Camera: Nikon D5

Lens: 600mm

Aperture: 7.1

Shutter speed: 1/800

ISO: 3200

Description: This lioness brought each of her 3 young cubs out of the den to move them and seemed to proudly display each as she brought them out. The thrill and wonder of such a sighting was awesome.

Story from behind the lens: Our guides were aware of the presence of this lioness and her cubs and would stop by her den area for the chance of a sighting. As we watched activity near the area there was great anticipation of a sighting as these cubs had not been seen out of the den yet and were estimated to be only a few weeks old. From my seat I was able to see movement within the den and thought I could see one of the cubs, but not clearly. All of a sudden one of the cubs started to toddle out into the open, then the lioness picked it up and brought it out. She moved along a trail down into the drainage ditch where she put the cub and went back to the den. She brought all 3 out in clear sight, seeming to relish showing them off to us. Her presentation had all the style and grace of a professional model. We all went a bit silent as she honored us with an introduction to her new family.