Wild Europe Adventure: In Search of Muskoxen

Wild Europe Adventure: In Search of Muskoxen

Dovrefjell National park

Dovrefjell National park

Field Notes Excerp

A few weeks ago, I embarked on an adventurous hike to trek Muskoxen in Dvorfell, Norway. However, the current global lockdown has confined my family and me to our homes. Taking a break from my daily routine, I decided to revisit my field notes from this memorable trip.

Fellow Photographers traversing the snow fields of Dovrefjell National park

Stepping out of My Comfort Zone

The journey was a thrilling experience that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Instead of my usual attire of shorts, shirt, and sunscreen in a safari vehicle, I found myself dressed in ski clothing, snowshoes, and a backpack.

Searching for the Elusive Muskoxen

Searching for the Elusive Muskoxen

During our six-day excursion, we encountered various challenges while searching for the elusive Muskoxen. My body ached from the arduous trek up and down hills. The weather shifted abruptly, alternating between blue skies with a gentle breeze and snow-blanketed landscapes battered by 40km winds. Hope was fading until a shout from my companion reignited our spirits.

Friend and fellow photographer searching for the elusive Muskox

Two Muskoxen graze on lichen covered rocks

The First Encounter

After hours of perseverance, I caught my first glimpse of the Muskoxen. Three massive males stood before us, surpassing my expectations in size and magnificence. As a novice in capturing this subject, I felt a sense of unfamiliarity, navigating the snowy terrain on foot. Being aware of the Muskoxen's reputation for aggression, caution guided my every move. Surprisingly, these wild creatures eventually accepted our presence.

Muskox Bull deadly stare

Challenging Photographic Conditions

Documenting the Muskoxen in Dvorfell proved to be a demanding task. The freezing temperatures numbed my hands, hindering my dexterity. Lacking a bean bag or tripod, I improvised by resting my camera on my backpack. With limited sensitivity in my numb fingers, I adapted my technique, even switching fingers to release the shutter. Realizing I had only one chance to capture these precious moments, the pressure mounted.

Peter using backpack as a stabiliser

Peter getting a better perspective

A Captivating Moment Unfolds

In the midst of turbulent weather, the Muskoxen lay close together in the snow. Finally, as the storm subsided, one of the creatures stood and approached a rock adorned with lichen. At that very moment, a gust of wind swept across the landscape, unveiling the stunning copper tones of its magnificent coat. Hastily, I transitioned from recording a video to capturing still images, preserving this unique and captivating moment.

Side Parting Muskox Style

These field notes recount a remarkable adventure in Dvorfell, Norway, where I ventured outside my comfort zone, overcame challenges, and immortalized the beauty of the Muskoxen in the face of nature's fury.

Muskox alert pose

Muskox Encounter: An Unexpected Charge

While observing the Muskoxen in Dvorefjell, Norway, I witnessed the potential danger of getting too close to these magnificent creatures. In a matter of seconds, a bull Muskox went from a peaceful sitting position to a full charge. Although I maintained a safe distance, I was taken aback by the sudden movement. Unfortunately, my colleague made the mistake of approaching too upright, triggering the bull's aggressive response.

The Spirit of Dvorefjell

A Split-Second Decision

Reacting swiftly, I managed to capture a single image before instinct kicked in. I threw my camera to the ground and quickly ran towards the Muskox, shouting to divert its attention away from my vulnerable colleague. The bull was now standing over my friend, attempting to headbutt him. Thankfully, my colleague had the protection of snowshoes, which shielded him from harm.

Muskox on rocky outcrop

Distraction and Escape

With adrenaline coursing through my veins, I employed a tactic of shouting and vigorously waving my arms, attempting to make myself appear larger and more threatening. This distraction strategy momentarily diverted the bull's focus, providing my friend with a few precious seconds to move away from danger. The bull eventually turned away, walked toward the other two bulls, and they exchanged greetings. They then settled back down, relaxed once more.

Muskox bonding after charge

Muskox looking at me…

A Lesson Learned and a Lucky Escape

This harrowing encounter served as a reminder of the Muskox's unpredictable nature and the importance of respecting their boundaries. It was a narrow escape for both my colleague and me, leaving an indelible lesson that will be forever etched in our memories.

Editing the Image: The Spirit of Dvorefjell

While post-processing the image taken during this intense moment, I aimed to convey the ethereal essence of Dvorefjell. To achieve this effect, I opted for a high-key background, giving the impression that the Muskox is suspended in mid-air. Inspired by the intense encounter and the spirit of the location, I named the image "Spirit of Dvorefjell."

These additional details provide insight into a nerve-wracking experience with a charging bull Muskox and the subsequent image editing process, emphasizing the lessons learned and the artistic interpretation of the encounter.

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The Spirit of Dvorefjell

Author Peter Delaney

The Timeless Appeal of Black and White Wildlife Photography

The Essence of Black and White Photography

Black and white photography has a timeless quality that transcends trends and technological advancements. In the world of wildlife photography, removing color strips an image down to its essence, revealing the raw beauty, emotion, and power of nature in its purest form. From the intricate wrinkles of an elephant’s skin to the piercing gaze of a lion, monochrome photography allows us to focus on what truly matters—the subject, its emotion, and its story.

