adamkossowski images

ECELENI He looked to one side, catching a glimpse of one of his pride emerging from the bush. Eceleni means “aside” in IsiZulu. The hot, incessant heat of the African bush was beating down on everything beneath it. The pride had found itself on some open hill terrain with various small bush and acacia trees dotting the area. With the little shade on offer, they seemed to accept their rest in the heat of the hour and lay spread out between various grasses and mounds. An old termite hill nearby provided some sanctuary for the smaller cubs, while the females seemed content to position themselves half in and half out of the shaded areas. He was relaxed, but his awareness of his surroundings remained. They had eaten well a day or two before, and their pangs of hunger were all but forgotten at this time. His eyes lifted a little as he observed a nearby bush, where the rustle of its dry branches gave way to an emerging adolescent exploring the foliage around him. He remained ambivalent to the sudden call of a hornbill settling in a small tree further behind as he watched the youngster gently scrub at the earth, teasing an unfortunate passing tortoise. Playfully lifting it, he turned it over and over, eventually letting it go to continue its crawl away. The male gave a sudden yawn, and with the little resistance left, he slowly spread back, residing in his afternoon slumber. Fine Images Available: adamkossowskiphotos.com #lions #malelions #krugernationalpark #klaserieprivatenaturereserve #wildlife #photography #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski

IMIHLATI Lifting in a sudden turn, the large hippo eyes me, opening its jaws in a show of territorial defiance. Imihlati means “the jaws” in IsiZulu. The lake seemed peaceful—just the sounds of a fish eagle passing by and the occasional snort from the pod of hippos some distance away. Positioning myself at the shoreline, I inched forward, slowly dropping my focus closer to the water height. But I was wary; crocodiles were known to reside in the same place and could immerse themselves only a short distance away without being seen. It was a beautiful yet dangerous location, so all caution was being given. Settling in a spot, my eyes caught sight of a large single hippo descending beneath the surface. He was headed my way, but there was no trace of his whereabouts once out of sight. I remained still as the seconds went by, guessing where he might appear. But it was anybody's guess. A few moments later, everything changed. Suddenly, his massive head lifted above the surface, swishing himself in a single large sideways motion as he raised himself further. He was now closer to me, much closer, and his attention was clearly fixed on my presence. Cold waves of realisation pressed through me with urgency to make a retreat, but I remained motionless, my finger simply capturing the moments as they took place. He settled sideways, the churned white water disappearing. And just as quickly, he seemed calm and quiet, just his ear flicking every now and then while observing me. Satisfied that I presented no threat, he slowly turned a minute later, pushing his way back to his pod. #hippo #hippolove #hippopotamus #krugerpark #kwambili #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #rawafricacollection #earth #photography #wildlife #natureshot #sonyalpha

SHAYELA The lions roar resounds over his kingdom. Shayela means to “call” in IsiZulu. The night had arrived, and with it, a brief, fiery red dusk took its last bow. In close succession, came the sounds of the wilderness, occasionally muffled by a curtain of silence where the life of the day was introduced to the creatures of the night. A large Gijima male lion had settled on a small koppie in the savannah, a soft, restless breeze blowing in his direction in short, occasional gusts. With it wafted the distant smells and restless stories of nature all around. His attention was drawn in one direction, and his eyes locked on something in the distance. He watched patiently, sniffing for more. The breeze stopped, and a sudden calmness settled all around. The silence seemed to move the Gijima lion to take slow, deep panting breaths, followed by a series of deep grunts that eventually bellowed louder and louder into a roar. His vouce reverberated far and wide across his kingdom. He was the king of his land, and he was telling all those in it of his presence and place. NATURES RESOUNDING SYMPHONY: THE ROAR OF THE SAVANNA In the the African savanna, a lion's roar reigns supreme, serving as a cornerstone of their social behaviour and territorial assertion. Arguably the most iconic sound in the animal kingdom, a lion's roar can travel over several kilometers, creating a deafening and awe-inspiring experience for those lucky enough to hear it up close. This mighty vocalisation is among the loudest in the animal kingdom, with the male lion's roar standing out for its depth and volume. Roaring is a form of communication and assertion, with lions using their roars to warn rival prides to steer clear of their territory. Additionally, these resounding calls serve to showcase the lion's strength and size, acting as a beacon to let other lions know of their presence. #savetheplanet #lions #shayela #rawafrica #savannah #krugerpark #sabisands #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #waowafrica

