Category: Photography

Depth of Feeling

KI Kangaroos

Great photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field.

Peter Adams (d. 2016) was one of the world’s leading travel photographers.


To read more quotes, click here.


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My 2025 Favorite Photos

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s only natural to pause, pour a cup of something warm, and reflect on the whirlwind of the past year. Let’s dive in together, shall we? 

This photo showcases two cheetah brothers (Acinonyx jubatus) in a misty morning setting. The sleek felines, with their spotted coats faintly visible through the fog, stand side by side on a grassy plain, their slender bodies poised with alertness. The soft, diffused light of pre-dawn casts a gentle glow on their faces, highlighting their intense eyes and tear-marked cheeks. The background fades into a hazy blend of grey and green, with the mist creating an ethereal, mysterious atmosphere around the pair.

Two cheetah brothers (Acinonyx jubatus), photographed early in the morning, before the sun was up, and the morning mist still hung in the air, creating an eerie atmosphere.

The brothers were out patrolling their territory and stood still for a few minutes, checking their surroundings.

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🐈 Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, South Africa

The photo shows a Four-spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata), a dragonfly perched on a slender stem against a soft blue sky. Its wings are transparent with intricate vein patterns, and it has a striking body with a mix of orange and brown hues, accented by dark spots near the base of its wings, characteristic of the species.

Four-spotted Chaser, a dragonfly so called because of the four dark spots on its wings, two on each forewing.

I photographed it at a lake near our house, an excellent spot for finding butterflies and dragonflies this time of year. I find myself returning to it in every season, as there is always something to photograph: squirrels, foxes, jays, woodpeckers, birds of prey, small birds, insects, and flowers. 

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Four-spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Trolldalen, Lidingö, Sweden

A mating pair of Ruddy darters (Sympetrum sanguineum) in a serene, symmetrical composition above calm water. The male, with its vibrant red abdomen and translucent wings, clasps the female in the characteristic "wheel" position, their bodies aligned vertically against a soft blue sky. The reflection below mirrors them perfectly, creating an illusion of infinite extension and adding a poetic balance to the scene. Tiny dew-like sparkles glisten on their wings, caught by the gentle morning light, while the minimalistic background emphasizes their delicate forms and the intimate beauty of this natural moment.

A pair of mating ruddy darters that I photographed at the small lake near our house, the same spot where I had photographed the four-spotted chaser. This dragonfly is a common species in Sweden, especially in the southern part of the country.

This was the first time I photographed dragonflies in flight. Dragonflies in flight are difficult to capture due to their speed and unpredictable movement. But hey, the more difficult the tasks, the more rewarding the results! I’m very pleased with this photo, even though I had to take several hundred photos to get the one I wanted.

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Ruddy darters (Sympetrum sanguineum)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Trolldalen, Lidingö, Sweden

This photo shows a common blue butterfly male (Polyommatus icarus) perched delicately on an Echinacea purpurea var. Magnus flower in a garden. The butterfly, with its vibrant orange and black wings spread slightly, contrasts beautifully against the flower’s large, daisy-like pink-purple petals and prominent coppery-orange center. The morning light filters through the mist, casting a soft glow on the butterfly’s intricate wing patterns and the flower’s velvety texture. The background is a gentle blur of green foliage and other blooms, enhancing the serene and delicate beauty of this early autumn garden moment.

A male common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) perched on an Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ flower in our garden. This is what I love about our house: a wildlife garden filled with insects, butterflies, small and not-so-small animals (deer love my flowers, too!), and numerous birds! I need only to step out to find something to photograph!

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🦋 Male common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus)

📸 Canon R5 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Lidingö, Sweden

Australasian grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae)

An Australasian grebe calling for its young on a foggy morning on Kangaroo Island. It was 6:30 am, and the sun was not up yet. On my way to another location, I spotted this grebe family serenely floating on a small pond, shrouded in the waves of fog.

I stopped for a few minutes to take several photos, and this one became one of my absolute favorites from that trip.

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🦆 Australasian grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Lion (Panthera leo)


This is a new edit of a lion portrait I worked on a few months ago. While I was initially pleased with the first version, the idea of making a more dramatic edit kept coming to mind—I just couldn’t let it go! So, I decided to re-process the image, and I’m really happy with the final result.

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🦁 Lion (Panthera leo)

📸 Canon R5 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, South Africa

This photo depicts a young lioness in the midst of a hunt on a sunlit savanna. Her lean, muscular frame is poised low to the ground, with her tawny coat blending into the dry grass as she stalks prey. Her amber eyes are intensely focused, ears slightly back, and her mouth is open, revealing sharp teeth. The background features a blurred expanse of golden grass and scattered acacia trees under a clear blue sky, emphasizing her stealth and determination in this dynamic moment.

A young lioness on the prowl, stalking a giraffe under the midday sun. The hunt is on.

High-key edits aren’t usually my style, but this scene demanded it. Harsh light, a bright background, and the lioness in the shade called for a bold, high-key approach to capture the moment’s intensity.

