Africa Photo Tours - Tanzania
Four Thirsty Lions
A revisit to an amazing time and place.
Here is the complete story of this scene.
January 2013, Ndutu, Tanzania.
We were finishing our game drive for the day very late in the afternoon when our driver Nas asked me if I would like to see 16 lions. Well, for sure I said YES Please!
Off we went, 2 safari trucks full of photographers. A 20-minute drive, and he found them with the help of other friends who share into. We arrived at the site, with 8 other safari trucks there and still some room for us.
They were all asleep, when the adult female woke up and wandered into some thick brush. Out she came with a brand-new cub, and introduced it to the Male. We were so lucky, but it was so dark! So, no decent images.
Next, they all woke up, stretching and yawning after a long pm snooze. That along was amazing. The lead female decided it was time for a drink. So all 16 got up and wandered across the road towards the pond.
The other 9 trucks followed them. Our truck did not. I instructed the driver to go left, away from the herd of lions and trucks, he yelled back “Ray!! They are going this way!” I had a gut feeling, and instantly reacted. If we went right, we would see their “butts” as they were drinking.
I dream of these types of encounters. After a lifetime of studying nature, I have a 6th sense, and most times, I can foresee what happens next. It worked out.
On the left side of the pond, these 4 lions lined up for a drink, away from all the dust, and zero wind for an excellent refection. We were the only photographers there, myself and 2 guests.
I dropped my ISO to 400, and held the button down, hoping for a sharp shot. Three of them showing their beautiful eyes, and water dripping from all four mouths!
So amazing, right place and time, and having some sort of idea on what to do. Luck follows me around on these tours, so my job of providing excellent photo opportunities for my guests usually works out well.
I coach during all game drives, settings, and composition whenever I can. My first priority is always my guests.
Appreciate you reading this far, best wishes, thanks for looking.
Love Tanzania
