First many thanks to Egidio for this challenge Lens-Artists #341 – It’s a Wild Life
I was totally lost at first with this theme, feeling like I had nothing wild or exciting in my photo archive to contribute. It was a bit disheartening to think that at first. However, after seeing several impressive posts from those who have already joined the community, I found that I actually do have some unique photos that capture wildlife that are meaningful to me.
Here are some animals that I have been able to capture with my camera over the years. Observing a koala in its natural habitat was truly a joy to see, as they seem to embody the essence of Australia with their gentle demeanor and tree-hugging ways. A penguin waddling through its natural habitat was something I never thought I would witness, as it brought a sense of whimsy and curiosity. Kangaroos, for us Australian visitors, are undoubtedly a treat, hopping gracefully across the landscape and reminding us of the unique wildlife Australia has to offer. Watching monkeys nurturing and feeding their young was heartwarming during my travels in Thailand, where their familial bonds were on vivid display. Encountering a giant grizzled squirrel in Sri Lanka was a new acquaintance, and seeing it scurrying through the lush greenery was also a memorable moment that stands out in my mind. Additionally, capturing a glimpse of an alligator in the Everglades of Florida with her baby was an experience I hadn’t anticipated, amplifying the thrill of wildlife encounters. Lastly, lizards, with their vibrant colors and quick movements, are always a delightful treat to observe, adding a splash of life to the environments I explore.
I found out I had seen more wild animals than I thought, and reflecting on those experiences brought a wave of nostalgia. I always tend to overshare, so I will stop here for now. Thanks, Egídio, for this challenge; it really had me thinking about the concept of ‘wild’ in more than one context. Even if I ended up remembering some of my encounters with the animals in their natural habitats, it made me appreciate the beauty and unpredictability of the wilderness. I could have chosen flowers, birds, or bugs, but instead, I focused on the captivating interactions I’ve had with these creatures, each unique and memorable in its own way.
Please remember to link to Egidio’s beautiful post and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you. I was happy to see that most all of us had a hard time choosing our images last week in Tina’s challenge! Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Ann-Christine leads us once again on her always-wonderful Leya post. Until then keep on smiling ☺
Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 