Camera: Nikon D5

Lens: nikon 200-500mm f5.6

Aperture: f/8

Shutter speed: 1/640

ISO: 400

Description: Black and white rendering of a leopard looking out from a tree in Maasai Mara during the early morning

Story from behind the lens: I have been taking pictures in Maasi Mara for a number of years now. I remember at the beginning how eager I was just taking a picture without really thinking of it. After several years of doing wildlife volunteering and spending long days in the bush, I now recognize the importance of being patient by sitting and observing the animals in their environment before taking a picture. I have come to appreciate the significance of animal behavior and how it can lead to a more powerful picture , showcasing the animal in more interesting ways . I also enjoy playing with the light and shadows of the bush and trees and this leopard pose provided a unique opportunity. It can be tiring and often frustrating to capture the light just right while composing the animal as well and that is the magic of taking wildlife pictures. It does not happen every day.