vaidehi c

Camera: Nikon D850

Lens: Nikon 70-200 f/2.8E

Aperture: f/3.5

Shutter speed: 1/60

ISO: 16000

Description: Leopard at dusk on alert as it was being followed by two hyenas.

Story from behind the lens: How is an image like this possible in near dark conditions? First, lucky to be in the right place (Naboisho Conservancy) at the right time (the elusive predator roaming around). Second, the tireless efforts of an excellent guide (Daniel, Asilia Naboisho). Third, the excellence of my Nikon gear that can take such images at high ISO with great dynamic range at the right settings. Fourth, post production software like Lightroom. The leopard was on the move as the predator was being followed by two hyenas. I realised, at such a low shutter speed, I had a very small window to grab the shot when the animal was momentarily still and the light at dusk in the distant horizon did not fade away. Besides the guide in the nearby vehicle was understandably very constrained and sparing in using the light with the red filter on the animal.