Tucked away in the Cederberg Mountains, this private wilderness reserve and wellness spans 7,500 hectares, once farmland, now a testament to the patience of nature’s restoration. Four farms were merged to create what it is today, and while remnants of its past life still linger – patches of farmland, the ongoing battle against invasive plant species like boar Jackson – the transformation is evident. Indigenous species like the Cape Mountain zebra have returned, the land flourishes with over 300 plant species, and the happiness of the animals tells its own story. Something is humbling about seeing what happens when nature is finally allowed to catch its breath.

That sense of time slowing down began the moment we arrived. In our suite, a welcome letter rested on the desk, a thoughtful touch that immediately made us feel at home, alongside some delicious homemade treats and our very own Bushman’s Kloof caps. The room itself was a step back in time, blending old-world charm with modern comfort. Rich wooden furniture, delicate antique touches, and earthy tones reflected the surrounding landscape. The four-poster bed—raised high with steps leading up to it—was impossibly inviting, the kind of place you melt into after a long day exploring. Even before arriving, our pillow preferences had been noted, a small but telling detail in Bushman’s Kloof’s quiet luxury.

With only 17 rooms at the main lodge and the exclusive-use Koro Lodge for families with younger children, Bushman’s Kloof offers a more intimate kind of safari. Here, there are no roaring predators, no hurried game drives in pursuit of a sighting. Instead, mornings unfold gently, with the choice of a guided drive or a self-led walk through the wilderness. Walking alone in a game reserve isn’t something many places allow, but here, you’re part of the landscape – wandering past grazing antelope, watching zebra flick their tails, feeling the hush of the wild settling around you. It’s not about chasing the highs, but about exhaling into the rhythm of the land.

Evenings belong to the wilderness. Londi, our guide for the trip and a fixture at Bushman’s Kloof for over 16 years led us on drives where golden hour bathed the landscape in a soft glow. Baby antelope played in the long fynbos, their energy light and carefree, as if carried by the breeze. As the sun dipped lower, we were pulled up by a dam, glasses in hand, watching the sky burn with colour before fading into deep blue. On night drives, we craned our necks to take in the spectacle above – stars splattered across the sky, the Milky Way a luminous river stretching endlessly overhead. Every inhale carried the scent of the wild, every exhale a quiet surrender to the moment.

But the true history of Bushman’s Kloof is written in stone. The Cederberg Mountains is home to over 7,000 recorded rock art sites, with 120-130 found on this reserve alone. Some of these paintings date back 10,000 years, telling the stories of the San and Khoi people. Fine-line depictions of eland and trance dances, bold finger-painted herding scenes – art that isn’t just history, but a living record of belief, survival, and connection to the land. Unlike other historical sites, these can’t be protected under glass; the sandstone needs to breathe, left undisturbed. “Look, but don’t touch,” Londi reminded us. We didn’t need to. The energy in these places was tangible. The past lingers here like a breath held just beneath the surface.

On the walk to one of the sites, Londi stopped to show us how the San people used the land for more than just paint. A small plant, its leaves delicate in his fingers, became a demonstration of the first paintbrush – chewed at the end to create bristles. Others were remedies: fever medicine, headache relief, and antidotes for scorpion stings. Then, the first soap – an unassuming leaf that, when rubbed between my hands, transformed into a frothy lather, releasing a fresh scent as it cleaned my palms. This knowledge, passed down through generations, still lingers in the air here, waiting to be shared.

Afternoons stretched in lazy luxury. Some found solace in the cool retreat of the spa, where natural fynbos and rooibos-infused products soothed sun-warmed skin. After my massage, I drifted to one of the reserve’s pools, lying back as lilies floated on the water’s surface, the heat of the day coaxing me into a soft, dreamlike haze. Others sought adventure – archery, fly fishing, mountain biking, each activity moving at its own unhurried pace.

