The Delaney Journal
Black & White Wildlife Photography from the Heart of Africa

A Rare Encounter: Celebrating the Fever Tree Leopard’s Sony World Photography Awards Shortlist

Award-winning photographer Peter Delaney shares the story behind his Sony World Photography Awards shortlisted image, "Fever Tree Leopard," and the magical moment it was captured in Lake Nakuru.

I’m thrilled to share that my image, “Fever Tree Leopard,” has been shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards 2025! With over 419,000 images submitted globally, this recognition is a dream come true. This image represents a fleeting moment of connection with the wild that I’ll carry with me forever.

To celebrate, I’m offering "Fever Tree Leopard" as an exclusive limited edition fine art print, with only 11 copies available worldwide.

 
Explore the Limited Edition Print

 

“I’m thrilled to share that my Sony Awards shortlist has been featured on RTÉ, Ireland’s national TV station!

Read the full article here

 

 

The Prelude: A Lion's Piercing Gaze

Before the leopard, there was the lion. As the sunset faded over Lake Nakuru, a pride rested near a dirt road. A young male rose and locked eyes with my lens—a moment of raw power and connection captured in my image, "The Stare." It was a powerful prelude, but the fever tree forest held a greater surprise.

 

 
Explore The Stare Print Options

From Still Image to Living Moment: Watch the tension build as the young lion rises, his intense gaze foreshadowing the magic to come.


 
Explore Big Cat Gallery

The Setting: A Magical Afternoon in the Fever Tree Forest

Lake Nakuru’s Fever Tree Forest is a place of otherworldly beauty. I was on safari with a client, and my goal was to help her feel Africa, not just photograph it. We turned off the engine, listened to the birdsong, and soaked in the tranquillity. We even paused for a coffee break, simply to "be" in the heart of the forest. It was a magical, sensory experience.

 

 

From the Intensity of ‘The Stare’ to the Grace of the Fever Tree Leopard—Experience the Untamed Beauty of Lake Nakuru. Little did I know, the fever tree forest held an even greater surprise in store.
— Delaney
 

The Encounter: A Leopard Revealed

As we finished our refreshments, our guide spotted her: a young female leopard, resting on a distant branch. We held our breath. She moved, disappeared into the vegetation, and we repositioned, hoping to predict her path. Our patience was rewarded when she reappeared, climbing onto the massive bough of a towering fever tree. The scene was perfect.

 

As I moved quietly through the forest, my guide signaled me to stop. There, high on the bough of a towering fever tree, was a female leopard. Her sleek coat glistened in the dappled light filtering through the canopy. She was the epitome of grace—resting, then rising, her movements fluid and unhurried. In that moment, I knew I was witnessing something extraordinary.

 

The Shot: Capturing a Fleeting Moment

For a while, she rested. Then, as if attuned to my hopes, she stood up. She turned, walked down the trunk, and in a perfect, fleeting moment, she paused, flicked her tail, and glanced back. I pressed the shutter. I had captured the photograph of a lifetime.

 

 

The Art: Why Black and White

When editing this image, I knew it had to be black and white. Stripping away colour heightens the contrasts and textures—the intricate bark of the fever tree, the leopard’s sleek coat, and the delicate interplay of light and shadow. The result is a portrait that feels both intimate and timeless, a true celebration of nature’s quiet majesty.

 

Own a Piece of This Story: The Limited Edition Print

This image is more than a photograph; it’s a story of patience, magic, and a deep connection with the wild. To celebrate this milestone, I’m offering "Fever Tree Leopard" as a limited edition fine art print.

Each of the 11 available prints is:

  • Hand-signed and numbered by me.

  • A museum-quality, archival print.

  • Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Includes the full "Story Behind the Print."

 
Secure Your Limited Edition Print

 

Visualise the Art: The Leopard in Your Space

Imagine this stunning portrait as the centrepiece of your home. It transforms a room, adding a touch of sophistication and a constant connection to the wild.