MEGGSIE He stood there, waiting at the door for his master and friend. THE BOSTON TERRIER: A COMPANION FULL OF CHARACTER Boston Terriers are renowned for their love of companionship and thrive when close to their owners. Playful and sometimes a bit silly, this breed is often seen as the clown of the canine world. With their stable temperament and affectionate disposition, Boston terriers make excellent house dogs, although their profuse shedding means a good vacuum is a must! Despite their playful nature, these terriers are not high-energy dogs and are content to join their owners in any activity, whether it's watching a movie or going for a leisurely stroll. Intelligent but occasionally stubborn, boston terriers are loyal and affectionate companions, bringing joy and laughter to their owners' lives. #bostonterrier #bostonterrierlove #dogslife #doglover #focaltribe #bestfriendscollection #adamkossowski

Following up on yesterday’s post of St Mary’s RC Church Leyland (completed in 1964 and designed by Jerzy Faczynski for Weightman and Bullen), let’s zero-in on some of the details… The obvious place to start is the dalle de verre stained glass windows by Patrick Reyntiens (long term collaborator with John Piper who, for example, worked on the baptistery window at Coventry Cathedral). But everywhere you look in this incredible building, you see incredible detail - including statues by Liverpudlian sculptor Arthur Dooley, the ceramic cross above the alter by Adam Kossowski (who also made the frieze above the main entrance), and the carved mice scurrying along the sides of the raked pews. Do go… you won’t regret it… #leyland #stmarysleyland #jerzyfaczynski #weightmanandbullen #patrickreyntiens #adamkossowski #arthurdooley #modernism #modernist #modernistarchitecture

MACHO He began to hunt his father, his eyes locked on target. Macho means “eyes” in Swahili. How appropriate, I thought. The big male lion is being hunted by his younger son. It was all playful as the pride rested in the hot midday sun under some bush and surrounding shade from low-lying acacia trees. Hosi, the big male, had arrived, and after some greetings were done with the lionesses, he turned to play a little with one of the cubs. The playfulness was lighthearted, and eventually Hosi lay down to rest. It had been a long night of patrolling his territory, and he was back to check on the pride and recover. But the cub was not finished. As Hosi lay half-asleep, he clambered nearby onto a large fallen trunk that had been pushed over by an elephant some time ago, pretending to scratch and search for something. Once Hosi’s eyes averted to other surroundings, the cub noticed and turned, taking on a stalking position. His manoeuvre was one of a great hunter, and slowly, very slowly, he inched forward to his father. As he got within striking distance, Hosi turned, well aware of this little cub’s intention, and softly called. With that, the cub reached him and muzzled his face, gently pawing his father in acknowledgement. THE IMPORTANCE OF LION CUB PLAY Lion cubs, much like human children, spend a significant portion of their day engaged in play. While it may seem like mere fun and games, this playtime is serious business for these baby lions. Through their playful activities, which include stalking each other, playing hide and seek, and wrestling with one another, lion cubs are actually honing their hunting skills and developing the physical prowess they will need as adults. #lions #lioncub #MACHO #lionpride #klaserie #krugerpark #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #wildlife #photographyislife #ConservationEfforts

GEOFFREY CHAUCER FIRST READS THE CANTERBURY TALES OTD 1397 Canterbury Pilgrims on their way to the shrine of St Thomas Becket, gather at the Tabard Inn, Southwark, and agree to travel together and tell stories on their way. Some stories deal with chivalry, some with corruption, some are learned told by prioress and priest, some courtly told by knight and franklin, some are bawdy told by miller and widow. Chaucer presents, indeed performs, a tour de force for the court of Richard II. Probably at the summer palace, Bermondsey. Chaucer was courtier and diplomat as well as poet, in fact a well travelled pilgrim. His Pilgrims also appear on a large ceramic mural on the former Civic Centre, 600-608 Old Kent Road. The mural is listed and was created 1965 by Adam Kossowski, a Polish emigré artist. Arrested by the invading Russians in 1939, imprisoned in Soviet labour camp, he finally escapes to reach England 1942. The mural was created in his studio after his terrifying ordeal. And we remember that ‘Pilgrims Progress’, symbolic journey, was written in gaol by John Bunyan. ‘The Travels of Marco Polo’ were written by Rustichello da Pisa, Polo’s cellmate. Le Morte d’Arthur was written in prison by Sir Thomas Malory. Cervantes, riddled with debt and confined to a cell, wrote ‘Don Quixote’ a wild yarn of knightly adventure. Sir Walter Raleigh wrote ‘History of the World’  in the Tower of London. Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela wrote from jail. Mayflower Pilgrims, first held in the Clink, sailed to the New World and freedom in appalling conditions. Everyone has a book or a painting in them, if the prison sentence is long enough. ‘Stone walls doe not a prison make, Nor iron bars a cage …’. Richard Lovelace, cavalier, from prison.

