Camera: Nikon Z9

Lens: Nikon 400mm f/2.8

Aperture: f/4.5

Shutter speed: 1/400

ISO: 90

Description: Half-tail and a Marsh Pride lioness

Story from behind the lens: The indomitable male lion known as Half-tail and a lioness from the Marsh Pride separated themselves from the rest of the pride. I waited patiently for the evening light of the Mara North to turn to its famously wonderful golden hues, hoping to capture an intimate moment between two these magnificent big cats.

Lions are revered as being strong, bold and somewhat fearless. Yet, they are the only truly sociable big cat and my aim was to show the bond and connection they share with each other, without trying to overly anthropomorphise.