Win a Set of 3 Beautiful African Fine Art Wildlife Prints You could stand a chance of winning this beautiful set of 3 African Fine Art Wildlife prints from MitchellKrog.com You could stand a chance of winning this stunning set of 3 African Fine Art Wildlife Prints from award winning South African Photographer Mitchell Krog. These 3 prints and a whole lot more are currently on display at the Photo and Film Expo 2010. The expo is a great outing for the family and a great way to support South African Photography. Wildbeest Hippo Encounter – Amazing Wildlife Story from the Maasai Mara, KenyaRead this incredible story of the amazing interactions between an injured Wildebeest and some Hippo’s during a river crossing in the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Nature sure has strange ways and this account of the humane nature of a hippopotamus sheds new light on these often unpredictable animals.
 An amazing story of the interactions between an injured Wildebeest and some Hippo's in the Maasai Mara. BBC Wildlife Veolia photographer 2009 stripped of coveted title
 Entries now open for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2010 The Veolia Environnement Wildlife Photographer of the Year has been stripped of his £10,000 title after judges said they suspected that the winning photograph featured a ‘trained’ animal. Spanish photographer José Luis Rodriguez had entered a photo of an ‘Iberian wolf’ jumping over a gate. But the competition’s strict rules ban model animals from featuring in submitted photos. The Natural History Museum, which helps organise the competition with BBC Wildlife Magazine, today confirmed that Rodriguez has been disqualified. As a result there will be no winner of the 2009 title. NEWS UPDATE: Photographer faces lifetime ban Rodriguez denies that he used a ‘model wolf’. A spokeswoman for the Natural History Museum said organisers were saddened by the outcome of their investigation: ‘The judging panel was reconvened and concluded that it was likely that the wolf featured in the image was an animal model that can be hired for photographic purposes and, as a result, that the image had been entered in breach of Rule 10 of the competition.’ She added: ‘The judging panel looked at a range of evidence and took specialist advice from panel judges who have extensive experience of photographing wildlife including wolves. They also considered the responses to specific questions put to the photographer, José Luis Rodriguez.’ It is understood that the picture, entitled ‘Storybook Wolf’, was captured using a specially set up camera trap. The animal would have triggered the shutter by crossing an infrared beam. Commenting on the controversy, wildlife photographer Andy Rouse told Amateur Photographer (AP): ‘The fall out from this scandal will continue for a long time and will ultimately affect the photographer, the competition and the reputation of wildlife photographers in general.’ In an exclusive article for the AP Rouse added: ‘To my knowledge no image has even been taken like this of the Iberian Wolf. It is an incredibly rare and shy animal, avoiding human contact at all costs and highly suspicious [of humans] due to years of persecution in its homeland. ‘To get this close, to get the lighting so perfect and the timing so exquisite was just incredible and I was slightly in awe of the photographer.’ José Luis Rodriguez, who lives in Spain, could not be reached for comment despite numerous emails and phone calls to his office. His son told us that the photographer was currently on assignment in Madeira where he has been photographing ‘marine birds’. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year is billed as the world’s most prestigious photography competition of its kind. The 2009 awards pulled in a record 43,135 entries from 94 countries. Organisers told AP that it would be unfair to choose a new winner as the competition judging process is ‘blind’. The museum spokeswoman said: ‘As the photographers are now known, as well as all the details about the images, it would be impossible to make an objective choice of an overall winner and it would be unfair to all the photographers who entered the competition.’ Veolia Environment BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2010Entries now open for the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2010 Brought to you by The Natural History Museum, BBC Wildlife Magazine and Veolia Environment, Now in its 46th year, the competition has become the international measure for great wildlife photography. It plays a crucial role in raising the profile of wildlife photography and stimulating an awareness of nature conservation, and the winning pictures are seen by millions of people around the world. We’ve made several exciting changes to the competition this year. For example, we are introducing a brand new special award, called Wildlife Photojournalist of the Year, for the best portfolio of striking pictures that tell a powerful story. A few other things have changed, too – we no longer allow captive animals, for example – so don’t forget to read the rules properly. Most of all, as part of our continuing efforts to encourage responsible wildlife photography, we stress that it is critically important to put the welfare of the animals and their habitats first. Read more at: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/temporary-exhibitions/wpy/competition/index.jsp (Botswana) Wildlife Photography vs Wildlife HuntingGaborone — An expert on Friday warned that the banning of hunting in preference to photographic safaris could have a devastating effect on the environment and the wildlife it is expected to preserve. Wildlife management expert, Dr Larry Patterson said on Friday that the photographic safari model has high financial rewards but studies have shown that it can cause serious environmental degradation. “Although most ecologists would claim to be educationally sophisticated and environmentally concerned, they rarely understand the ecological consequences of their visits and how their day-to-day activities have physical impacts on the environment,” he said at the Kalahari Conservation Society (KCS) annual fundraising dinner, attended by among others President Ian Khama, cabinet ministers, Phandu Skelemani, Dorcas Makgato-Malesu, Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi and Mokgweetsi Masisi.  Dr Larry Patterson, a wildlife management expert warned that the banning of hunting in preference to photographic safaris could have a devastating effect on the environment and the wildlife it is expected to preserve. Patterson has worked in Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia and conducted wildlife management consultancies for international organisations. He said a survey conducted in 2002 among staff and clients at two facilities in the Okavango Delta asked questions about perceived environmental experiences such as number of animal sightings, encounters with other tourists, number of boats, vehicles, aircraft and tranquility. “All were quite positive but…asked what they thought about doubling numbers in the next 10 years, they almost all said the experience and the environment would be degraded. Staff was more critical but understandably ‘unofficially’, being unwilling to bite the hand that feeds them,” he said. Patterson added that a recent study at a tourists resort of Xakanaxa criticised the government for lack of a proper management plan, after finding that 6,000 hectares of land had three up-market lodges and accommodation for 50 employees, two public campsites, two group campsites for mobile safaris, a commercial marina with 30 licensed boats, an airstrip, as well as 250km of roads with 300 vehicles on a busy day. He praised the hunting model because of its very low environmental impact. He said the model allows extensive areas of low scenic value to be used. He said the usual hunting quota off-take is 2-4 percent, which is insignificant in population dynamics. “Properly administered hunting is not detrimental to wildlife populations. This is absolutely certain. Evidence is widespread and well-documented,” he stressed. Patterson attributed the increasing number of wildlife population entirely to the hunting industry. The expert says in South Africa private ranches number 10,000, while Namibia has 1,000, compared to Botswana’s only 100.  In response to Botswana's intention to outlaw wildlife hunting, Wildlife management expert Dr Larry Patterson states that properly administered hunting is not detrimental to wildlife populations and this evidence is widespread and well-documented. The photographic safari model has high financial rewards but studies have shown that it can cause serious environmental degradation. He expressed hope that in future the majority of wildlife in Botswana will be on private land. He said recreational use of game ranches relieves congestion in parks and wildlife management areas. He said photographic and hunting models for wildlife management should be supported for their conservation value. He acknowledged that some hunters may be unbalanced fanatics and bad behaviour by such unscrupulous elements hurts the image of the hunting industry. “Human emotions dictate that a majority of people are unable to divorce hunting ethics from conservation. They see it as unfair that a hunter should use a high-powered rifle and modern technology to collect his animal and even worse that he should derive pleasure from it. The hunting industry needs to clean up its act and its image more so in this part of the world where it is saddled with the historical baggage of colonialism and the Boer image,” Patterson said. Sourced from: Environment News and Forums South Africa
Fujifilm Getaway Wildlife Awards 2009The winners and certificate credits of the Fujifilm Getaway Wildlife Awards 2009 have been announced. Getaway Photographer of the Year : Hans Rack. Getaway Wildlife Awards – Winners and Certificates: Animal – General: Animal Behaviour: Insects and Reptiles: Birds: Landscapes and Plants: Underwater: People in Nature: Abstract: Winning entries can be seen at: http://www.fujifilm.co.za/teltron/view/teltron/en/page11623 Nikon D3s – The Imaging Evolution ContinuesTHE IMAGING EVOLUTION CONTINUES: THE NIKON D3S ILLUMINATES NEW LEVELS OF POWER AND PERFORMANCE FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERSNikon Once Again Redefines Possibilities with D-SLR Photography with Six-Figure ISO Sensitivity for Stills and Video While Enhancing Overall Performance