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🦁 Lion (Panthera leo)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, South Africa

This photo features a Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) perched on a rocky outcrop in a rugged landscape. The baboon, with its greyish-brown fur and distinctive dog-like face, sits upright, its sharp eyes scanning the surroundings. Its pinkish face and expressive features are highlighted by the soft morning light, while a tuft of hair crowns its head. The background reveals a blurred expanse of dry grasslands and distant hills under a clear sky, capturing the baboon’s alert and commanding presence in the wild.

Chacma baboon, also known as a Cape baboon, photographed at the Marataba Mountain Lodge. The baboon’s position inspired a low-key processing approach, and I love the result..

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🐒 Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Marataba Game Reserve, South Africa

This photo features a lynx standing alert in a misty forest clearing. The lynx’s thick, tawny fur, speckled with dark spots, glows softly under the overcast morning light, its tufted ears perked. Its piercing amber eyes gaze intently ahead, framed by a subtle facial ruff.  The background is a gentle blur of pine trees and green foliage, the mist lending an ethereal quality that enhances the wild, majestic presence of this elusive feline in its natural habitat.

A young Lynx male from our trip to Northern Sweden. Isn’t he gorgeous?

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🐈 European Lynx (Lynx lynx)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Järvsö, Sweden

This photo features a cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) poised gracefully on a sunlit savanna. The cheetah’s sleek, tawny coat, adorned with its signature black tear marks and spots, shimmers under the morning light, highlighting the powerful muscles beneath its lithe frame. Its amber eyes are focused intently ahead, ears perked. The background is a warm blur of acacia trees and distant plains.

This photo of a male cheetah on patrol didn’t get much attention online, but I love it for the memories it brings back. The image itself is unremarkable, but that morning was unforgettable: golden light poured over the savanna, the sky was blue, and distant bird calls filled the air. We spent over an hour following three cheetah brothers on foot, which was no small task since cheetahs move so quickly!

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🐈 Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

 📍Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, South Africa

The image captures an autumnal scene featuring a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) perched among several pumpkins. One of the pumpkins has been carved into a traditional jack-o'-lantern with a triangular-eyed, smiling face. The ground and surrounding area are covered in fallen autumn leaves in various shades of yellow and orange. There are also leaves in the background that appear to be falling or floating, which contributes to the overall autumn atmosphere. The lighting gives the scene a warm, golden glow, enhancing the seasonal feel of the image.

This year’s Halloween card, I love it!

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🐿 Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)

📸 Canon R5 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Lidingö, Sweden

A striking portrait of a female Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx), captured in a snowy environment. The lynx's face is prominently featured, showcasing its thick, spotted fur in shades of brown and gray, with tufted ears and piercing yellow eyes that exude a wild intensity. Light snowflakes are falling around it, adding to the wintry atmosphere, while the soft, blurred white background enhances the focus on the lynx's detailed facial features and expression.

Another lynx photo, this time from our February trip to Northern Sweden.

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🐈 European Lynx (Lynx lynx)

📸 Canon R5M2 & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM

📍Järvsö, Sweden

A red squirrel with a silver party hat on and holding a champagne glass in its paw

I hope you enjoyed looking at the photos. Here’s to more, better images to come in 2026! Cheers!

I wish you a very, very Happy New Year! Gott Nytt År as we say in Swedish.


Click here to see all my favorite photos during the years.


Love my work? Support my journey by buying me a coffee or sharing it on your preferred social network. And don’t forget to swing by my online shop to check out my latest prints and gifts. Thank you 🙏 !

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My New Photo Project: A Desert of Waves, a Wilderness of Water

This abstract photo of sea waves, captured using the Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) technique, presents a fluid, impressionistic view of the ocean. The image features horizontal streaks of deep blue and soft grey tones, blending seamlessly to mimic the motion of waves. The blurred effect creates a silky, almost liquid texture, with lighter patches of sunlight reflections. The colors shift subtly across the frame, evoking the ebb and flow of the tide in a dreamy, artistic manner, capturing the essence of the sea's movement on that September late afternoon.

Today I want to offer you an insight into one of my recent photo projects for a change. “A Desert of Waves, A Wilderness of Water” is a series of 13 abstract seascapes I created using the Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) technique. Thunderous seas turn into liquid silk. 

A few weeks ago, I dreamed about huge waves crashing thunderously on a rugged beach. The full moon, high in the pitch-black sky, illuminated an alien landscape. 

No trees or shrubs, no dwellings, no boats. No people. No animals or birds (I knew this in my dream). An utterly deserted landscape, devoid of any life. Nothing but the huge rocks and the surf glittering like tiny diamonds in the moonshine. Nothing but the endless rumbling of the waves and the cold silvery moon. “A desert of waves, a wilderness of water” (Langston Hughes). 

The dream made such an impression on me that it haunted me for several days. I couldn’t get that desolate landscape out of my mind. So, I did what any artist would do: set to work. I wanted to capture that landscape in my mind in a series of photos, and I knew it wouldn’t be realistic photos from the beginning. The atmosphere called for something else.

As luck would have it, we live by the sea. So every day, I would go down to the beach and experiment with ICM (Intentional Camera Movement). The light, the color of the sea, the clouds, they all factor in. I knew how I wanted the photos to look like; I tested different settings and motions; I learned patience. And got the photos I wanted.