One afternoon, I chose the water. Canoes waited at the edge of the dam, their bright colours striking against the glassy surface. Paddling out, we moved through rippling reflections of the ochre cliffs, the only sound the occasional splash of an oar. The wind fought us as we pressed on, but determination (and a desire for discovery) kept us going. Then, tucked away behind a bend, we found it: a hidden cove, where a small sandbank rose like an island, untouched and serene. We pulled up, stretching out on the warm sand, the golden afternoon light wrapping around us. It felt like a secret place, a moment stolen from time. Even the baboons, ever the opportunists, seemed to approve – ambling along the shoreline, playing in the trees, always watching.

Dining at Bushman’s Kloof is an experience in itself; rooted in sustainability, and crafted with care. At the Makana, where dinner is served beneath a thatched roof and candlelit glow, much of what appears on the plate comes straight from the retreat’s gardens. Each morning, the chef walks through rows of herbs and vegetables, bowl in hand, selecting what’s needed for the day. Fish is sourced through the Abalobi app, ensuring direct support for small-scale South African fishers. Meat comes from local farmers, and anything left over – whether composted into the gardens or shared with subsistence farmers – never goes to waste.

But Bushman’s Kloof isn’t just about preserving the past; it’s about safeguarding the future. Conservation runs through every aspect of the reserve. The Cape Leopard Trust works to protect the elusive big cats roaming these mountains. The Sand Fish Project, an initiative started in 2014, has been working to restore a migratory fish species endemic to this region—once down to just eight making the journey, now steadily recovering. Even the endangered Clanwilliam cedar trees are nurtured here, grown from saplings before being reintroduced to the mountains they once thrived in, in collaboration with the Botanical Society and Western Cape Nature Conservation. Most importantly, education is prioritised through collaborations with local schools to show children the importance of ecosystems, flora and fauna, ancient rock art, and protecting these important lands.

Sustainability is embedded in the details: filtered borehole water eliminates the need for plastic bottles, greywater is recycled to irrigate the gardens, and glass replaces plastic wherever possible—even seemingly plastic items, like shower caps, are made from biodegradable cornstarch. The staff, over 100 of them, live here with their families in a close-knit village, their presence deeply intertwined with the land they care for. Every team member is given volunteer days each year to support causes they care about, reinforcing the idea that sustainability isn’t just about the land – it’s about people, too.

On our final morning, I took one last walk, following a path laid out by the reserve. Alone, with only the whisper of the wind and the occasional rustle of an animal in the brush, I breathed deeply, taking in the scent of sun-warmed fynbos. This is a place that doesn’t demand attention but quietly works its way into your soul. A place where nature is not just something to witness but something to be part of.

A place that, if you let it, will breathe life back into you.

W: Bushmans Kloof
T +27 87 743 2399
E: Reservations

Written by Emma Blunt for Luxury Safari Magazine

The post Where the Wild Breathes: Emma Blunt Slows Down in the Soul of Bushman’s Kloof appeared first on Luxury Safari Magazine.

What motivated you both to create Ahnasa Safaris and how did your journey in luxury travel begin?

Ahnasa was born from a love story—one written by the land itself. Our journey wasn’t shaped by business plans or market trends but by an unyielding passion for Africa—its breathtaking landscapes, its deep-rooted cultures, and the undeniable magic that binds them together.

For us, travel is more than an escape; it’s a bridge to connection, discovery, and purpose. Growing up and living in Kenya, we’ve been shaped by Africa’s untamed beauty and the profound relationship between people and nature. It is this deep connection that we cherish and wish to share with you, our guests. We invite our guests to experience the wonder, the reverence, and the transformation that only Africa can offer.

Africa is more than a destination; it’s a journey into something greater. It has given us moments of awe and purpose, and with that, a responsibility—to protect, preserve, and share its stories. Ahnasa was created not just to curate safaris, but to invite you into Africa’s soul.

Our mission is to craft journeys that are as enriching as they are exhilarating—experiences that honour the wilderness, celebrate its people, and leave every guest forever changed. Through transformative travel, we strive to make a meaningful impact, ensuring that Africa’s wild places continue to inspire for generations to come.

