Page 58 - Discover Botswana 24th Edition 2024

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PHOTO ESSAY
The pans are dry for much of the year but during
good rains a considerable amount of water may
collect, attracting a profusion of waterbirds,
including flamingos, that breed on the pans
when the water is high enough to protect their
nests from predators. When photographed
from above, the huge flocks take on a mystical,
abstract nature.
In places the rainwater may only be present for
a day or two before it seeps into the ground, and
if you are lucky, you might find the migratory
herds of zebra. On a still day you may also be
fortunate enough to witness ethereal reflections
in the sheets of shallow water. Myriad game
trails lead to the outer edges of the pans where
fresh grass attracts yet more herbivores.
Further North in Botswana the seasonal floods
and permanent waterways attract a huge range
of species, reliant on water for their survival.
Silt and surface water fragments create braided
waterways as hippo move between land and
water, making beautiful patterns when glimpsed
from above.
The use of drones and helicopters in wildlife
photography not only yields stunning visuals
but can also contribute to the conservation and
understanding of this fragile ecosystem. With
knowledge, the right equipment, and a profound
respect for nature, you can capture moments in
the wild that will inspire, educate, and leave a
long-lasting impact.
CHARLIE SUMMERS
Charlie is an avid traveller, photographer and
filmmaker whose images and stories celebrate
people, places, culture and wildlife.
Combining a background in design and
photography together with a respect and
understanding of African landscapes, Charlie
instils in his work these twin passions to create
stories and evoke feeling.
Charlie has been regularly returning to Botswana
for nearly 20 years before making it home in 2019.
His understanding of filmmaking, photography
and wildlife has been crafted in Botswana’s
wilderness and enhanced by commercial work
in London, Cape Town and Botswana.
Previous pages: The Makgadikgadi Zebra
Migration is one of Southern Africa’s most
surprising phenomena. Each year during
the rainy season, zebras trek between the
Okavango Delta and the Makgadikgadi Salt
Pans in search of fresh grazing.
Top right: During the dry season, baobabs
drop their leaves allowing a glimpse of their
incredible fractal patterns as branches reach
out like veins.
Right: The Setswana name for Elephant is
Tlou. They are highly intelligent animals with
complex family structures. Below, elephant
mothers each accompanied by their offspring,
move purposefully through the Okavango
delta grasslands.