TAKE THAT The hornbill swerves away, turning towards his calling mate, his wingbeats stretching towards the skyline. He had been sitting on the bare ground near the termite mound for a little while. His head turned occasionally, observing any movement nearby. The red-billed hornbill was a master of his craft, keeping dead still and then suddenly turning in another direction. His focus was intense as he spotted and grabbed at a passing bug, swiftly tossing it in the air and then gulping it down. His manoeuvres continued, but a cry in the distance broke his concentration briefly. His head askance, he listened carefully, hearing the call of his mate. The sound was louder this time; a growling, deep 'gok' or 'rroh' could be heard from some nearby thorn bush. He turned, facing the direction, and swiftly flapped skyward in the direction of his mate. Sony A1, FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL: 200mm, S: 1/4000s, A: F4.5, ISO: 800. #hornbillbird #redbilledhornbill #birdsonearth #birdsandbloomsmagazine #nationalgeographic #birdsofafrica #africanbirds #krugernationalpark #southafrica #featheredfriendscollection #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

VHANGANYETA The pup turns his teeth, flashing at the Alpha female, his mother, indicating his displeasure for her to join the feast. Vhanganyeta means to “grab” in Tsonga. It was all about the moment and the opportunity as night fell. For this wild dog pack, they were lucky; the antelope had mistakenly looped around, avoiding the chase of the lead hunters, but had run straight into the remaining pack that was resting in the encircled bush. She was dispatched immediately, and the pack, ravenous by now, had set up a watchful perimeter of adults who guarded the pups, allowing them to start their first serving of a vital meal in the bush. A minute or two later, the Alpha female - the pack leader - turned and made her way to join the pups at their meal. It was her prerogative to do so, as she was the only one who could provide for the growth of the wild dog population in this pack and thus secure the longevity of this very special group. But she was challenged by one of her own pups. Food was the elixir of their lives too, and the rules of the pack were to provide food for the youngest first. She could have easily torn the little pup away, but she understood the consequence and stood there for another minute or two before the pups opened up a space for her to eventually join. WILD DOG EXTINCTION LOOMS In South Africa, the population of these magnificent animals is alarmingly low, with fewer than 650 individuals remaining in the wild. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates that there are only about 6,600 mature African wild dogs left in the world, spread across 39 subpopulations. Their natural habitats are vast and sparsely populated, with the largest known range spanning 43,000 square kilometers and hosting only 800 individuals. This underscores the challenges these animals face in their struggle for survival and highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect them. #wilddog #wilddogconservation #rawafrica #wildlife #savewildlife #extinction #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #sabisands #krugernationalpark #southafrica #africanwilddogs #wilddogsofinstagram

PAMOJA The soft nuzzle and touch of the female lioness reassures the little cub of the pride’s togetherness. Pamoja means “together” in Swahili. She gently nuzzled one of her cubs as the pride lay together, savouring a long afternoon of rest. Family time was important, and the lioness had settled with her growing cubs on the edge of where the pride lay. One by one, and in turn, she licked her cubs lovingly, her display of affection unceasing as the sky continued to slowly turn amber, signalling another African dusk had arrived. They lay patiently, enjoying the bonding as she stared occasionally into the distance between her affections. Some of the pride members had begun to stir as the approaching coolness of night reminded them of the hunt to come. Nearby, another large female moved over and lay down, flicking her ear as if to swish some flies away. She entertained the rubbing affections of one of the cubs that had sauntered over to her, pressing his face into hers, chewing at her chin, and then collapsing onto its back, resigned to catch a little more sleep. But there was no more sleep. The sun was beginning to set, and the pride had begun to stir. The large females now began to awaken, yawn, and roll one by one, slowly raising themselves and rubbing or touching against some of their now more alert kin in anticipation of the hunt to come. With one last look at me, the cub turned, emulating his mother, stretching and then slowly ambling behind her as they returned to the rest of the members of his pride, eager to learn from the nights’ hunt to come. Sony A1, FE 7—200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL:159mm, S: 1/1000s, A: F7.1, ISO: 640. #lions #lioncubs #lioness #krugerpark #AfricanSafari #rawafrica #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