How does your mother-daughter dynamic influence the way you run the business and create experiences?

Our dynamic is rooted in shared values, deep trust, and a complementary vision. Pana brings decades of expertise in luxury hospitality and an intimate knowledge of Africa’s most extraordinary destinations, while Phera infuses Ahnasa with fresh perspectives, innovation, and a keen sense of what modern travellers seek. Together, we love to create experiences that are both timeless and contemporary—elegant, adventurous and always deeply immersive. We approach every journey as if we were planning it for family, ensuring every detail is crafted with warmth, authenticity, and a personal touch.

What does the name Ahnasa represent, and how does it reflect in your safari experiences?

Ahnasa is more than just a name; it embodies what we strive to create—moments that take your breath away. A safari with Ahnasa is about reconnecting with nature, breathing in the vastness of Africa’s untouched landscapes, and experiencing a sense of profound stillness and wonder. It’s about slowing down, immersing in the rhythm of the wild, and rediscovering a deep, almost spiritual connection with the earth. Our guests often tell us they leave with a renewed sense of clarity and appreciation for the natural world—that is Ahnasa.

What sets the Ahnasa safari experience apart from other safari offerings?

Ahnasa is more than a safari company—it is a deeply personal endeavour, co-founded by a mother and daughter duo whose lives have been shaped by Africa’s untamed beauty. Now a proudly women-led travel design house, we craft journeys that go beyond luxury to create something truly rare: an experience that is both profoundly personal and deeply connected to the land.

Unlike conventional safaris, every Ahnasa journey is a reflection of our unwavering passion for Africa. Living on this continent allows us to intimately understand its rhythms, its breathtaking contrasts, and the extraordinary people who call it home. This first-hand knowledge translates into safaris that are as immersive as they are luxurious—meticulously designed to honour both the traveller’s dreams and the soul of Africa itself.

For us, curating a safari isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about transformation. From private encounters with wildlife in remote, untouched landscapes to moments of quiet reflection in the heart of the wilderness, we ensure that every journey is a story waiting to be told. Our safaris are immersive, responsible, and deeply intentional—crafted with the belief that travel should leave a lasting impact, not just on the traveller, but on the places and people that make each experience extraordinary.
With Ahnasa, you are not just a guest. You are part of a journey that lingers long after the last sunset, woven into the fabric of Africa’s timeless magic.

How do you ensure exclusivity and personalisation in the experiences you arrange for your clients?

It all begins with getting to know you—our Guest. Understanding your travel dreams, your vision for your travels in Africa, and the moments you long to experience. With our deep expertise, first-hand knowledge, and passion for this extraordinary continent, we craft journeys that bring those dreams to life.

Our carefully curated portfolio of exceptional destinations, stunning properties, immersive experiences, and trusted network of experts allows us to design seamless, one-of-a-kind safaris that are as inspiring as they are unforgettable. Every journey is thoughtfully tailored, ensuring that your time in Africa is nothing short of extraordinary.

Conservation and sustainability are a major point now in luxury travel, how does Ahnasa ensure responsible tourism?

At Ahnasa, sustainability is at the heart of every journey we design. We believe that true luxury lies in the ability to explore Africa’s breathtaking landscapes while actively protecting them for future generations.

We thoughtfully partner with companies that share our deep commitment to conservation, community empowerment, and low-impact tourism. From solar-powered retreats and sustainable architecture to responsible waste management and ethical wildlife encounters, we ensure that every aspect of our safaris upholds the highest environmental and ethical standards.

A portion of every guest’s safari directly supports vital initiatives, including wildlife protection, reforestation efforts, and community-driven projects—contributions that Ahnasa proudly matches. We also champion farm-to-table dining experiences that celebrate fresh, locally grown and sourced ingredients, further reducing our footprint while supporting local farmers and artisans.

