Face-to-face with a 500-pound tiger, sitting on a camera case, I felt the tiger’s breath on my skin—his name was Exodus. This Bengal tiger’s piercing yellow-gold eyes examined me, making me both terrified and transfixed. The art-making process for capturing tigers with Profoto lights proved to be unpredictable, yet the overwhelming majesty of Exodus lingered in my mind.
Tigers with Profoto Lights: Aerial inspiration and the beginning of a new project
The roots of this project trace back to an unexpected flight in a U-2 spy plane at the edge of space. From over 70,000 feet above, I viewed the Earth in all its vast fragility. This perspective spurred a desire to protect the planet’s inhabitants. It was a reflection felt when I aimed to connect with my late German Shepherd, Riley, and a commitment to helping living animals emerged.
Planning an unconventional project with advertising expertise
I explored ideas with my friend Mike, aiming to approach an animal project with the precision of an advertising photographer. Sharks were initially considered, but the logistical complexity shelved the idea. During a travel period, “The Tiger on Audible” captivated me. This story unraveled the intelligence and power of Siberian tigers, deepening my understanding beyond zoo images.
A partnership with Out of Africa Wildlife Park
After newfound inspiration, I reached out to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary near Flagstaff. Known for its respectful care of animals, the sanctuary offered refuge to those needing privacy and protection. The park’s commitment to animal welfare resonated deeply with me, especially when working with tigers with Profoto lights.
Initial encounters and composing the series
Within hours of reaching out, I heard from Brittney, inviting me to visit. Preparedness was crucial. Two days later, I found myself at the park’s entrance, meeting a tiger. This encounter redefined my project vision. The opportunity was extraordinary and not as dramatic as imagined, but it was indelible. My mind often returned to that first image during the complex preparation phase of photographing tigers with Profoto lights.
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The actual photography was split into six-day sessions spread over weeks, giving the animals as normal a schedule as possible. Despite familiarity with the process, each day brought new anticipation and curiosity, reinforcing the gravity of working closely with such powerful creatures.
Initially photographing a mountain lion, we tested the setup—a modified chain-link fence—ensuring safety. Traditional wildlife photography involves distance, but this project demanded intimacy and proximity. Remarkably, the animals often approached closely, occasionally fogging my camera lens with their breath, as we captured the tigers with Profoto lights.
Trust was built cautiously. Before shooting, I’d spend time interacting with the tigers, allowing them to grow accustomed to my presence. With countless animals at Out of Africa coming from traumatic pasts, patience was key. Our aim was never to sensationalize aggression but to portray the serenity and strength inherent in these magnificent creatures.
Using Profoto studio lights, we emphasized the tigers’ rich orange fur against the lush green backdrop. The lighting created a nocturnal effect, capturing the cats’ natural dignity. We strove to depict them fully, not as symbols of violence but as majestic and dignified beings. This approach countered common misconceptions that have endangered tiger populations. Working with tigers with Profoto lights allowed a nuanced portrayal.
Connecting people with the untamed world
For those far removed from tiger habitats, caring can seem abstract. However, sanctuaries like Out of Africa offer intimate experiences, enabling a greater understanding of what these animals endure. While zoos introduce children to wildlife, sanctuaries provide a profound connection to the animals’ stories and spirits.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary, whose trust and support were integral to this project. Their dedication to wildlife welfare is unparalleled and profoundly appreciated, especially in facilitating the work with tigers with Profoto lights.
Sources & Links
Source: petapixel.com
Frequently asked questions
How did the tiger project originate?
The project originated from an unexpected flight in a U-2 spy plane at the edge of space, which spurred the desire to protect the planet’s inhabitants. This experience, combined with the storytelling of ‘The Tiger on Audible,’ deepened the understanding of tigers and inspired the project.
What was the initial setting for the photography sessions?
The actual photography was split into six-day sessions spread over weeks at the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. The setup included a modified chain-link fence ensuring safety, and preparations aimed to maintain as normal a schedule as possible for the animals.
How did the photographer build trust with the tigers?
Trust was built cautiously by spending time interacting with the tigers before shooting, allowing them to grow accustomed to the photographer’s presence. The aim was to avoid sensationalizing aggression and to portray the serenity and strength of the tigers.