Camera: Nikon Z9

Lens: Nikon 500mm f/5.6 PF

Aperture: 1/5.6

Shutter speed: 1/2500

ISO: 900

Description: Lead member of the three cheetah coalition (Tatu Bora), in mid air, chasing a topi in the vast open plains of the Mara

Story from behind the lens: After starting our drive early morning in Masai Mara Reserve, we searched, found and followed this amazing three cheetah coalition for the entire morning. We were lucky to witness them chase and kill a topi. I was ready with my settings and remained focused when the action started. In less than a minute it was over with the lead cheetah pulling down the topi. The impalas ran away to a safe distance becoming helpless bystanders. I wanted to freeze the action. This picture shows the cheetah in mid air, aided by its amazing speed, with an impala watching from a distance blending into the bokeh. The late morning light gives the pastel painting effect. We were lucky.