For us, luxury and sustainability are not opposing ideals; they are seamlessly intertwined. Ahnasa offers transformative journeys that immerse guests in Africa’s beauty while ensuring their presence leaves a lasting, positive impact. When you travel with us, you are not just experiencing Africa—you are actively preserving its future.

What are some of the most unique or memorable bespoke safaris you have arranged?

Where do we even begin? Every journey we curate holds a special place in our hearts, each one an unforgettable story woven with wonder, adventure, and a touch of magic.

One particularly memorable safari is a month-long honeymoon we designed in Kenya and Rwanda, back when Ahnasa was still in its early days. We crafted an experience that blended immersive wildlife encounters with secluded moments of romance—sunrise game drives, private candlelit dinners in the wild, and the breathtaking intimacy of gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s misty mountains. It was a love story written by Africa itself, and our guests felt it deeply:

“Thank you, Ahnasa Destinations, for everything. It’s difficult not to cry happy tears when thinking about this journey—so grateful. I think my wife will agree that it’s been a life-changing trip!! Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

This is why we do what we do. We don’t just design safaris; we create experiences that touch the soul.

This year, we had the privilege of designing an exciting safari which took guests deep into Southern Tanzania, where they explored the wild, untamed beauty of Ruaha and Selous before retreating to an intimate private island—a sanctuary of barefoot luxury. Another unforgettable journey saw travellers trekking across the Great Rift Valley, from the emerald depths of Empakaai Crater to the remote, otherworldly shores of Lake Natron, where flamingos wade in endless pink swirls beneath towering volcanic peaks.
And truthfully? We could go on forever. Each safari is a labour of love, a chance to share the Africa we hold so dear. Every journey we curate is not just a trip—it’s a story waiting to be told, and we are honoured to be part of it.

Luxury travel is evolving, what trends are you seeing, and how is Ahnasa meeting these changes?

Luxury travel has evolved beyond opulence—it is now defined by exclusivity, authenticity, and experiences that leave an indelible mark on the soul. Today’s travellers seek more than just a journey; they long for immersive adventures, private escapes, and moments that forge profound connections with the world around them. At Ahnasa, this has been our passion from the very beginning.

We are a small, dedicated team of women, intentionally keeping our circle close so that every guest receives our full attention. For us, curating safaris isn’t about itineraries—it’s about crafting journeys that awaken the senses and spark a connection, whether with oneself, loved ones, or the extraordinary people of Africa. With a handpicked collection of the most exclusive destinations, properties, and experience makers, we don’t just recommend places—we explore them, ensuring that each safari is as authentic as it is extraordinary.

And now, we’re taking it even further! We are thrilled to soon introduce the Ahnasa App—a game-changer in personalized travel.

Do you have a personal favourite safari destination, and what makes it special to you?

KALPANA: While every destination has its magic, Northern Kenya holds a special place in my heart. It’s a land of raw, untouched, stunning beauty where time slows, and nature speaks in whispers. There’s something truly profound about the deep connection between the land, the people, and the wildlife here. Walking with the Samburu, listening to their ancient wisdom, and experiencing the vast wilderness without another soul in sight—it’s the kind of experience that changes you.

And if there’s one more experience I could share with you, it would be mountain gorilla trekking. Nothing prepares you for that moment when you lock eyes with a gorilla in the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park. It’s humbling, awe-inspiring, and so deeply moving that even now, my heart skips a beat just thinking about it. These are the moments that make travel unforgettable—the ones that stay with you long after you return home. And if you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Africa in this way, I can promise you, it’s even more incredible than you imagine.

PHERA: Oh, this is a tough one! It’s a toss-up between Ruaha National Park and Zambia (yes, I know—I just named an entire country!). For me, it’s all about the moments and connections I’ve experienced in these places. I celebrated my 30th birthday in Ruaha, and it was pure magic—from the fiery colours of the sunset to spotting my first leopard cubs! But what made it even more special was seeing my guide’s sheer excitement in finding them—it turned an unforgettable sighting into an emotional, shared experience.