This abstract photo captures sea waves using the Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) technique, resulting in a dynamic, flowing composition. The image features swirling patterns of blue and grey tones, with soft, overlapping waves that create a sense of continuous motion. The blurred effect eliminates distinct edges, giving the photo an ethereal, almost fabric-like texture. The varying shades of blue deepen toward the edges, enhancing the illusion of waves rippling across the frame, evoking a hypnotic and serene oceanic movement.

When I move the camera during 0.5 to 2 second exposures, the energy of the sea becomes pure color, rhythm, and texture. Sharp horizons, foam crests, and clear wave shapes disappear. What’s left are flowing, painterly images that feel more like silk, smoke, or desert dunes than water.

The colors are subtle but bright. Deep indigos and cool steel-greys fill the shadows. Warm amber and burnt orange, reflected from sunlit rocks, shine through the lower layers like fire under ice. Blurred, overlapping strokes give a hypnotic sense of constant motion, like a tide that never ends. Edges fade, shapes blend, and the sea feels weightless and soft, almost like fabric.

I took these photos along the coast, a stone’s throw from our house, during the calm hours of dawn and dusk. Each image is a single in-camera exposure. There is no digital painting, no layering, and no added blur afterward. No AI (it’s sad you have to say this these days). What you see is exactly what the moving lens captured in that brief moment.

The title shows the main paradox: a desert made of waves, a wilderness made only of water, mixing dryness with wetness and emptiness with movement. This series invites you to move beyond literal images. Instead, it encourages you to feel the ocean’s rhythm, offering an abstract look at movement, light, and the beauty of letting go.

This abstract photo captures sea waves using the Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) technique, resulting in a mesmerizing, fluid composition. The image features smooth, concentric streaks of blue and grey tones, creating a sense of motion and depth, as if the waves are swirling in a circular pattern. The blurred effect eliminates sharp details, giving the photo a dreamlike, almost painterly quality. The darker shades at the edges gradually lighten toward the center, enhancing the illusion of waves rippling outward, evoking a serene yet dynamic oceanic scene.

Origin of the Phrase “A Desert of Waves, A Wilderness of Water”

The phrase originates from the poem “Long Trip” by the renowned African American poet Langston Hughes (1901–1967). It was first published in 1926 as part of his seminal collection “The Weary Blues”. The full poem reads:

The sea is a wilderness of waves,  

A desert of water.  

We dip and dive,  

Rise and roll,  

Hide and are hidden  

On the sea.  

Day, night,  

Night, day,  

The sea is a desert of waves,  

A wilderness of water.

This evocative imagery captures the vast, untamed expanse of the ocean, evoking themes of isolation, rhythm, and perpetual motion that are recurrent in Hughes’s work, particularly in pieces inspired by his experiences near waterfronts and as a young seaman. The poem reflects the Harlem Renaissance era’s exploration of African American identity and the natural world’s metaphors for human endurance.


As an artist, you’re always struggling to create the vision in your mind in whatever medium you’re working in, only to fail when you do – more often than not. But this was one of these dream projects where I didn’t fail. I love how the photos turned out. 

You can see the rest of the photos in my photo gallery and buy prints in my online shop if you like them too.


Related Posts


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A Moment Gone Forever

Shadows of a lace curtain on a wall

What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.

Karl Lagerfeld (1933 – 2019) was a German fashion designer, photographer, and creative director, best known as the creative power behind the modern revival of Chanel.


To read more quotes, click here.


Love my work? Support my journey by buying me a coffee or sharing it on your preferred social network. And don’t forget to swing by my online shop to check out my latest prints and gifts. Thank you 🙏 !

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Favorite Photos: October 2025

  1. Favorite Photos: January 2023
  2. Favorite Photos: February 2023
  3. Favorite Photos: March 2023
  4. Favorite Photos: April 2023
  5. Favorite Photos: May 2023
  6. Favorite Photos: June 2023
  7. Favorite Photos: July 2023
  8. Favorite Photos: August 2023
  9. Paris Is Always A Good Idea
  10. Favorite Photos: October 2023
  11. Favorite Photos: November 2023
  12. Favorite Photos: December 2023
  13. Favorite Photos: January 2024
  14. Favorite Photos: February 2024
  15. Favorite Photos: March 2024
  16. Favorite Photos: April 2024
  17. Favorite Photos: May 2024
  18. Favorite Photos: June 2024
  19. Favorite Photos: July 2024
  20. Favorite Photos: August 2024
  21. Favorite Photos: September 2024
  22. Favorite Photos: October 2024
  23. Favorite Photos: November 2024
  24. Favorite Photos: December 2024
  25. Favorite Photos: January 2025
  26. Favorite Photos: February 2025
  27. Favorite Photos: March 2025
  28. Favorite Photos: April 2025
  29. Favorite Photos: May 2025
  30. Favorite Photos: June 2025
  31. Favorite Photos: July 2025
  32. Favorite Photos: August 2025
  33. Favorite Photos: September 2025
  34. Favorite Photos: October 2025
  35. Favorite Photos: November 2025 Scheduled for 2nd December 2025
  36. Favorite Photos: December 2025 Scheduled for 7th January 2026
This macro photo showcases a close-up of grass blades adorned with glistening water drops in the morning sun. The delicate green blades, tipped with tiny, crystal-clear droplets, sparkle with a rainbow-like sheen as the early light refracts through them, highlighting their fine texture and subtle veins. Each drop magnifies the grass beneath, creating miniature worlds of refracted color, while the sunlight casts soft shadows that add depth. The background is a creamy blur of out-of-focus greenery, the gentle mist enhancing the ethereal glow and drawing attention to the intricate beauty of this dewy, sun-kissed scene.

