From time to time we have the good fortune to get really close to wildlife. Firstly, always stay safe. Wild animals are wild and can injure or kill you. Secondly, don't go close to wild animals. It is one thing if they know you are there and see you and come to you but don't go to them. Thirdly, don't let predators come close to you.

          When we have close encounters we should try to get intimate images. This Bushbuck came close to us. It helps make the animal feel safer if you avoid eye contact. Look to the side and keep them in your peripheral vision. Move slowly and keep quiet. This fellow and her mate cautiously came towards me. Here are the two images I took:

The first one was taken just before sunrise. There is something special to look right into her eyes. Lift your camera to your eye while still looking to the side then slowly rotate to face the animal. This is an intimate image. The viewer is connecting with the animal. We almost want to touch it. We are staring at each other. This is special.

          The second image was taken a few minutes later as the sun came up. Try to get that warm light fall on the animal. Photographing animals like this with a short to shortish lens from close up is an experience. Try to give your viewer that same experience. The surroundings should not be totally blurred as that is what long lenses do and the experience of meeting the animal in the environment where they live is lost.

          I know that this experience was probably more special to me that it will ever be to the viewer because of my encounter but I try to show that encounter to the viewer. I attempt to catch the intimacy.