MURKY WATERS With her bait set, she viewed the murky, rough sea for her cast to follow. She stood there for a while. Her rod ready; the other already cast. The wind had changed, and now rougher weather was making its first appearance. Her eyes scanned for a good place to cast her bait. The shoals were in but were nowhere to be seen at the moment. I continued to watch, holding dearly onto my GoPro camera, focusing on the subject at hand. For a moment, time seemed to stand still, and I took the shot. Experimenting with some different perspectives in photography certainly can push one out of one’s comfort zone. Entering the sea on this rather freezing day was questionable for most, but for me, it was a fresh take on the subject I had been watching. The fishing folk had come out, trying their hand at the shoals of sardine and the larger predatory fish that typically followed them. So in this moment, the idea of capturing the cold, unrelenting sea, the subject of the hopefulness of a catch to be made, and the roughness of this scene were priorities in my mind. Perhaps it translates, perhaps it doesn't, but what I can conclude is that that day rewarded me with an interesting perspective. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #murkywater # #artistonfb #fishingtime #wildshore #fishingdaily #ocean #overberg #southafrica #focalvistas #adamkossowski #seaviews #adampiotrkossowski

PREEN A moment in time - too quick for the human eye - captures the opaque nictating membrane of the malachite kingfisher as she cleans her wing feathers. The warm winter sun of the late morning provided a break from the incessant clouds and rainfall. The kingfisher had come out, searching for her catch in the local vlei, or small lake. With tenacity and experience, it was not long before she had the opportunity and took a silvery minnow successfully. After the quick whack on the branch and flip of the little fish down her throat, she settled back and started to preen herself. For all birds, feathers are both protection and a means to live, so taking good care of them remains essential. For this malachite kingfisher, though, it was also an opportunity to take in some of the warm sun and enjoy a well-deserved break. But not for long. A minute or two later, something caught her attention once again. She turned, checking out a subtle movement not too far away at the edge of the reeds. Her head bobbed up and down to assess the possible prey, and without a sound or warning, she suddenly flitted off, dive bombing a passing fish for yet another catch of the day. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #kingfisher #kingfisherbird #malachitekingfisher #intaka #intakaisland #capetown #southafrica #preen #focaltime #featheredfriends #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

HUSH The leopard rose silently to turn, her focus on the hyena approaching below. She snarled a warning, letting the hyena that he had been seen. She lay stretched along the large, gnarly trunk observing as he continued to meander towards their tree below. The hyena quietly reached the surrounding bush, curiously searching for the source of an inviting smell of fresh meat from above. Ignoring her earlier warnings, the hyena kept sniffing the air, moving ever slowly closer to the base of the large tree trunk below her. Then he paused. A strong hush settled over the bush for a minute or two as the hyena and leopard faced each other off. Suddenly, the leopard uncoiled from her former lying position as she turned to face the hyena head-on, her body in position to leap. With a loud crackle of laughter, the hyena loped off to nearby cover, venturing to watch from a safer distance this time. And for good reason, as seconds later, a second leopard emerged - the adolescent cub had returned and joined his mother on the ground as she leapt onto the savannah grass in greeting. The night before, she had hunted well. They had caught a nyala and dragged the large catch to their tree - a safe place to store a meal from predators. With the cub now having eaten well, she had taken her guard for the night, alert to any movement nearby. She had remained here for many hours and only now sprang onto the ground, listless, to keep moving. They would return a couple more times to finish off the stored meat in the next day or two, but now they had the rare luxury of enjoying a period of time playing in the bush. #leopard #krugerpark #southafrica #sunrise #nature #thornybush #rawafrica #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