I took this macro photo of grass blades covered in sparkling water drops in the morning sun at the small lake near our house. This is the same place where I had photographed the four-spotted chaser and the ruddy darters before.

In fact, I was waiting for the dragonflies to start flying since they weren’t out yet when I arrived at the lake, and amused myself by taking a few macro shots (always optimizing my time, he, he!).


This photo features a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) standing proudly on a tree stump in a forest clearing. The squirrel’s rich reddish-brown fur glows under the midday sunlight filtering through the pine canopy, its bushy tail held high as it balances on the yree stump. Its bright black eyes sparkle with curiosity, and its whiskers catch the light, adding a delicate detail to its poised stance. The background is a soft blur of green ferns and shadowy tree trunks, with a hint of mist lending a serene, magical ambiance to this charming woodland scene.

The little acrobat 😍 a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) balancing elegantely on a tree stump. As colder weather sets in and days grow shorter, squirrels are returning to our garden to seek nuts and seeds from the bird feeders.

The image captures an autumnal scene featuring a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) perched among several pumpkins. One of the pumpkins has been carved into a traditional jack-o'-lantern with a triangular-eyed, smiling face. The ground and surrounding area are covered in fallen autumn leaves in various shades of yellow and orange. There are also leaves in the background that appear to be falling or floating, which contributes to the overall autumn atmosphere. The lighting gives the scene a warm, golden glow, enhancing the seasonal feel of the image.
This photo features a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) curiously interacting with a striped orange pumpkin in a grassy clearing. The squirrel, with its vibrant reddish-brown fur and bushy tail held high, stands on its hind legs, extending a tiny paw toward the pumpkin as if inspecting or claiming it, its bright black eyes wide with intrigue. The pumpkin's textured, tiger-striped skin contrasts with the squirrel's fluffy coat, and the soft morning light casts a gentle glow, highlighting the dew on the grass. The background is a dreamy blur of green and orange foliage, adding a whimsical, autumnal charm to this enchanting woodland encounter.

Even the squirrels were preparing for Halloween 😉!

The image captures a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) clinging to the side of a tree. The squirrel, with its reddish-brown fur and bushy tail, is positioned on the right side of the tree trunk, climbing the tree with a mushroom in its mouth. The tree trunk is rugged and covered in lichen, adding texture to the composition. The background is a soft, blurred green, hinting at foliage and a forest setting. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the squirrel's fur and the details of the tree bark.

Another squirrel, photographed during our trip in Northern Sweden, on the same day I photographed the lynx. It had found a mushroom and was running up the tree with its prize.


📸 All photos were taken with Canon R5 Mark II & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM.


Related Posts


Love my work? Support my journey by buying me a coffee or sharing it on your preferred social network. And don’t forget to swing by my online shop to check out my latest prints and gifts. Thank you 🙏 !

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Favorite Photos: September 2025

  1. Favorite Photos: January 2023
  2. Favorite Photos: February 2023
  3. Favorite Photos: March 2023
  4. Favorite Photos: April 2023
  5. Favorite Photos: May 2023
  6. Favorite Photos: June 2023
  7. Favorite Photos: July 2023
  8. Favorite Photos: August 2023
  9. Paris Is Always A Good Idea
  10. Favorite Photos: October 2023
  11. Favorite Photos: November 2023
  12. Favorite Photos: December 2023
  13. Favorite Photos: January 2024
  14. Favorite Photos: February 2024
  15. Favorite Photos: March 2024
  16. Favorite Photos: April 2024
  17. Favorite Photos: May 2024
  18. Favorite Photos: June 2024
  19. Favorite Photos: July 2024
  20. Favorite Photos: August 2024
  21. Favorite Photos: September 2024
  22. Favorite Photos: October 2024
  23. Favorite Photos: November 2024
  24. Favorite Photos: December 2024
  25. Favorite Photos: January 2025
  26. Favorite Photos: February 2025
  27. Favorite Photos: March 2025
  28. Favorite Photos: April 2025
  29. Favorite Photos: May 2025
  30. Favorite Photos: June 2025
  31. Favorite Photos: July 2025
  32. Favorite Photos: August 2025
  33. Favorite Photos: September 2025
  34. Favorite Photos: October 2025
  35. Favorite Photos: November 2025 Scheduled for 2nd December 2025
  36. Favorite Photos: December 2025 Scheduled for 7th January 2026
The photo features a mating pair of Ruddy darters (Sympetrum sanguineum) in a serene, symmetrical composition above calm water. The male, with its vibrant red abdomen and translucent wings, clasps the female in the characteristic "wheel" position, their bodies aligned vertically against a soft blue sky. The reflection below mirrors them perfectly, creating an illusion of infinite extension and adding a poetic balance to the scene. Tiny dew-like sparkles glisten on their wings, caught by the gentle morning light, while the minimalistic background emphasizes their delicate forms and the intimate beauty of this natural moment.