 The New Nikon D3s - Ultimate Sport and Wildlife Camera MELVILLE, N.Y. (Oct. 14, 2009) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the FX-format D3S D-SLR, providing professional photographers with a powerful tool that redefines the boundaries of digital SLR versatility, while maintaining the strength of superior image quality and high speed performance inherited from the groundbreaking D3. The D3S enables not only new opportunities in low-light photography, but also provides photographers with added shutter speed and aperture freedom with a base ISO sensitivity range from ISO 200 to a remarkable 12,800. Additionally, expanded ISO equivalent settings up to a staggering 102,400 are available, enabling photographers to create images previously thought impossible. The Nikon D3S builds upon the success of the Nikon D3—the professional digital SLR that set new standards for D-SLR performance and utilizes a newly designed, Nikon original 12.1-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor that also integrates its amazing low-light ability to High Definition (HD) video, creating a uniquely capable multi-media tool to meet the needs of a changing imaging landscape. “When the Nikon D3 was released, it ushered in a new era of professional digital imaging. Today, the D3S will further reinforce Nikon’s leadership role in the photographic industry as a pioneer in performance-driven technologies that will again break once-rigid picture-taking barriers,” said Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc. “The ruggedly constructed D3S was engineered to address the real-world needs of professional photographers and provides them with a tool that, when combined with their skills, delivers stunning images in a broad range of shooting conditions and assignment requirements.” Creative Vision Beyond the Human Eye This industry-first, groundbreaking ISO sensitivity range will make the D3S the camera of choice for photographers who typically face extreme lighting challenges, such as indoor or nighttime sports, spot news, wedding receptions and ambitious nature photography. This broad ISO sensitivity also affords the ability to shoot at faster, action-stopping shutter speeds. D3S shooters will enjoy a major advantage in any situation where light is limited and the use of supplemental lighting is not an option. For the photojournalist, even the highest ISO setting delivers image quality to satisfy the needs of offset printing. Big Pixels Equal Greater ISO Capabilities The Nikon D3S adds the extra benefit of an Image Sensor Cleaning function to reduce instances of image degradation resulting from dust accumulation on the optical low pass filter (OLPF) in front of the image sensor. The OLPF oscillates at four specific frequencies to release particles that would disrupt image quality. Sensor Cleaning can be set by the user to cycle automatically when the camera is powered on, turned off, or on demand. Share the Vision with D-Movie Creativity Photographers and film makers alike will appreciate the full aperture control from a wide f/1.4 to f/16, as the FX-format sensor renders low-noise movie clips with outstanding clarity, aided by the large selection of renowned NIKKOR lenses to produce a dramatic depth of field. High Sensitivity Movie Mode allows the utilization of the entire ISO range to capture otherwise hidden details in challenging lighting conditions, more effectively than cameras with smaller sensors. Now, users can benefit from available natural light for applications such as telling a story in a journalistic style in the field or to create a gritty film noir masterpiece without CGI post production. While recording, users also have the ability to control exposure, and will enjoy the added benefits of improved contrast-detect type AF while in Tripod Live View mode. Performance and Features Defining Versatility The D3S also features two UDMA compatible CompactFlash™ card slots that can be used for consecutive recording (overflow), simultaneous recording (backup), separating recording of RAW and JPEG files or even copying pictures between the two cards. One or both can also be designated for data-heavy D-Movie recording. Images can be displayed directly from the camera to a High Definition monitor using the camera’s HDMI port and an optional cable. The D3S features Nikon’s exclusive Multi-CAM 3500FX focus module, with 51 AF points, 15 cross type sensors and 36 horizontal sensors that easily track and lock onto moving subjects, delivering the same fast and accurate AF performance that helped make the D3 immediately successful. Users can select any of the AF points, making it easy to consistently attain accurate focus, frame after frame. Additionally, three AF-area modes – Single point, Dynamic-area AF and Auto-area AF – are available to maximize the use of the 51 focus points by selecting the most suitable one to match subject conditions. AF is also available in one of two Live View modes, including a phase detection handheld mode and a tripod mode. While in Live View, the graphic indication of a virtual horizon is also available, making it easier than ever to confirm camera orientation. To alleviate another kind of noise, the D3S also features a Quiet Shutter Mode which substantially reduces the sound of the camera’s mirror-down cycle, which is perfect for shooting in sensitive environments, such as movie sets, meetings, ceremonies, or while photographing wildlife. Technologies Engineered for Professionals The D3S’ accelerated Scene Recognition System analyzes information from the 1,005-pixel RGB light sensor for use in auto exposure, auto white balance detection and autofocus calculations. The Scene Recognition System