And Zambia… where do I even begin? Zambia was my very first solo trip (which, by the way, I highly recommend to everyone!). That journey changed me, both personally and professionally. It was a chance to push my boundaries, meet incredible people, and dive into new adventures. That’s one of the things I love most about what I do—this job constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone and challenges me to try everything at least once. After all, how can I recommend an experience to our guests if I haven’t lived it myself?

What’s next for Ahnasa? Are there any exciting new projects or expansions on the horizon?

At Ahnasa, we are always evolving, driven by a deep passion for crafting the most extraordinary African journeys. Luxury travel, for us, is about connection, meaning, and the kind of moments that stay with you forever. That’s why we’re expanding into new destinations, curating private island retreats, and unveiling one-of-a-kind experiential safaris that redefine what it means to explore Africa. More than ever, we are deepening our commitment to conservation and community-driven initiatives, offering opportunities for guests to actively participate in wildlife protection and cultural preservation. Because true luxury is not just about experiencing beauty—it’s about making a lasting impact.

One of the most exciting news we want to share is the addition of Botswana to Ahnasa’s Destinations Portfolio! In April, Pana and I will embark on an incredible, exciting 12-day adventure through the breathtaking Okavango Delta, exploring its diverse landscapes, staying at six incredible properties, and immersing ourselves in the experiences that make this place so magical. First-hand knowledge is at the heart of what we do, and this journey will ensure that when we craft an itinerary, we do so with true expertise and passion.

And there’s more—our dream of a seamless, interactive, and deeply personalized safari experience is about to become a reality with the upcoming launch of the Ahnasa App—a game-changer in personalised travel! This has been a vision of ours from the very beginning, and seeing it come to life is beyond exciting. Our App will seamlessly elevate every guest’s experience, from the very first inquiry to the final golden sunset, ensuring that the journey doesn’t begin upon arrival—but from the instant you say yes to Africa!

The journey ahead is as thrilling as the wild landscapes we explore, and we can’t wait to share it with travellers who seek the extraordinary. If Africa is calling, trust us—it’s even more incredible than you imagine.

Company Contacts

Phera Jai (Co-Founder | Travel Designer)
E: Phera
T: +254 782 060 166 / +254 799 402 868
W: Ahnasa

Kalpana Jai (Co-Founder | Sales & Marketing)
E: Pana
T: +254 731 995 506

Sara Jamal (Travel Designer )
E: Sara
T: +1 724 984 7026

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How did your journey as a wildlife photographer begin, and what inspired you to focus on capturing the beauty of nature?

One of my very first memories from my childhood is sitting on the floor of my grandmother’s apartment in Gothenburg, Sweden flipping through a book with nature and wildlife photos from all over the world. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the name of the book but I do remember it had a light green fabric cover and for me, as a young boy, I remember it was very large and heavy. I was totally mesmerised by this book and I think somewhere there it all began.

On a more recent note, I started taking my photography seriously after a photographic safari to Kenya back in 2012. After that I gradually gave up my career in web- and graphic design and shifted towards photography. The experience on this safari was life-changing for me. I just knew that this was what I wanted to do. I have always been interested in both nature and art so it was the perfect combination for me.

Living in Malta is unusual for a wildlife photographer, how does the Mediterranean environment influence your work?

Yes, I agree with you. In a way, it is not ideal to live on a tiny island in the Mediterranean when you are a wildlife photographer. On the other hand, it is not for nothing this little tiny island has been occupied by various people and nations over the past centuries. It is like a hub, close to both mainland Europe and Africa which makes it location perfect for travelling. I don’t think that living in the Mediterranean has affected my actual photography in any significant way. I believe that my Scandinavian background has had more of an influence on my work. I like simplicity, timelessness and purity in my work and that, amongst other aspects, is what Scandinavian design, architecture etc is so well known for.

Your photos are known for their exclusivity. Can you share the process behind selecting and creating limited edition prints?