A pair of mating ruddy darters (Sympetrum sanguineum) that I photographed at the small lake near our house, the same spot where I had photographed the four-spotted chaser last month.

These darters are small dragonflies native to Europe and parts of Asia, renowned for the males’ striking red abdomen that intensifies with age, making them a vivid sight in late summer. This dragonfly is a common species in Sweden, especially in the southern part of the country.

Trying to photograph dragonflies in flight for the first time was challenging but rewarding. The thrill came from capturing those few “perfect” moments, making the effort worthwhile. 

Dragonflies in flight are difficult to capture due to their speed and unpredictable movement. I discovered that holding down the shutter once in focus increases your chances of sharp, well-composed shots, even if it means taking hundreds of photos to get a few great ones.

Use the same settings as for small birds: animal tracking with a high shutter speed (at least 1/2.500 or 1/4.000 in good light). Animal tracking works incredibly well, especially on a clean background such as the sky or the water.

My gear and settings for this photo:

  • Canon R5 Mark II & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM @500mm
  • Aperture = f8 Shutter Speed = 1/4.000 ISO = Auto ISO (3.200 for this photo)
  • Drive = High Speed Continous

Steward Wood has a very good video about photographing flying dragonflies, I watched it just before I went out to the lake and it was very helpful, I recommend it if you want to try your hand at flying bugs.


This photo shows a common blue butterfly male (Polyommatus icarus) perched delicately on an Echinacea purpurea var. Magnus flower in a garden. The butterfly, with its vibrant orange and black wings spread slightly, contrasts beautifully against the flower’s large, daisy-like pink-purple petals and prominent coppery-orange center. The morning light filters through the mist, casting a soft glow on the butterfly’s intricate wing patterns and the flower’s velvety texture. The background is a gentle blur of green foliage and other blooms, enhancing the serene and delicate beauty of this early autumn garden moment.

A male common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) perched on an Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ flower in our garden. This is what I love about our house: a wildlife garden filled with insects, butterflies, small and not-so-small animals (deer love my flowers, too!), and numerous birds! I need only to step out to find something to photograph!

Common blue males typically have wings that are blue above, with a black-brown border and a white fringe, similar to the one in my photo. The females are usually brown above with a blue dusting and orange spots.

These butterflies drink nectar from plants like clovers and bird’s-foot trefoil. Their caterpillars eat leguminous plants and even team up with ants for protection. The adults only live about three weeks, and the males often chase each other around to defend their territory.

This photo features a ladybug perched delicately on an Echinacea purpurea var. Magnus flower. The ladybug’s vibrant red wings, dotted with black spots, stand out against the flower’s large, pink-purple petals and coppery-orange center, which are kissed by the afternoon light filtering through a gentle mist. The insect’s tiny legs grip the velvety petal, and its glossy shell reflects the soft glow, adding a touch of brilliance. The background is a soft blur of green foliage and other blooms, enhancing the serene and detailed beauty of this charming garden scene.

A ladybug perched delicately on an Echinacea purpurea var. Magnus flower – another photo from my garden.

Am I done with the safari photos? Not at all! But there’s too much of a good thing, you know. I needed a break from the hundreds of safari photos, to be honest. And the garden is so beautiful, I was aching to be out and look for butterflies, bumblebees, and ladybugs!

The photo features a lynx standing alert in a misty forest clearing. The lynx’s thick, tawny fur, speckled with dark spots, glows softly under the overcast morning light, its tufted ears perked. Its piercing amber eyes gaze intently ahead, framed by a subtle facial ruff, while its powerful legs are poised on the damp mossy ground. The background is a gentle blur of pine trees and green foliage, the mist lending an ethereal quality that enhances the wild, majestic presence of this elusive feline in its natural habitat.
A close-up photo of a lynx standing alert in a misty forest clearing. The lynx’s thick, tawny fur, speckled with dark spots, glows softly under the overcast morning light, its tufted ears perked. Its piercing amber eyes gaze intently ahead, framed by a subtle facial ruff.

A young European Lynx (Lynx lynx) male from our recent trip to Northern Sweden. I just finished culling those photos, so I haven’t processed many of them yet. However, I started working on this handsome fellow right away. I loved those eyes gazing right at you and wanted to begin working on the photo immediately.

Can you believe I shot this at ISO 10,000? It was late afternoon in the forest. The light was fading, and he was in the shade. The widest aperture on my Canon RF100-500mm lens is f/7.1, so to capture more light, I often have to use high ISOs. If the animal is not moving much, I’d lower the shutter speed a lot (think 1/100 or 1/200). However, this guy was moving too much, so my shutter speed was 1/640s. A noisy photo (grainy due to high ISO) is always preferable to a blurry one.

