Power of Elephant: How to Safeguard Elephant Baby

Witnessing elephants is a truly enchanting and extraordinary experience. It has the power to touch your soul and evoke deep emotions.

Similar to humans, elephants form lifelong bonds and display a range of emotions from love to outrage. The familial instincts kick in when danger looms – the family circles around, protecting the vulnerable young at the center. Trumpeted calls and folded ears demonstrate their united front in safeguarding the most precious members. In one such instance, a bull elephant sought to separate a baby from its mother.

The distressed cry of the baby elephant prompted an immediate response from the entire herd. They encircled the infant, extending their trunks to reassure and comfort the little one, creating an enduring bond of love.

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A family of elephants strolls in a defensive arrangement.

My passion for black and white photography blossomed when I stumbled upon Don McCullin’s ‘A Retrospective’ during a lunch break in 1980s/90s London, where I worked as a currency broker. Wildlife artists Kim Donaldson and David Shepherd also played a significant role in influencing my color photography and style.

One poignant moment stands out as I captured a family of elephants shielding their baby. My wife, Nicolinah, and our three-year-old son, Neo, accompanied me in the car during this encounter. The distressing sight of the bull kicking the baby elephant stirred our emotions. Despite their plea for me to leave the scene, the herd rallied around the child, allowing me to capture the essence of “Bonds of Love,” leaving us with a sense of solace.

A male elephant attempts to create distance between a mother and her calf.

I have a deep love for black and white photography across all genres, but my heart lies in wildlife and landscape. Creating art serves as a therapeutic escape, reconnecting me with nature and nourishing my soul. I believe my fine art prints resonate positively with people, bringing them moments of joy, happiness, or nostalgic memories.

Being a wildlife photographer is a holistic joy for me – from the exhilarating experience of being on safari and capturing images to the meticulous editing process in the digital darkroom. The interaction with clients during art purchases completes the fulfilling journey. It has always been my life’s calling, driven by a lifelong passion for Africa since my early years. Moving to South Africa two decades ago solidified my destiny as a wildlife photographer – more of a vocation and a calling than just a career.

A male elephant forcefully strikes a recently born calf.

Mothers and aunts provide comfort and encouragement to the youth.

Elephant’s Gentle Moment

Mother lovingly gazes at her newborn.

Younger sibling expresses affection towards the newborn.

The elephant sibling observes the newborn.

Newborn seeks refuge between their mother and aunt.

Mother displays affection towards the young ones.