The Greatest Wildlife Photographer – Kenya competition has returned with its April 2025 selections, spotlighting striking images of Kenya’s biodiversity while raising funds for conservation organisations.
Proceeds from the initiative support key conservation partners including the Elephant Queen Trust, Ewaso Lions, Grevy’s Zebra Trust, Kenya Bird of Prey Trust, Mara Elephant Project and the Pangolin Project.
The competition continues monthly, offering a platform for amateur and professional photographers to contribute to wildlife protection through visual storytelling.
Here are the finalists for April 2025:
“A proposal accepted, not in rings or words but in instinct and offering.”
“I was able to capture this image as six lions stood at attention. Soon after, they began streaming off the hillside to follow in the hunt.”
“The low shooting point and rough breathing of these African giants create a unique and almost mystical effect. I decided to use only a strip of backlight. Dust, reflection, elephant contours, skin texture, light on the head and tusks of the second elephant make this photo.”
“I originally had a full-body shot but chose to crop the image to highlight her head and chest, the most compelling part of her pose. To me, this photo captures the untamed spirit of Africa and the extraordinary, rare wildlife one can encounter on safari.”
“I wanted to capture the very moment a ray of sun was lighting just the face of a cub, demonstrating its vulnerability in the bush. In order to make it to adulthood, the cubs have to rely on adults and camouflage to protect them. This image is their story.”
“We were a safe distance away but his strength, as shown in the wake from the waves he was making, was a stark reminder of just how powerful he is. It was a definite reminder, they may look docile but they’re far from it. It was an experience that I will never forget and I hope I am able to convey a sense of power in this photograph.”
“I waited, patient and focused, trusting the rhythm of the wild to offer the movement back to me. I hope this image stirs a sense of joy and wonder.”
“Flying at high altitude in a privately chartered helicopter, I searched extensively for interesting patterns and textures in the landscape. The bonus was photographing flamingos over the patterns of the soda lakes. This image was one of my favourites from the series and represents a striking combination of these magnificent birds and their natural environment.”
“For a long while, the big cat remained still, silhouetted against the ever-changing hues of the sky, which transformed into a canvas of fiery oranges, soft pinks and deep purples. As the landscape quieted, the leopard finally rose, scanning its surroundings with a keen, calculated gaze in search of potential prey.”
“It was agonising. My arm was aching. The camera felt like it weighed 20kg. At least 10 more minutes went by, then suddenly in one movement, Olepolos stood up, looked to the sky and shook his mane, sending a huge shower of water all around him. It lasted less than two seconds and it was over.”