He stood like this for only a few seconds while I took my safety shots, then vanished before I could lower the shutter speed much more. In these cases, exposing to the right (ETTR) is key. ETTR refers to intentionally making an image brighter by adjusting exposure so that the histogram leans more toward the right side (the highlights), which helps retain more image data. Noise, or visual grain from high ISO, tends to be more visible in the darker areas of a photo, and it’s much easier to remove grain from a bright image than a dark one.

I used Lightroom Classic to reduce the noise in the image, and I think it looks pretty good. For the worst cases of noise, I usually use Topaz.

This photo features a cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) poised gracefully on a sunlit savanna. The cheetah’s sleek, tawny coat, adorned with its signature black tear marks and spots, shimmers under the morning light, highlighting the powerful muscles beneath its lithe frame. Its amber eyes are focused intently ahead, ears perked. The background is a warm blur of acacia trees and distant plains.

A male cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) patrolling its territory in the soft morning light, together with its two brothers (not in this photo). I was lucky enough to follow the three cheetah brothers on foot for over an hour in the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. That was no mean feat as it did require some cardio; cheetahs move fast, even when “only” walking.

Cheetah males form coalitions (usually of 2-3 littermate brothers) to establish and defend small territories (15-50 square miles/39-130 km²) within prey-rich areas. Living in coalitions rather than solitude enhances survival and mating success. In contrast, females range over much larger, nomadic territories, spanning up to 300 square miles (800 km²). Patrols by males involve daily circuits (6-11 km at 2.5-3.8 km/h) to monitor territory for intruders, prey, and potential mates.

During patrols, males mark boundaries at least once per hour using urine sprays, defecation, or cheek/chin rubbing, which conveys chemical signals about their identity and status; they revisit these sites frequently to reinforce claims. Vocalizations, such as high-pitched chirps, purrs, or growls, along with visual displays, help communicate and deter rivals. However, conflicts can escalate into fights over access to females or resources, sometimes resulting in injury or death. Coalitions rarely venture far from their core area except briefly to seek estrus females, prioritizing defense over expansion.

Young males leave their mother at 15-24 months and spend years as ‘floaters’ (roaming vast areas up to 1,600 km²) before gaining a territory, often as adults. This queuing strategy, combined with eventual coalition patrols, improves their chances against established groups. Patrols secure breeding rights and facilitate cooperative hunting, highlighting the cheetah’s distinctive, coalition-based social structure amid their decreasing wild population (~7,100).


📸 All photos were taken with Canon R5 Mark II & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM.


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Another Cover!

Red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) perched on the stem of a large orange pumpkin. The squirrel, with its bushy tail and alert expression, is surrounded by more pumpkins and scattered autumn leaves in shades of orange and brown. The background is a warm, blurred mix of fall colors, evoking a cozy autumn scene.

I’m honored that Canon Sweden chose my squirrel photo as their Facebook cover for October. Seeing my work featured on such a respected platform makes me incredibly proud and happy. This recognition reflects the passion I put into capturing nature’s special moments, and it truly means a lot to have it celebrated by a brand I admire.

Fun fact: Canon Romania also chose this photo as their Facebook cover in October 2024. 

Thank you, Canon, for this amazing chance to share my vision with a global audience!

Canon Sweden Facebook Cover, a red squirrel standing on a pumpkin

This is what the Canon Sweden Facebook page looks like now; I’m so proud!


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Favorite Photos: August 2025

  1. Favorite Photos: January 2023
  2. Favorite Photos: February 2023
  3. Favorite Photos: March 2023
  4. Favorite Photos: April 2023
  5. Favorite Photos: May 2023
  6. Favorite Photos: June 2023
  7. Favorite Photos: July 2023
  8. Favorite Photos: August 2023
  9. Paris Is Always A Good Idea
  10. Favorite Photos: October 2023
  11. Favorite Photos: November 2023
  12. Favorite Photos: December 2023
  13. Favorite Photos: January 2024
  14. Favorite Photos: February 2024
  15. Favorite Photos: March 2024
  16. Favorite Photos: April 2024
  17. Favorite Photos: May 2024
  18. Favorite Photos: June 2024
  19. Favorite Photos: July 2024
  20. Favorite Photos: August 2024
  21. Favorite Photos: September 2024
  22. Favorite Photos: October 2024
  23. Favorite Photos: November 2024
  24. Favorite Photos: December 2024
  25. Favorite Photos: January 2025
  26. Favorite Photos: February 2025
  27. Favorite Photos: March 2025
  28. Favorite Photos: April 2025
  29. Favorite Photos: May 2025
  30. Favorite Photos: June 2025
  31. Favorite Photos: July 2025
  32. Favorite Photos: August 2025
  33. Favorite Photos: September 2025
  34. Favorite Photos: October 2025
  35. Favorite Photos: November 2025 Scheduled for 2nd December 2025
  36. Favorite Photos: December 2025 Scheduled for 7th January 2026
This photo showcases a black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas) basking in the soft morning light on a savanna. The jackal’s sleek, tan coat with subtle grey and brown hues glows warmly as the first rays of sunlight filter through the scattered acacia trees. Its alert ears are perked, and its golden eyes catch the light, giving it a sharp, inquisitive expression. The background features a misty expanse of golden grass and distant hills, blurred to emphasize the jackal’s solitary figure against the tranquil, dew-kissed landscape.