WINGED ATTACK (Prequel to WINGED CATCH) Captured in a frozen moment, a Red Bishop Weaver turns to attack a passing mayfly. During a sweltering midday, I took a break and headed out with my new telephoto lens in search of avian subjects. Positioned on the edge of an embankment overlooking a small swampy area, I scanned the reeds around me, eventually noticing a male Red Bishop Weaver perched about 60 feet (20 meters) away on a weathered old tree stump. He seemed deeply engrossed in observing the world around him, while other weavers fluttered about, attending to their nests or sipping from nearby pools of water. As I focused my lens, I marvelled at his proud plumage and the occasional movements of his head as he tracked passing activity. I anticipated his flight, positioning myself for the perfect shot, though time appeared to slow down. Despite the heat, I remained patient, hoping to capture a glimpse of his flight. As if heeding my silent wish, the Red Bishop Weaver suddenly took off, executing a swift turn as if reconsidering. In that fleeting moment, a small mayfly crossed his path, catching his attention. With astonishing speed, he snapped it up, but miraculously, the mayfly seemed to slip from his grasp, spiraling down into the reeds, perhaps seeking refuge. While I'll never know if he managed to retrieve his prey, this brief yet mesmerising encounter with nature was a well-deserved reward for patiently observing my subject. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #RedBishop #weaverbird #weavers #avian #AvianBeauty #birdlife #birding #birdinflight #focaltime #featheredfriends #featheredfriendscollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #birdsinstagram

Today is Maundy Thursday and the Triduum begins this evening with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, at which we remember the washing of the feet as a sign of service and the institution of the Eucharist to sustain us throughout our life. #communityofstgregorythegreat #community #communityofstgregory #benedictine #benedictines #benedictinemonks #monastic #monasticlife #monks #monastery #maundythursday #triduum #easter #holyweek #eucharist #washingofthefeet #jesus #ceramic #ceramicart #adamkossowski

The scene from today’s Gospel, as Mary anoints the feet of Jesus. In this way she prepares for the washing of feet on Maundy Thursday and for the women to go to to anoint his dead body on Easter Sunday morning, only to find the tomb empty. The necessary anointing has already been done in advance of his death. #communityofstgregorythegreat #community #communityofstgregory #abbeyofstgregorythegreat #benedictine #benedictines #benedictinemonks #abbey #monastic #monasticlife #monks #mary #ceramic #ceramicart #adamkossowski #holyweek

NTSONGO She stared back, her mother sniffing behind her ear reassuring her. Ntosongo means “young” in Tsonga. Approaching her, I noticed a hint of caution in her gaze. With each step forward, her demeanour became increasingly guarded. The young Nyala emitted a gentle snort, conveying uncertainty about my presence but finding reassurance in the proximity of her mother nearby. Her ear flicked back and forth, and her dark eyes remained locked on me. The mature female, ever vigilant, acknowledged her offspring's calls but maintained composure as I carefully moved closer. Encounters with Nyala, though not uncommon in the areas we traversed, were seldom straightforward. These creatures exhibited a skittish nature, initially appearing nonchalant but promptly distancing themselves when approached too closely. However, an opportunity to photograph them arose at our camp, where a female Nyala and her yearling frequented the surroundings, drawn by the abundance of broad-leaved plants and tender grass shoots – their main sources of grazing. During my days there, they gradually grew accustomed to my presence as I passed by them on my way to meet guides or partake in meals at the boma. These moments allowed me to observe them from increasingly close distances. On one of my last days in that location, I set up my camera equipment and, pretending to head to the usual spot, gradually approached them. Ensuring I remained concealed from their direct line of sight, I successfully closed the gap to just a few meters, capturing a series of photographs of the young Nyala. #NTSONGOI #buck #deer #deerbaby #foals #kwambili #krugerpark #krugernationalpark #Nyala #southafricanwildlife #africanwildlife #africanwildlifephotography #wildlifeconservation #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