 

 

Explore the Full Collection

While the "Fever Tree Leopard" is a special piece, it is part of a larger collection of moments I've been fortunate to capture from the wild.

 
View All Limited Edition Prints
 

A Global Honour

Being shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards is an incredible honour. This image—born from patience, passion, and serendipity—now stands among the best in the world. It is a reminder that the wild has stories to tell, and I am privileged to be a storyteller through my lens.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me.

Peter Delaney

 

 
 
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Large-Format Wildlife Master Prints: Limited Edition

"Old Tusker at Rest" | Limited Edition Print (11 Prints Only)

Discover the tranquility of wildlife with "Old Tusker at Rest," a striking black-and-white print capturing the essence of a magnificent old tusker. This artwork features the tusker in a serene side profile, showcasing his immense size and gentle presence as he grazes peacefully. The details highlight his raised right leg, conveying a sense of calm and majesty.

As part of our Limited Edition Collection, this print is limited to just 11 pieces, meticulously crafted on high-quality acrylic glass to enhance vibrancy and depth. With sizes available up to 270 cm (106 inches), it makes a stunning focal point for any space.

Explore this unique masterpiece and secure your limited edition today!

 

Limited Edition | 2 Prints

240 x 180 cm (5 Ft 11 In x 7 Ft 10 In; 2 prints available): $15,000

 

Transform your space with breathtaking black-and-white wildlife photography. Our Master Prints collection offers both Limited and Open Editions, featuring striking large-format images of African wildlife. These artworks are crafted with precision and designed to create a lasting impression in any room.

 

Master Prints: Limited Edition

 

“Old Tusker At Rest" | Elephant | Limited Edition Print (11 Prints Only)

"Own a Piece of Africa – Iconic Wall Art for the Discerning Collector"

 

Our Limited Edition Collection is designed for collectors and art enthusiasts who seek exclusivity and superior quality. Each piece is produced in a limited run of just 11 prints per image, making these artworks rare and highly sought after. These large-format prints are meticulously crafted on high-quality acrylic glass, enhancing the vibrancy, clarity, and depth of the artwork. Sizes are available up to 240 cm (7 ft 8 in), creating a stunning focal point in any space.

 

Limited Edition | 3 Prints

200 x 150 cm (4 Ft 11 In x 6 Ft 7 In; 3 prints available): $8,000

 

Ideal For:

Art collectors seeking rare, exclusive wildlife pieces

Creating a bold visual impact in homes, offices, or galleries

Key Features:

Limited to 11 pieces per image for exclusivity

Custom sizes up to 240 cm (7 Ft 8 inches) to suit any large space

Specialized Acrylic Glass enhances depth and sharpness

Production takes approximately one month due to the precision involved

 

Limited Edition | 3 Prints

180 x 135 cm (5.9 x 4.4 feet) 3 prints available): $8,000

 

Shipped Worldwide for Free:
We offer free worldwide shipping for all our artwork.

Due to their size and weight, professional installation is required to ensure a safe and secure display.

Samples Available:
We offer samples at the client’s cost to ensure confidence in your purchase. The cost of the sample will be deducted from the final price when the artwork is purchased.

Purchase our Limited Edition Print and own a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that celebrates the beauty of African wildlife

 

Limited Edition | 3 Prints

160 x 120 cm (5 Ft 3 In x 3 Ft 11 In; 3 prints available): $3,500

 

Get in Touch

Ready to secure your limited edition print of the iconic tusker? Don't miss out on this rare opportunity! Contact Peter today to reserve your piece of Africa's wildlife legacy and elevate your collection.

 

Open Edition Sizes Available

180 x 180 cm (5 ft 11 x 5 ft 11 in)

$5200

 

Master Prints: Open Edition Available

In addition to our limited editions, we also offer stunning open edition master prints. These high-quality black-and-white artworks capture the beauty of wildlife, allowing art lovers to enhance their spaces with captivating imagery. Available in various sizes, our open editions provide flexibility and accessibility, making it easy to bring exquisite photography into your home or office. Explore our collection today and find the perfect piece for your space!

 
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