Culling is finally complete, and I’ve begun processing the photos from my trip to South Africa in June! Here’s a striking image of a black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas) basking in the gentle morning light. Doesn’t it pose beautifully?

The black-backed jackal is native to South Africa, easily recognized by its distinctive black and silver saddle-like markings. This adaptable species thrives in various habitats, from grasslands to deserts, and is commonly found in Kruger National Park. Notably, these jackals are monogamous, forming strong pair bonds, with both parents actively involved in raising their pups, which are typically born in litters of 2 to 6.

This photo features a baby Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) standing close to its mother on a misty savanna. The calf’s light grey skin, still soft and slightly wrinkled, contrasts with the mother’s broader, more weathered hide, both glistening with morning dew under the gentle dawn light. The baby presses against its mother’s sturdy side, its small horn just beginning to emerge. The background is a soft blur of golden grass, the mist lending an ethereal glow that enhances the tender bond between the pair in this serene wilderness setting.

How adorable is this Southern white rhinoceros calf?

Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) calves are capable of standing and walking within just hours of their birth. They remain with their mothers for 2 to 3 years, during which they learn vital survival skills, including foraging for food and evading predators.

This photo features a zebra standing gracefully on a misty savanna. The zebra’s bold black-and-white stripes gleam with a soft sheen as the early morning light filters through the haze, illuminating its sleek form against a backdrop of golden grass and scattered acacia trees. Its head is slightly turned, revealing a curious eye and flared nostrils, while its mane stands upright, adding texture to the scene. The background is a gentle blur of muted greens and browns, with the mist lending an ethereal quality that enhances the zebra’s striking pattern and serene presence in the dawn stillness

Say “Cheese!” This zebra certainly doesn’t seem to need a dentist, does it?

Zebras (Equus quagga), native to South Africa and other regions of eastern and southern Africa, are famous for their unique black-and-white striped patterns, which are as distinctive as human fingerprints. These stripes are thought to help deter biting flies and may also confuse predators, such as lions, when zebras move in herds. When they run together, their stripes create a visual “motion dazzle” effect, making it more challenging for predators to single out an individual zebra.

Black and white close-up photo of a young lioness, gazing directly at the viewer.

I captured this image of a young lioness during my stay at Lepogo Lodges/Noka.

Lionesses (Panthera leo) are the primary hunters in a pride, working cooperatively in groups to take down prey like wildebeest and zebra. They are highly social, forming the core of the pride and raising cubs communally, with females often nursing each other’s young.

Lionesses are incredibly strong, capable of running at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph) in short bursts to chase prey.

This photo portrays a cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) in a misty, pre-sunrise setting. The cheetah stands alert on a grassy plain, its sleek, spotted coat faintly illuminated by the soft, dim light. The fog creates a dreamy haze, obscuring the background and lending a mysterious aura, with only vague outlines of distant trees visible. The cheetah’s piercing eyes and streamlined form are highlighted against the muted grey tones, capturing a moment of stillness and anticipation as dawn approaches.

One of the two cheetah brothers (Acinonyx jubatus) we followed while they were patrolling their territory on a misty morning. They would stop every now and then to check their surrounding and mark the territory.

Cheetahs patrol their territory by marking it with urine and claw scratches, signaling ownership to other cheetahs. Males often form coalitions to patrol larger territories, which can cover up to 1,500 square kilometers, while females patrol smaller, overlapping ranges to safeguard their cubs. They utilize elevated spots, such as termite mounds, to survey their territory, scanning for intruders or prey, especially during early morning or late afternoon patrols.

This patrolling behavior helps cheetahs avoid conflicts with larger predators, such as lions, as they adapt their routes to steer clear of overlapping territories. During these patrols, cheetahs can cover vast distances at speeds of up to 60-70 km/h (37-43 mph) in short bursts, relying on their keen eyesight to monitor their domain.


📸 All photos were taken with Canon R5 Mark II & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM.


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Celebrating World Photography Day

Red squirrel standing over a vintage camera

Happy World Photography Day! August 19th is World Photography Day, an annual celebration of the art, science, and history of photography. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate how photography shapes our lives, from the beauty of nature to the simple moments in our daily routines.

Ever wonder why August 19th? On August 19th, 1839, the French Academy of Sciences announced the Daguerreotype process, the first to obtain a permanent image with a camera. That moment marked the beginning of the journey to the photography we know and love today, inspiring every photo we’ve taken since.

For me, the best way to celebrate is by sharing snapshots of those unique moments that only you can capture. My favorite above is pure joy: a red squirrel posing behind a camera, which brings together two of my passions. This photo sums up why I love photography—the patience, the surprises, and the humor that nature offers.

Photography isn’t just a hobby for me. It’s a window into the worlds I love most: the wild beauty of safaris, the tiny details of flowers in my garden, the vastness of space (I’m that science fiction fan who dreams of photographing nebulae), and the rich cultures of places like Paris. It’s how I reflect on books through pictures or capture the quiet wisdom in a cat’s eyes. If you’re like me, looking through your old photos today might bring back that creative spark. Pick up your camera, edit a favorite, and share it with others.