ELEGANT FLIP An egret, known for its elegance, begins its ascent into the heavens. Nearby, a spoonbill searches for food, using its bill to sift through the water and vegetation. Despite belonging to different species, the egret and spoonbill exhibit similar feeding or symbiotic behaviours: the spoonbill searches through the lush vegetation of the nearby bank, while the egret follows and awaits close by. The spoonbill's foraging causes fish to move erratically away from the banks and their cover, leaving the egret with some opportunities to spear its prey. On this misty morning, both birds were working their way along one side of the river bank. With the river tide in full flow, the spoonbill had moved into slightly shallower waters in search of its edible favourites. As it turned its attention to one large clump of vegetation, a large shoal of skittish fish swarmed away from underneath into the middle of the channel, attracting the immediate attention of the egret on the nearside. In this moment, and with a large flip of its wings, it took off in an attempt to reach the shoal in the hope of spearing one. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #elegant #heron #egret #birdphoto #liesbeck #capetown #southafrica #birds #featheredfriends #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #planetbirds

15 ON BERG Low tide draws back from the colourful little bathing huts nestled on the edge of the sea. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Cape Town, South Africa, the iconic Muizenberg Beach Huts paint a vibrant picture that has captivated the hearts of travellers and locals alike. These kaleidoscopic huts, standing boldly against the backdrop of the ocean, are not just eye candy but also remind those who visit the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines this local community. As I strolled along the soft, white sands, the tale of these bathing boxes unfurled before me—a nostalgic nod to the "bathing machine" of the 1800s. These cart-like structures, once wheeled down to the water's edge, offered a veil of modesty for women as they changed into their chin-to-ankle attire for a genteel frolic in the shallows. It's a fascinating glimpse into the beach-going mores of a bygone era, now symbolised by the cheerful row of beach huts that line the shore. Now their colours set a defiant splash against the natural hues of sand and sea. However, they offer more than just a picturesque setting; they are a cornerstone of the community's identity. Here, families gather for picnics, novice surfers catch their first waves, and individuals from all walks of life find solace in the sun and sea. The allure of these huts transcends their aesthetic appeal, encapsulating the essence of Muizenberg—a place where history, culture, and the joy of seaside living merge into a vivid portrait of life by the ocean. The beach huts have become a beacon of community, history, and natural beauty—a place where the past is cherished, the present is celebrated, and the future is bright. They, in all their chromatic glory, are not just an emblem of Cape Town's tourism history but a vibrant chapter in the ongoing story of a community deeply connected to its coastal roots. #muizenburg #muizenberg #muizenbergbeach #muizenburgbeach #muizenberghuts #beachhuts #beachhutsofinstagram #capetownlife #capetowntravel #focalvistas #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #southafrica

VONAKALA The young leopard looks through the savannah grass in the dim light, his tongue flicking at the taste of a good meal. Vonakala means "light" in Tsonga. The younger male, eager to learn from his mother, watches intently as she expertly secures their kill high in the branches. His wide eyes, mirrors of curiosity and awe, follow her as she approaches the tree. This is more than just a meal; it's a masterclass in the art of survival. The savannah is a harsh teacher, but the lessons it imparts are invaluable. Today, the adolescent male learns about the importance of securing a kill away from the prying eyes and hungry mouths of scavengers. Hyenas, lions, and even other leopards would not hesitate to claim the prize for themselves. As the mother leopard begins the arduous task of hoisting the impala up the tree, her movements are precise. Each step, each grasp, is calculated to avoid any misstep that could result in the loss of their precious meal. This is the essence of being a leopard: the solitude, the responsibility, and the ingenuity required to thrive in such a competitive world. We were privileged witnesses to these intimate moments of wild life. The African savannah, with its endless expanses of grass and sky and the intricate web of life it sustains, is a stage for countless dramas like this one. Each day brings a new story of survival, of victories and defeats played out under the watchful gaze of the sun. The young male's education is not limited to the physical aspects of survival. Watching his mother, he learns about the determination and resilience needed to overcome the myriad challenges they face. These lessons will be crucial as he grows and eventually sets out on his own. The savannah does not forgive weakness, and every skill his mother imparts is a tool for his future independence. #leopards #leopardsofinstagram #bigcats #bigcatsofinstagram #bigcats #bigcatsforever #bigcatsofafrica #bigcatswildlife #bigcatsconservation #bigcatsofmasaimara #krugernational #krügernationalpark #krugernationalpark #krugernationalparksouthafrica #rawafricacollection #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