Once back in my studio after a photography-filled trip, it is time to select the best possible print from a huge number of photos. What people do not realise is that even after, for example, 2 weeks of intense shooting on location there might not be any prints that would be worthy of showing to the world. If I can come back with one strong image, I would consider the trip a successful one. So how do I choose such an image? A very good question. As an artist, I need to choose an image that I think is worthy, an image I can stand for and an image that represents Me and my work. This is not an easy task.

Today, we are bombarded with thousands of visual messages every day. We have Instagram, Facebook, billboards, Netflix, eZines, magazines etc. everywhere we go. I need to create images that somehow rise above all this ‘noise’ and make people stop for that extra second to take another look. I need to create images that form a connection with the viewer. We often talk about images that tell a ‘story’ and that is what it is all about. A “story” doesn’t always mean a traditional narrative like we might initially think. More often than not, what we mean is that the image evokes some kind of emotion or imagination in the viewer or perhaps spark some curiosity or memory.

This stopping power is what makes a photo strong and what makes it last. This is also different for different people. What sparks your interest is not necessarily what sparks the interest of the person next to you. There is no definite recipe on how to create images like this and that is partly what makes art what it is.

My goal is to make pictures that catch people’s attention and make them pause instead of mindlessly scrolling or walking by. I think those kinds of images are perfect for hanging on someone’s wall because they spark conversations and become real conversation starters.

Travel plays a significant role in your work. Which destination left the most impact on you, and how did it influence your photography?

Locations impact me differently – some on a more personal level rather than on a professional level. I will never forget my visit to Madagascar and how it changed me as a person. I often refer to my visit there when I talk to my children about how different living conditions are for children in different parts of the world. Although it is also a completely unique and incredible location for photography it is not what makes my blood flow.

Like many others, east Africa is where I feel I belong with my camera. When photographing iconic African mammals such as lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes etc., I feel at home. I don’t think it is a coincidence that Kenya is where I started this journey and also a location I prefer to return to over and over again.

In the age of digital photography, what challenges and advantages do you face as a creator of limited-edition prints?

I started this journey when photography was already 99% digital so I don’t really have any personal experiences with analogue photography. One thing that I know is very different though, is that with modern cameras a lot of the technical element of photography has vanished and the creative element of the process is allowed to take centre role. Every shot back then cost money and must have inhibited creativity. The fact that we now have instant feedback in the camera during a shoot is also something that I cannot imagine myself being without. I think without those two game changers, I would never have started photography professionally in the first place. In recent years the higher resolution cameras also help out a great deal when creating larger pieces for someone’s wall.

Can you highlight a memorable or challenging experience you’ve encountered while on a wildlife photography expedition?

Earlier this year I went on a 10-day safari to Kenya with the sole aim to photograph elephants. I had a number of images in mind that I was going for. One of them required special weather conditions plus one specific elephant that has some of the largest tusks in the world and at the same time is very friendly.

I decided to go in October because it is the time of year when I would have the biggest chance of ‘big skies’ with great clouds. For this specific shot I needed those clouds – but not too much. Let me explain. Basically, I wanted an image of this iconic elephant in front of Africa’s tallest mountain – the Kilimanjaro. A blue sky is my worst enemy but for this shot I needed a relatively clear sky to be able to see the mountain in the background I also wanted some clouds for some added interest in the sky. At the same time, I also needed the elephant on good behaviour in front of the mountain without any disturbing bushes or trees in the background. All this needed to happen in the soft light of the early morning and with his ears flapping. As I mentioned earlier there are a lot of things that have to come together at the same time to make a strong image.

Upon arriving on location, I immediately got in touch with my local contacts to keep me informed about the elephant’s whereabouts. Obviously, when we found the elephant in a good location, the mountain was hidden in thick clouds and when the mountain was visible in all its splendour, the elephant was nowhere to be seen. This game of hide and seek kept on for 10 days straight and in the end, unfortunately, I did not manage to get that particular shot. This type of outcome is more common than not, and the only thing you can do is try again another time. Wildlife photography in a nutshell…

How do you balance the artistic aspects of your photography with business?