Take, for example, my black-and-white fine art print "Heart of Darkness"—a chilling portrait of a Kalahari black-maned lion on the hunt. His predatory gaze captures the raw intensity of nature, evoking the primal fear our ancestors once felt in the presence of these majestic creatures. Or consider "Big Foot," an award-winning close-up of an elephant’s foot that celebrates the overlooked details of the wild. These images, and others like them, are more than photographs; they are windows into the soul of the natural world.

"Heart of Darkness" – A chilling portrait of a Kalahari black-maned lion on the hunt.

"Heart of Darkness,"

My black-and-white fine-art print captures a moment with a Kalahari black-maned lion that will leave you feeling both exhilarated and unnerved. This lion has murder on his mind as he hunts a female and cubs from another pride. Just a few minutes before, I watched an anxious mother and cubs run towards me and pass me, not realizing the danger they were in. It wasn't until the male lion came into view that I understood why they were in such a hurry. I followed as far as I could, photographing him as he walked after the lioness and cubs.

As you gaze upon the lion's intense eyes in this print, you'll feel the fear that our forefathers once experienced in the presence of these majestic creatures. The lion's predatory gaze is a chilling reminder of the danger that once threatened their families and livestock. Hang "Heart of Darkness" on your wall and feel the connection between man and beast, a reminder of the fragility and strength of our world.

"Big Foot" – An award-winning close-up of an elephant’s foot, celebrating the overlooked details of the wild.

Let me introduce you to "Big Foot", one of my most cherished black-and-white fine art prints. This close-up of an elephant’s foot captured at Mapungubwe Game Reserve earned the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2011 award in the Nature in Black and White category.

The story behind this image is one of serendipity and creativity. 🐘 It was a cold morning in the hide—no coffee, no short lens, just a 600mm telephoto in hand. When a herd of elephants came within 20 meters, I embraced the challenge. Instead of wide shots, I zoomed in on the details: the tusks, the eyes, the tail... and then, this striking foot. Sometimes, limitations inspire the most remarkable creations.

This print has become a symbol of patience, adaptability, and the beauty of focusing on the overlooked. It’s available as a fine art black-and-white print, perfect for collectors and nature enthusiasts.

A Personal Journey:

From the Trading Floor to the Darkroom

My journey into black and white photography began in an unexpected place—the heart of London’s financial district. As a money broker for 14 years, I lived in a fast-paced world of numbers, deals, and high-pressure decisions. But amidst the chaos, I found solace in the quiet moments spent in bookshops, poring over the works of legendary photographers. One image in particular—a haunting black-and-white portrait by Don McCullin—stirred something deep within me. As an Irish immigrant, I saw reflections of my own journey in that photograph, sparking an unshakable curiosity for the art of storytelling through imagery.

Determined to explore this passion, I enrolled in night classes and immersed myself in the world of film photography. I spent countless hours in the darkroom, learning the nuances of light, shadow, and composition. Even as digital technology revolutionized the field, my foundation in traditional black and white printing remained the backbone of my artistic vision. Today, this journey has come full circle, as I dedicate my life to capturing Africa’s wildlife through the lens of monochrome photography.

🐆 Fever Tree Leopard – A Rare Encounter in the Wild 🖤  

Deep within the Fever Tree Forest of Lake Nakuru, this limited edition black-and-white fine art print captures a graceful female leopard resting on the bough of a towering fever tree. Bathed in dappled light, she embodies the quiet majesty of Africa’s untamed wilderness.  

Only 11 prints available worldwide – each hand-signed, numbered, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity

The Emotional Impact of Black and White Photography

One of the most compelling aspects of black and white wildlife photography is its ability to evoke emotion. Without the distraction of color, viewers are drawn into the composition, focusing on texture, contrast, and form. The interplay between light and shadow creates drama and depth, enhancing the emotional weight of the image.

For me, monochrome is more than just a stylistic choice—it’s a way of seeing. It allows me to strip away distractions and create imagery that speaks to the heart of my audience.

“Weathering the Tempest,” this black-and-white portrait of a lion and lioness

in the Masai Mara reveals a quiet power, capturing a fleeting moment against a dramatic African sky. Framed by brooding storm clouds and a lone tree in the vast savannah, this image conveys not just a scene but a story of resilience and connection.

The lion, poised and looking beyond the frame, suggests an unseen tension, while the lioness, lying down after a brief moment of intimacy, meets the viewer’s gaze directly. Together, they hold an intensity that speaks to their shared strength in the face of nature’s looming tempest.

“By using a wide lens, I included the vastness of the Mara and the dramatic sky, giving the image a sense of place and scale. In the digital darkroom, I translated the scene into monochrome, using light and shadow to guide the viewer’s eye through the image. The result was a black-and-white print that not only documented the moment but also told a story of strength, connection, and the raw beauty of the wild”

A Moment of Contemplation:

The Story Behind My Award-Winning Chimpanzee Portrait

Some of my most memorable experiences in the wild have been through my camera lens—watching elephants interact in a way that mirrors human relationships or witnessing a predator in deep contemplation before the hunt. But one encounter stands out above the rest: my time with the chimpanzees of Kibale National Park in Uganda.