DIVINE A fresh morning sunrise reflects across the sky and sea as life awakens to a new day. The gentle morning breeze caressed the ocean, causing delicate ripples to dance under the soft glow of the rising sun. With hues of gold and pink painting the sky, a symphony of sea sounds accompanied the dawn of yet another beautiful day on our planet. Captured during one of my coastal adventures, this photograph encapsulates the stunning contrast between the shimmering golden sea, the painted sky, and the figures of a kayaker and a seabird. What draws me to this shot is not just its visual appeal but also the narrative it weaves. The intertwining of the seabird with the kayaker adds depth, turning the scene into a captivating story. To me, these moments where humanity intersects with the natural world offer a glimpse into our place amidst the vast beauty of our surroundings. It's a reminder of our scale against the backdrop of such magnificence. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #DIVINE #SEASCAPES #SEASCAPEPHOTOGRAPHY #MANKAYAKINSEA #KAYAKANDBIRDS #SEAPHOTOS #KAYAKERSATSEA #WILDSHORESCOLLECTION #WILDCOASTPHOTO #FOCALVISTAS #ADAMKOSSOWSKI #ADAMPIOTRKOSSOWSKI #ARNISTON #SEA #WAENHUISKRANS #SOUTHAFRICA #OverbergLiving

WINGED CATCH Captured in a frozen moment, a Red Bishop Weaver springs into action, seizing a passing mayfly. On a scorching mid-afternoon, I took a much-needed break, venturing out with my new telephoto lens in search of avian subjects. Perched on the edge of an embankment above a swamp-like area, I scanned the surrounding reeds, my gaze landing on a male Red Bishop Weaver perched about 60 feet (20 meters) away on a weathered old tree stump. With keen interest, he watched the world go by while other weavers flitted about, tending to their nests or quenching their thirst in the nearby pools of water. Focusing my lens, I marvelled at the intricate details of his plumage and the occasional turns of his head as he tracked the movement of passersby. Anticipating his flight, I positioned myself for the perfect shot, but time seemed to stand still. Despite the heat, I remained patient, hoping to capture at least a glimpse of his flight. As if hearing my silent plea, the Red Bishop Weaver suddenly launched into the air, executing a swift turn as if having second thoughts. It was in that fleeting moment that a small mayfly crossed his path, catching his attention. In the blink of an eye, he snapped it up with astonishing speed. Miraculously, the mayfly seemed to slip from his grasp, spiralling down into the reeds, perhaps seeking refuge. While I'll never know if he managed to retrieve his prey, this brief yet mesmerising moment with nature was a well-earned reward for patiently observing my subject long enough. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #WingedWonders #redbishop #weaverbird #birdsinflight #BirdsInMotion #birdsofprey #birdphotography #capetown #southafrica #animalplanet #featheredfriendscollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

MALEWAN KHONA The face of the battle-scared leopard stares back at me as he turns the corner. "Malewan" seems to be derived from a nearby location given that name. Originally a small town in Burma, the name has a ring to it of the Asian jungle, perhaps fitting for this king of the leopards in his area in Africa. Khona means “corner” in Tsonga. As the hues of the winter sun spilled over the landscape, our eyes noticed a sudden movement ahead. Emerging from the verge shadows on the track, Malewan made his entrance, a picture of both grace and power. His stride was measured, his face etched by a recent skirmish and worn proudly on his face. Male leopards, like Malewan, are solitary and territorial creatures known for their fierce defence of their realm. Our mission that morning was to locate Malewan, a task made challenging by the absence of recent sightings. With no updates from our radio, we relied solely on our guide's and tracker's expertise. The leopard had been absent for some weeks now, and no one had come across any sign of his whereabouts for quite a while. This was worrying, as this was his territory, which he fiercely protected. We were not expecting much success in finding him as we moved around that morning, so it was with some excitement when we heard he had been spotted. The cackle of short radio updates to our guide told us he was moving in our direction, so it was not long before we reached a place by the track where he was heading and waited quietly for his arrival. Minutes later, he appeared. As we watched him approach, his intense gaze fixed on us, it was a thrilling moment to be in the presence of such a magnificent animal. Clearly, he had been in a battle, his face marked with bites, yet, there was no hint of hostility in his demeanour. Passing us by with a casual glance, he continued on his way, a silent guardian that had returned to his realm. #leopards #leopardsafari #leopardsofinstagram #malewan #bigcats #bigcatsofinstagram #bigcatsforever #bigcatsanctuary #bigcatsofafrica #bigcatswildlife #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #wildlife #wildlifephotography #nature #love #wildlifeplanet