What’s your go-to photo for today? To join the celebration, simply upload your favorite shot in the comments below or tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see what you’ve captured!


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Favorite Photos: July 2025

  1. Favorite Photos: January 2023
  2. Favorite Photos: February 2023
  3. Favorite Photos: March 2023
  4. Favorite Photos: April 2023
  5. Favorite Photos: May 2023
  6. Favorite Photos: June 2023
  7. Favorite Photos: July 2023
  8. Favorite Photos: August 2023
  9. Paris Is Always A Good Idea
  10. Favorite Photos: October 2023
  11. Favorite Photos: November 2023
  12. Favorite Photos: December 2023
  13. Favorite Photos: January 2024
  14. Favorite Photos: February 2024
  15. Favorite Photos: March 2024
  16. Favorite Photos: April 2024
  17. Favorite Photos: May 2024
  18. Favorite Photos: June 2024
  19. Favorite Photos: July 2024
  20. Favorite Photos: August 2024
  21. Favorite Photos: September 2024
  22. Favorite Photos: October 2024
  23. Favorite Photos: November 2024
  24. Favorite Photos: December 2024
  25. Favorite Photos: January 2025
  26. Favorite Photos: February 2025
  27. Favorite Photos: March 2025
  28. Favorite Photos: April 2025
  29. Favorite Photos: May 2025
  30. Favorite Photos: June 2025
  31. Favorite Photos: July 2025
  32. Favorite Photos: August 2025
  33. Favorite Photos: September 2025
  34. Favorite Photos: October 2025
  35. Favorite Photos: November 2025 Scheduled for 2nd December 2025
  36. Favorite Photos: December 2025 Scheduled for 7th January 2026
A low key photo of a Chacma baboon or Cape baboon (Papio ursinus)

I’m still culling through safari photos, but I’ve also started processing some of my favorites. This is why the culling is moving so slowly.

One of the first images I completed processing is of a Chacma baboon, also known as a Cape baboon (Papio ursinus), photographed at the Marataba Mountain Lodge. The baboon’s position inspired a low-key processing approach, and I love the result.

Fighting African elephants (Loxodonta africana)

Clash of the Giants: African bush elephants (Loxodonta africana).

African elephants engage in mock fights, especially young bulls, to hone skills rather than cause harm. Training through play helps young elephants develop strength, coordination, and social bonds, crucial for survival and hierarchy. These interactions involve trunk wrestling and head-pushing, teaching balance and power without serious injury.

Serious fights are rare, reserved for dominance disputes, with play serving as a safer learning ground.

Play fighting also reinforces group dynamics, preparing calves for adult roles, emphasizing its role over actual combat in elephant life.

Two cheetah brothers (Acinonyx jubatus)

Sentinels: two cheetah brothers (Acinonyx jubatus). I photographed them early in the morning, before the sun was up, and the morning mist still hung in the air, creating an eerie atmosphere.

The brothers were out patrolling their territory and stood still for a few minutes, checking their surroundings.

Cheetahs patrol their territories to mark and defend them, often using scent markers like urine. Males, especially brothers like these two, patrol together, covering up to 1,500 square kilometers to maintain their range. Patrols occur mostly at dawn or dusk, with cheetahs using elevated spots to scan for intruders or prey.

They avoid direct confrontation when possible, relying on vocalizations and scent to warn off rivals rather than fighting.

Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus)

A waterbuck female (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) I photographed while staying at Lepogo Lodges/Noka.

Waterbucks are often found near water sources, which they rely on for escape from predators. Waterbucks are strong swimmers and can dive underwater to evade threats.

Despite their name, they don’t drink water daily, getting much of their moisture from the grasses they eat.

Alow key photyo of a young lioness  (Panthera leo) on the prowl.

A young lioness (Panthera leo) on the prowl, stalking a giraffe under the midday sun. The hunt is on.

High-key edits aren’t usually my style, but this scene demanded it. Harsh light, a bright background, and the lioness in the shade called for a bold, high-key approach to capture the moment’s intensity.

Four-spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata

Four-spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata), a dragonfly so called because of the four dark spots on its wings, two on each forewing. It thrives in a variety of wetland habitats, including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and marshes. It prefers areas with abundant vegetation, such as reeds and grasses, which provide perching spots and shelter. This species is highly adaptable and can be found across Europe and parts of Asia, from lowland areas to elevations up to 1,000 meters.

I photographed it at a lake near our house, an excellent spot for finding butterflies and dragonflies this time of year. I find myself returning to it in every season, as there is always something to photograph: squirrels, foxes, jays, woodpeckers, birds of prey, small birds, insects, and flowers. 

Did you know that the Four-spotted Chaser is notably territorial, with males aggressively defending their chosen perching spots or breeding territories from rival males? They patrol their territory by flying short, rapid circuits and will engage in aerial chases or confrontations to ward off intruders. Males are particularly active during warm, sunny weather, often seen hovering or darting to catch prey.

Close-up of a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) holding a chestnut.

As always, a red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) with a chestnut 😁. Can you believe how utterly adorable this squirrel is 😍?


📸 All photos were taken with Canon R5 Mark II & Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM.


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