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Close to the Lep


Close to the Lep
Photo Information
Copyright: Dan Bachmann (danbachmann) Gold Star Critiquer/Silver Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 93 W: 15 N: 65] (555)
Genre: Places
Medium: Color
Date Taken: 2004-07-16
Categories: Nature, HPP [Heavily Post-Processed], Portrait
Camera: Pentax *istD, Pentax A 28mm
Exposure: f/2.8, 1/350 seconds
More Photo Info: [view]
Photo Version: Original Version
Date Submitted: 2005-03-01 20:29
Viewed: 2022
Points: 4
[Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note
What makes this image unique is that it has been shot at close range with a wideish lens - not something a leopard is normally taken with. While the wide angle may not be flattering, it does make for different wildlife images stand out.

This picture was taken at the Santago Rare Leopard Project which acts as a breeding center for these animals, some only a few hundred left in the world. When Peter James didn't have enough money to pay the veterinary bill, he came up with an idea: give close-up access to photographers for a reasonable fee. It's been a great sucess - the doctor's bill have been paid and now he's created back drops for the cages and now other breeders/conservationists are looking to do the same in Europe.

When asked if the leopards would be released into the wild, Peter James, the keeper, told me that "perhaps their grandchildren. Unfortunately, many of the countries where these cats live, they are still hunted with little or no government protection."

This day at Santago is an example of photography helping with wild life preservation for future generations. If you would like to see another picture of this leopard and more information about the project, take a look at this on TrekNature.

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Critiques [Translate]

  • Great 
  • Fisher Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 1254 W: 351 N: 944] (5728)
  • [2005-03-01 22:35]

IMO, not the lens to use either. It distorts the subject, in this case, the face. It's good for buildings etc. but not people and creatures unless you are going for the humour side of things.
The image is well composed and well captured that's for sure, sorry friend, 28mm just doesn't work for this one.
Well done on your effort and work.

Mike

  • Great 
  • Dingo Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 2744 W: 369 N: 2624] (11948)
  • [2005-03-02 16:18]

I agree with Mike, Dan... 28 mm creates too big a distortion on the head. I do like the sharpness and the DoF, though. Beautiful animals, I think projects like this should be supported. Unfortunately, no such thing in Belgium, as far as I know. TFS.

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