted by Morkel Erasmus on Wed Sep 03, 2014 6:24 pm

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I have just returned from hosting a photographic safari to a place that is cemented more and more firmly as my favourite piece of African wilderness after every visit. This place is called Mana Pools. I have photographed the iconic elephant bulls of Mana doing this neat trick to reach the high branches of the Albida trees repeatedly for the past 3 years, and I never get tired of seeing them do it.

I framed wider for the context here, the forest environment which makes you think they were actually of the subspecies African Forest Elephant as opposed to the African Bush Elephant (which they are).

I was testing out the Nikon Df paired with the new 80-400mm for this safari, and I quite liked this combo for use on walking safaris - yes this image was captured on foot...

Techs:
Nikon Df
Nikkor 80-400mm VR-II @ 120mm
f6.3  |  1/500 SS  |  ISO-3600
Morkel Erasmus
www.morkelerasmus.com

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by Carol Clarke on Thu Sep 04, 2014 6:04 am
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Another great illustration of just how agile and clever these huge creatures can be in their quest for the next mouthful! I love the wider view including the habitat Morkel.
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by owlseye on Thu Sep 04, 2014 8:21 am
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I'm with Carol on this one Morkel, the wider view really offers a unique perspective. The elephants now seem to dwarfs relative to the environment... clever composition here.

As I indicated in my recent post, I am endlessly intrigued by elephants and there behavior!
nice work,
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by Gary Briney on Fri Sep 05, 2014 4:18 pm
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Good choice on composition Morkel --- I like the wider view. Great behavior shot!
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by william bickle on Fri Sep 05, 2014 6:43 pm
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Hello Morkel

an excellent documentary type capture

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by quintfineartphoto on Fri Sep 05, 2014 7:06 pm
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I just can't get enough of elephant. This is a great shot. I have never heard of the Mama pools. Will have to look that one up.
 

by Cindy Marple on Sat Sep 06, 2014 4:41 pm
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This place really gives some special lighting and scenery, I can see why it is a favorite. I love the wider scene, those trees are dwarfing the ele's giving perspective on how big they are.
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by Graeme Guy on Sun Sep 07, 2014 2:58 am
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Morkel

I have no criticisms of this at all.....nice soft light and great behaviour shown. The format chosen is spot on.


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by Morkel Erasmus on Mon Sep 08, 2014 5:08 pm
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Thank you all for the kind comments! :D
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by absu on Sun Sep 14, 2014 1:34 am
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Outstanding Morkel..another Superb piece of elephant shot in such magical African jungle-scape..
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