Page 5 - Capture magazine Aug-Sep-Oct 21

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WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT
This is such a powerful capture. Strength, might, and awe are all captured with the direct confrontational lower camera angle. The gaze of the animal is totally compelling. Having said that, what gives this image that extra special ‘wow’ factor is the movement of the beast’s front foot kicking up the dust so that the viewer really feels the power and greatness of this majestic animal. There is a sense of danger as well which elevates the images from a pure static capture. The black and white handling also gives a strong ‘punchy’ edge to an already excellent capture.
– Lesley Downie
Elephants are such majestic animals and the photographer has captured this perfectly. I kept going back to revisit this image. It draws one into the frame, which is both frightening and beautiful. It’s compelling and stays with you. Accordingly, the image is one of my favourites in this section.
– John Crawford
RUNNER-UP
GRAHAM MORGAN
Working as the local doctor in Sussex Inlet on the South Coast of NSW since 1984, for as long as he can remember, Graham Morgan has been attracted to rugged, remote landscapes and wild animals. Most of his images have been captured in sub-Saharan Africa, Antarctica, and the Arctic – the main reason being the repose that these locations effuse. Photography has given Morgan insight into the natural treasures that surround us and he’d like to think that his images encourage awareness of our environment and the threats that it faces. He first picked up a camera in 2004, having never taken a photograph before that. His approach to photography these days sees him getting close to his subjects, always looking for the best light, texture, and a different angle. Interesting behaviour, environmental context, and animal-photographer interaction are all crucial to the way he likes to work.
www.instagram.com/graham_morgan_pics
Zambezi Welcome. The swaying head and tusks of a seven-ton Bull Elephant is a lot more impressive when you are sitting/lying on the ground 3m away. Mana Pools National Park (northern Zimbabwe) is ideal for getting close as you can walk around freely. Anticipation is everything in wildlife photography, and understanding the behaviour of your subject is paramount. You need to be ready before it happens – personal comfort has nothing to do it.
[capture] aug_oct.20
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