also assists autofocus by tracking subject position and automatically shifts the AF points used to match the subject’s movement within the frame. Nikon’s exclusive 3D Color Matrix Metering II assists in ensuring accurate exposures, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Instantly evaluating each scene before capture, input data from the system’s sensor is automatically referenced against an internal database of more than 30,000 images derived from actual photographs to calculate correct exposure values. Active D-Lighting (ADL), used in combination with 3D Matrix Metering II, helps to determine proper exposure, and creates realistic contrast while compensating for lost shadows and highlights. Photographers can also use ADL bracketing for up to five frames of ADL compensation. To further enhance each photographer’s expression of personal style, Nikon’s Picture Control System allows selection of Picture Control settings including Standard, Neutral, Vivid and Monochrome. Additionally, adjustment can be made to Picture Controls to image sharpening, contrast, brightness, saturation, hue and more. Photographers then have the flexibility to save up to nine personalized Picture Controls on camera and 99 additional Picture Controls externally. Ready for Work A bright and accurate viewfinder provides 100-percent coverage with 0.7x magnification. The body also houses Nikon’s acclaimed 921,000-dot, 3.0-inch super density LCD monitor which is viewable up to 170 degrees, and is safeguarded by a tempered glass cover. Thanks to incredibly efficient internal circuitry, the D3S can capture up to 4200* shots per single charge of the camera’s Lithium-ion battery. System Strength Withstands the Test of Time Price and Availability About Nikon Source: http://press.nikonusa.com/2009/10/the_imaging_evolution_continue.php Nikon unveils D3S high-speed pro DSLRComments Off  Nikon has unveiled the D3S professional DSLR. The new model is an upgrade to the popular D3 and comes with 720p HD video recording and a sensitivity range up to ISO 102,400 for improved low light performance. Images are captured on a new 36 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor and buffer size has been increased for 48 RAW frames in one burst. Futher improvements include a faster contrast detect AF in Live View and in-camera RAW-processing. Body shape, quality and operation are virtually identical to the D3.
The Mapogo Lions of Sabi SandsMitchell Krog on a recent photographic safari to the Sabi Sands Reserve, had the pleasure of meeting some of the infamous Mapogo Male Lions of the Sabi Sands. Based at the luxurious Elephants Plains Game Lodge and hosted by Wim van den Heever and Greg du Toit of OutdoorPhoto, our photographic safari was nothing short of spectacular and an experience that will be quite hard to top. Our group first encountered two of the male’s and three of their females catching a late afternoon nap and then shortly after dark we followed the two males to a water hole and captured some magic images of the one Mapogo male drinking. Mitchell’s image “The Ghost in the Darkness” below was born.
 Mr T of the Mapogo Male Lion Coalition At a Drinking Hole At Night, Appearing like a Ghost in the Darkness. (Copyright Mitchell Krog - All Rights Reserved) The following morning on our 6am game drive we arrived at a different water hole to find the two Mapogo male’s again with their three females but this time we were in real luck to find all their cubs around for their morning play time too. Arriving on this sighting just as the sun was rising gave us some magical “golden light” photographic opportunities.  Two of the Mapogo lion cubs of the Sabi Sands at a water hole in the golden light of the sunrise. (Copyright Mitchell Krog - All Rights Reserved) Shortly after returning from his trip, Mitchell did some more online research into the Mapogo Male Lion Coalition and came across some great information. First off this group of lions has their own Facebook Group Page and it has already attracted a bit of a fan base. Through finding this group Mitchell learned that the image of the Mapogo male below is one of the coalition called “Mr T”.  A male lion of the Mapogo coalition of the Sabi Sands Reserve who has come to be known as Mr T. (Copyright Mitchell Krog - All Rights Reserved) The Mapogo are a coalition of 6 male lion warriors. They are known in some areas of the reserve as The Eyrefield Males, the Sparta Males and in some areas as “The Cannibals”. It is said they were named Mapogo after a security company that utilizes rather harsh methods in dealing with offenders. There appears to be several different meanings for Mapogo. Ulusaba refers to it as meaning “Vigilantes“ and Savanna Lodge refers to the Mapogo name being a Zulu word meaning “Rogues”. Whatever the meaning, they are Bad News! The Mapogo males have been known to kill and eat other lions, even cubs that they have fathered. They seem to kill and eat just about anything in their path which may sound rather gruesome but nature has its ways and some things we will never understand. I can say one thing you certainly do not want to be on foot and cross paths with these guys. You can read more about the Mapogo Lions here. Another insert from this Photographic Safari coming soon. African Photography Blog – South Africa Photographic News, Articles, Tutorials is Digg proof thanks to caching by WP Super Cache |