Trekking through the ancient rainforests of Kibale was no simple task. Hours of slow-paced trekking yielded only brief, elusive glimpses of great apes high in the canopy. Time was running out, and I was anxious about the lack of sightings.

Then, it happened. A chimpanzee descended from the trees, followed by a flurry of them, like paratroopers. Watching them engage in what seemed like a hunt was heart-pounding. It ended as swiftly as it began, leaving behind an eerie silence. Taking a chance, I sought permission to venture off on my own. Resting on a fallen log, I sensed a presence. There he was—Totti, an alpha male chimpanzee, with penetrating hazel eyes, fixated on a female high above. His desire and dejection were palpable.

Unexpectedly, Totti lay on his back, a posture of resignation and longing. My instincts as a photographer kicked in, and I captured a moment of profound contemplation. This image, Contemplation, became a black-and-white fine art print and later won the Animal Portraits category at Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2017.

Dreaming in the Forest | Contemplative Chimpanzee Art

“a chimpanzee contemplates the world around him with deep thought and introspection. This intimate portrait captures the thoughtful gaze of one of Africa’s most intelligent creatures. If you're looking for wild animal art that adds a sense of wonder to your home, this chimpanzee fine art print invites you to pause, reflect, and admire the contemplative nature of the wild. The black and white photography creates a striking contrast that enhances the soulful gaze of the chimpanzee”

Crafting a Black and White Masterpiece

Achieving a striking black and white wildlife photograph requires a thoughtful approach to lighting, composition, and post-processing. Here are some key techniques I use in my work:

• Lighting: Strong directional light enhances contrast and texture, making black and white images more dynamic. Early morning or late afternoon light creates beautiful shadows and highlights.

• Composition: Framing and perspective are crucial. Leading lines, negative space, texture, shape and form all help create balanced and impactful compositions.

• Post-Processing: Converting an image to black and white is more than desaturating colors. Adjusting tonal contrast, deepening shadows, and enhancing highlights in the digital darkroom helps bring out the drama and mood of the image.

Each of my black and white images undergoes a meticulous editing process. While technical precision is essential, I place equal emphasis on the emotional connection between the viewer and the subject. This connection is what elevates a good photograph to a great one.

My goal is to ensure that every print conveys the emotion I felt in the moment of capture—transforming it from a mere image into an experience frozen in time.

Bonds of Love | Elephant Herd Protecting Baby in Addo

A powerful image of an elephant herd surrounding a baby, providing shelter and comfort in a moment of distress. Captured in Addo National Park, this black-and-white portrait speaks to the deep familial bonds that exist in the animal kingdom.

Transform your space into a tranquil oasis with photographs that celebrate the profound beauty of Africa. Observing elephants is a deeply moving experience that resonates with the soul, showcasing their ability to form unbreakable bonds and express a spectrum of emotions, from tender affection to fierce protectiveness.

Featured Black and White Wildlife Prints

Buffalos | Masai Mara, Kenya | Black Death

A herd of Cape buffalo moves through the Mara Conservancy, their curved horns silhouetted against the dramatic African sky. This black-and-white image captures the power and majesty of one of Africa’s most iconic and dangerous animals.

Leopard on the Prowl | Fine Art Prints

 A leopard stealthily moves along a tree branch, its sleek body blending into the surroundings. Captured in black and white, this photograph evokes the elegance and stealth of one of Africa’s most elusive predators.

Synchronicity | White Rhinos in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Two white rhinos graze in harmony at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, their movements perfectly synchronized. This black-and-white photograph reflects the balance and serenity of Africa’s wildlife, reminding us of the beauty of peaceful coexistence.

 Queen of the Mara – a powerful black-and-white portrait 

This exquisite piece fills the frame with the graceful yet imposing presence of a female elephant, whose strikingly long tusks and extended trunk touch the earth, embodying her enduring strength and legacy. With ears flared and head turned toward the viewer, she commands attention against a backdrop of soft Mara clouds, creating a timeless, ethereal composition.

Photographed in the Mara North Conservancy, this regal matriarch has since passed away of natural causes, leaving behind an impressive lineage. Her legacy lives on in her daughter, whose portrait, The Matriarch, complements this piece beautifully.

Norman the Kalahari black maned Lion | Majestic African Lion in Black and White

Norman, the renowned Kalahari lion, stands tall in the misty landscapes of Addo National Park, South Africa. This powerful black-and-white portrait captures the regal presence of one of Africa’s most revered lions, showcasing his strength and noble spirit.

Bring the Wild Into Your Home

Black and white wildlife photography is more than just an art form—it’s an invitation to connect with nature on a deeper level. These timeless pieces make a striking statement in any home or office, offering both aesthetic beauty and emotional depth.

Explore my collection of black and white wildlife prints and find the perfect piece for your space. Each image is a story waiting to be told, a piece of Africa to bring into your home.

Large-Format Wildlife Master Prints: Limited Edition

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!