I am of the simple opinion that whatever you do in life, you need to be able to stand for it. Same goes for my art. I would not produce any art just to be able to sell it. As a professional artist, I think the challenge is to find something that you are passionate about, you are proud of, represents you and that also sells. In my case this has not yet been a challenge. I tick all those boxes with my work.

In my experience, to sell limited edition prints of wildlife, you need to photograph iconic species. Not necessarily in Africa but icons of the area they inhabit. People are simply more willing to hang such images on the wall. For me that is also where my passion lies so that is not a problem for me personally. If my passion was for example reptiles instead it is my belief that I would a harder time selling prints for someone’s wall.

How do you approach a new project from its conception to the final print?

Creating a strong limited edition print that will stand the test of time is more work than most people realise. The number of times that I heard comments such as “You only press a button”, “Creating this photo only took a fraction of a second” or similar are countless. There are many steps in the process from thought to the creation of a fine art print actually hanging on a wall somewhere around the globe.

Before any actual photography takes place, I need to research what to photograph. Where? When? And how? Where is the best place to go to photograph elephants the way I want to photograph them? When is the best time to go? What is the weather like at that time? How shall I go about photographing the animal in question and do I need any help? If so, who can help me in the best way? Do I need any special permits? Etc. etc.

Once all these things are decided you need to execute the actual trip. Sometimes your research and planning pays off and more often than not, nature decides not to play along and you have to do it all again. Weather and wild animals are not something that any of us have control over. It can be frustrating at times but at the same time that is what it’s all about. If it was easy, everyone could do it.

As mentioned earlier, once back in the office there is a selection process on which image, or perhaps images, would be the best one to continue working with. Once again there are many questions that needs to be answered. Which image connects in the best way with the consumer of the image? What type of emotion does a specific image convey? Does that image stop the consumer on his or her track to take a second look? These, and many more questions need to be answered before committing to a fine art limited edition print.

It is estimated that 5 billion photos are created every day in today’s fast-paced world where visual impact is so important. With that knowledge, it is easy to comprehend that making an impact with a single photo is not the easiest of tasks. There are a lot of aspects that have to come together at the same time for an image to stand the test of time. Understandably, being at the mercy of the elements and wild animals that do not follow any scripts or instructions makes this task even harder. Failure is far more common than success but at the same time also a necessity for that success. A strong image can often take days, months or even years to come together as I envision it.

On my last visit to Africa which lasted 10 days with a full focus on photography, I consider myself lucky if I managed to create one strong image that will manage to stand the test of time. That is 1 image out of thousands. The other images would be unnecessary to show the world. We simply do not need to see them because we have seen them before. With the skill, experience and patience that I have gathered over the years, occasionally things all come together and I create that one image that really stands out. Those are the moments that make everything worth it.

Finally, you get to the actual printing process which is an art in itself. There are a variety of different media you can print on such as paper, metal, wood, canvas etc. My prints are only printed on museum-quality fine art paper manufactured for photographic prints. Most people see paper as just paper but there is a huge variety of papers that produce totally different results. The choice of paper has a profound effect on the final product.

Do you have a favourite animal to capture?

As I have mentioned before, I just love those iconic species. Lately, I have primarily focused on the iconic species of Africa and my absolute favourites are elephants, lions and gorillas. The mere presence of these creatures exudes an incredible aura that truly captivates me. I feel different when I am around them. Zebras, giraffes and others are also iconic and amazing to photograph but these three are definitely in a league of their own for me. One day, I would love to explore other areas and animals. The polar bear is one of those species which always fascinated me for various reasons. They are such majestic and powerful animals surviving mostly alone in the harsh arctic climate. They impress me.

W: Johan Siggesson
E: Johan
T: +356 99894772

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The post Luxuria Lifestyle Interviews Johan Siggesson, wildlife photographer appeared first on Luxury Safari Magazine.

Arnaud you must be an extremely busy man, we thank you for your valuable time and look forward to finding out all about you, the Zannier Hotel Group and precisely what makes you tick.