The Delaney Journal
Black & White Wildlife Photography from the Heart of Africa
Wild Europe Adventure: In Search of Muskoxen
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 Muskox's reputation for aggression, caution guided my every move. Surprisingly, these wild creatures
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.
The Spirit of Dvorefjell
Author Peter Delaney
On Safari in Kenya: Photographing Wildlife Moments
"Explore Kenya's wildlife through the lens of a safari photographer, Peter Delaney. From lions to giraffes, follow our journey and photography tips in the heart of Africa."
On Safari in Kenya
Photographing Wildlife Moments
Awakening to the Call of the Wild
Slowly awakening, I find myself in darkness, the wind gently stirring the fabric of the tent. Despite the chill in the air, I'm snug beneath a thick duvet, with a comforting warmth emanating from the hot water bottle at my feet. Suddenly, the sound that stirred me repeats—a lion's roar pierces the night, accompanied by the eerie cackling of hyenas and the distinct bark of jackals.
At that moment, I'm momentarily disoriented, until the realization hits me—I'm in Kenya, on safari. I drift back into sleep, attempting to suppress my bubbling excitement for the adventures that await in the days and nights ahead. I awake again, this time to the familiar chime of my iPhone alarm.
Lion Stare
Raw Beauty of the Wild: African Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Safari Preparation: Essentials for Wildlife Photography
The air is crisp as I slip into my robe and flick on the kettle. Being a coffee addict, I've brought some freshly roasted beans from South Africa and my trusty AeroPress. A steaming hot shower invigorates me, and I emerge ready for the day ahead, clad in jeans, a T-shirt, and a snug fleece—always bringing two on safari, one for chilly mornings in the vehicle and one for evenings by the campfire. With my travel mug brimming with aromatic coffee, I set off to rendezvous with my clients. Today marks the beginning of their photography safari with me.
"Sons Of Rosetta" Ruka And Rafiki
Feel the Spirit of the Savanna: Fine Art for Your Walls
As dawn breaks, a gentle pink hue tints the horizon while our 4x4 rumbles along the rugged terrain. My driver, Steve, punctuates the journey with his customary humour, quipping about the "African Massage" as we bounce along. His joke elicits a smile from me and laughter from my guests.
Our ride, a 4x4 Land Cruiser Troopy, is the standard vehicle used by most safari operators—a reliable workhorse with ample space. Ours has been modified for photographers, featuring wide-open windows and removed centre seats to allow for optimal shooting positions. The vehicle's roof can be opened, providing elevated angles for capturing subjects, particularly wildlife in trees or hidden in tall grass. While Steve focuses on navigating the terrain, I keep my eyes peeled for potential photography subjects.
The Art of Photographing African Wildlife
The chilly wind nips at my face, but I'm grateful for my trusty beanie, which keeps my head warm. It doesn't take long before our first wildlife encounter—a pride of lions consisting of five females and a young male sporting the beginnings of a mane.
As we approach, maintaining a respectful distance of about 20 meters, I adhere to my philosophy of not crowding our subjects. Getting too close can trigger a fight-or-flight response, so I prefer a slow, cautious approach from a distance. Alternatively, if the animals are on the move, I opt to let them come to us. This approach ensures the wildlife remains relaxed, allowing us to photograph their natural behaviour.
Lion | Serengeti Boys | Fine Art Prints
Bring the Wild Home: Majestic African Wildlife on Your Walls
Capturing Moments: From Lions to Giraffes
As we approached the lions, I noticed the wide-eyed wonder on my client's face, reminiscent of my own first safari experience. The thrill, the reverence, and the tingling anticipation as you come face to face with a killing machine. Whenever I work with my clients, my first goal is to calm them down and reduce their over-excitement. After all, capturing a sharp photograph requires a steady hand and a calm mind. With a few deep breaths and reassuring words, the familiar click of shutters fills the air.
African Buffalos | Widow makers | Canvas Prints
From the Heart of Africa: Captivating Wildlife Prints for Your Home
As we rounded a corner that morning, one of my beloved trees came into view. Bathed in the soft morning light, with remnants of storm clouds lingering overhead, the Acacia tree stood majestically. However, what truly ignited my photography juices was the sight of tall figures in the distance, gracefully traversing through the long grasses of the savannah. Giraffe! The five Masai giraffes were still a few kilometres away, but I knew their destination—a tree close by. Deciding to position our 4x4 at a distance from the tree, I calculated that we'd need a 200mm focal length lens to capture the composition I envisioned. However, I also instructed my client to have his second camera ready with a wider lens as I had another composition in mind.
Serendipity | Giraffes | Canvas Prints
Safari Splendor: Breathtaking Art for Every Room
With nearly two decades of experience photographing African wildlife, I've become intimately acquainted with animal behaviour. This familiarity often aids me in capturing extraordinary moments. Anticipating the route of the giraffes and predicted that the lead giraffe would stop to assess us before continuing on his way. What, I hadn't anticipated was the near-perfect symmetry that unfolded as the other giraffes continued their graceful stride in the background.
“Camelopard" | Giraffe | Large Canvas Prints
Witness the Wild: African Wildlife Art to Inspire and Delight
My client was thrilled with the resulting composition, and so was I. As the giraffes proceeded toward the tree, it was the last giraffe that provided us with the quintessential African scene. Stretching its neck to reach the last dangling leaves, amidst the lush grass and billowing white clouds, a stunning photographic print was born.
African Buffalo | Large Canvas Prints
Raw Beauty of the Wild: African Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Breakfast in the Mara: A Photographer's Ritual
As my tummy rumbled, signalling perfect timing for breakfast, we made our way to my cherished tree. While my guests stretched their legs, Steve and I swiftly set up a table and chairs, arranging a delightful spread that the lodge had prepared for us: coffee, croissants, muffins, cheeses, and meats. It was a scrumptious breakfast, enjoyed amidst the expansive beauty of the Mara.
Fever Tree Leopard | Wildlife Fine Art Prints
Wild Elegance: Transform Your Home with Powerful Wildlife Prints
Unforgettable Encounters: Big Cats, Super Tuskers, and More
Over the next few days, we were treated to some of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters imaginable—leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo; one memorable morning, we managed to tick off the entire Big Five.
Ol Pejeta|Black Rhinos| Fine Art Prints
ourney to Africa: Stunning Wall Art for Your Space
Ol Pejeta | White Rhino Bull | Acrylic Glass Prints
Captivating Wildlife Prints for Your Home
Kambaku | Old Bull Elephant | Fine Art Prints
Stunning Wall Art for Your Space
One of the most unforgettable highlights for my clients occurred in Amboseli, where we spent an entire morning in the company of one of the last remaining super tuskers in East Africa. It was a magical bucket-list moment to capture and spend time with this gentle pachyderm against the backdrop of the majestic snow-covered Kilimanjaro. But that's a story for another time.
