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

"The Last Northern White Rhinos"

Explore the moving story of the last Northern White Rhinos and their legacy of hope through fine art prints. Discover stunning wildlife photography and support conservation efforts.

Legacy of Hope: The Last Northern White Rhinos

 

Wildlife Photography Prints

 

A Glimpse into the Lives of the Last Northern White Rhinos

In the heart of Africa, two majestic creatures stand as the last of their kind. The Northern White Rhinos, Najin and Fatu, represent not just a species on the brink of extinction but a legacy of hope and resilience. Captured through the lens of award-winning wildlife photographer Peter Delaney, these fine art prints tell a poignant story of survival and the urgent need for conservation.

 

Northern White Rhino

The Horn Is The Rhino Achilles Heel

 

The Struggle for Survival

The Northern White Rhinos' journey has been fraught with challenges. Decimated by poaching and habitat loss, their numbers have dwindled to just these two surviving females. Their story is a stark reminder of the impact of human activities on wildlife and the importance of protecting endangered species.

Across the years, meticulous efforts have been invested in preserving the legacy of the northern white rhinos. Semen from the last male and eggs from the remaining females have been safeguarded. In a groundbreaking development, an astounding 30 embryos have been meticulously crafted. Recently, a surrogate southern white rhino has been chosen to bear the weight of these precious embryos. If successful, this momentous leap holds the potential to rescue the species from the edge of oblivion.

 

"The Last Northern White Rhinos" black and white picture

 

Two weeks ago, I was granted the extraordinary privilege of stepping into the heart of Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya, a refuge for the last remaining northern white rhinos on Earth. Within this sanctuary, I encountered the two remaining females, steadfast guardians of a lineage teetering on the edge of extinction.

Under the vigilant watch of dedicated rangers, these majestic creatures freely roam within a secure enclosure. Remarkably, only two females remain, both beyond the age of bearing calves. Yet, a global coalition of conservationists and scientists has kindled a spark of hope.

 
a black and whit photo of "The Last Northern White Rhinos"
 

Capturing Their Essence in Fine Art

Peter Delaney's photographs of Najin and Fatu are more than just images; they are a tribute to these magnificent animals and their fight for survival. Each print is meticulously crafted to highlight the rhinos' unique characteristics and the environment they inhabit. Through his work, Delaney aims to raise awareness and inspire action towards conservation.

 

Northern White Rhinos Have shorter Tails than Other Rhinos

 

The Artistic Process

Creating these fine art prints involves a detailed process that ensures the highest quality. From capturing the perfect shot in the wild to the careful post-processing and printing on premium materials, every step is undertaken with precision and care. The result is a collection of prints that not only depict the beauty of the Northern White Rhinos but also evoke a deep emotional connection with the viewer.

 
 

Call to Action: Own a Piece of This Legacy

Bring the story of the Northern White Rhinos into your home with a stunning fine art print. Each piece serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of our natural world. Visit our online store to browse the collection and make a purchase. Together, we can help ensure that the legacy of Najin and Fatu lives on.

 

May these prints stand as an everlasting testament to the ongoing struggle to safeguard the legacy of the last northern white rhinos, inspiring unwavering commitment to forge a brighter future for these extraordinary beings.

 

Author Peter Delaney

Read More

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 staring at photographer

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.

 
beautiful black and white print of cheetah brothers on a mound

"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.

 
serengeti boy lion standing up

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 buffalo fine art photograph in black and white

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.

 
stunning fine art african wildlife print of giraffes

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.

 
fine art african wildlife print of giraffe under a tree on african savannah

“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.

 
African wildlife fine art print of rhino mother and baby

Ol Pejeta|Black Rhinos| Fine Art Prints

ourney to Africa: Stunning Wall Art for Your Space

 
African Wildlife Fine Art Print of old white rhino bull

Ol Pejeta | White Rhino Bull | Acrylic Glass Prints

Captivating Wildlife Prints for Your Home

 
African Wildlife Fine Art Print in black and white of an old tusker bull elephant

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.

 
African Wildlife Fine Art Print of super tusker bull elephant named Craig

Super Tusker|Craig|Bull Elephant|Canvas Prints

Nature's Majesty Captured: Elevate Your Space with African Wildlife Art

 
 
Read More