This individual gallery showcases the best images from the YOUTH (13-18) category of the Nature’s Best Photography Africa competition 2015.
All images copyright protected.
WINNER: Carmine Fight by Juan van den Heever, South Africa Photograph taken: Kalizo Lodge, Katima Mulilo, Botswana “Every year in August, thousands of southern carmine bee-eaters converge on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River to dig nests, breed and raise the next generation. As with most courtship displays, males try to impress females by showing them that they are the strongest and fittest to ensure the survival of the species. This provokes competitiveness in other males, who swoop down to prove their qualifications for procreation. This usually leads to squabbles, which include individuals flying up and jousting with one another, like delicate fencers with feathered foils. I was lucky enough to capture these two just before they jabbed each other once again.” Technical details: Nikon D4 / 400mm / ISO 1000 / f7.1 / 1/4000s / E -0.3
FIRST RUNNER-UP: Cape fur seal, Pelican Point, Walvis Bay, Namibia “Seals are known to be playful. One evening they were jumping and surfing, trying to launch themselves as high into the air as possible. The brief window of golden light gave us an amazing opportunity for some backlit photography.” Technical info: Nikon D700 / 420mm / ISO 1600 / f11 / 1/120 / E -0.3
SECOND RUNNER-UP: Elephant calf within the protection of its mother, Masai Mara, Kenya “While searching for lions we came across a large herd of elephants. Among them was this delightful little calf that created the perfect opportunity for a photograph amid the golden grass.” Technical info: Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm / ISO 1000 / f8 / 1/640 / E +0.7