This amazing art work on the front of a closed workingmens 1970s institute, in Abertillery. By the Polish artist Adam Kossowski, who was a member of the Catholic guild of artists. Most of his work here was for the Catholic Church, which makes this piece of ceramic art very unusual. #outexploring #catholicartists #adamkossowski #abertillery #publicart #southwalesvalleys

BR115 STARY NIGHT The night sky sets the scene for BR115, which had finally come to rest at her place on the sea-weathered landing. The boat in blue had returned. Despite earlier stormy conditions, she had gone to sea, plowing through some treacherous seas to get to her destination and allow her crew to check their nets and cast their lines. Some hours later, she enjoyed calmer waters on her return. Turning to the mainland, the red flashing beacon called her to the place where she would land. Awaiting her return, the small tractor - its wheels lapped by the ocean - prepared to tow her onto the landing. She approached cautiously, settling over the tow grid and allowing herself to be pulled back onto shore to rest for the remainder of the day and early sunset dusky pinks. BOATS AHOY COLLECTION Welcome to the world and the wonder of our sea-faring vessels. We explore various boats and ships, from out to sea to on land, where they rest after carrying us to places to do our travel. With centuries of service, they have transported us to new worlds, helped us discover each other as well as unknown wonders, and helped create a history of mankind founded on this form of transport that continues to this day in so many forms. #boats #night #ships #fishingboat #boatphotography #boatsphoto #arniston #capetown #southafrica #astrophotography #shipnight #focalvistas #boatsahoy #boatsahoycollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

BR115 BR115 had finally come to rest at her place on the sea-weathered landing. The boat in blue had returned. Despite earlier stormy conditions, she had gone to sea, plowing through some treacherous seas to get to her destination and allow her crew to check their nets and cast their lines. Some hours later, she enjoyed calmer waters on her return. Turning to the mainland, the red flashing beacon called her to the place where she would land. Awaiting her return, the small tractor - its wheels lapped by the ocean - prepared to tow her onto the landing. She approached cautiously, settling over the tow grid and allowing herself to be pulled back onto shore to rest for the remainder of the day and early sunset dusky pinks. BOATS AHOY COLLECTION Welcome to the world and the wonder of our sea-faring vessels. We explore various boats and ships, from out to sea to on land, where they rest after carrying us to places to do our travel. With centuries of service, they have transported us to new worlds, helped us discover each other as well as unknown wonders, and helped create a history of mankind founded on this form of transport that continues to this day in so many forms. #boats #boatsdaily #boatsgonewild #boatsboatsboats #boatsofinstagram #fishingboat #fishingboats #fishingboats #fishingboatsdaily #fishingboatharbour #arniston #arnistonhotel #arnistonspahotel #boatsahoy #focalvistas #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

LEMUKISA A young impala looks up, alerted by my presence. Lemukisa means “caution” in Tsonga. We were moving quickly, following the fresh spoor of an adult rhino, when we came across a small herd of impala at a waterhole. Passing by this little group - busy quenching their thirst, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to try capture their unique bush beauty and cautious personalities. Their light-brown and almost coppery tones blend so well with the background, and provide a very good example (for me) of the importance of camouflage for much wildlife in the African bush. With a single bound, an impala can cover more than 10 meters in distance and soar 3 meters high, all while sprinting at speeds of 80 to 90 km/h, evading predators with ease. The females, affectionately known as ewes, navigate this landscape without horns, while the males, or rams, proudly sport magnificent, twisted horns that can grow up to 36 inches long, adding to their striking appearance. These majestic antelope are not just remarkable for their physical prowess; they are also versatile feeders. They gracefully browse on shrubs, graze on grass, and delight in acacia pods and fruits whenever they are in season. Despite their roaming nature, impalas seldom wander more than a few miles or kilometers from their beloved watering holes, ensuring they always have a vital resource nearby. Come early winter, the savannah comes alive with the sounds of rutting season. Young rams form spirited bachelor herds, while the strongest among them stake their claim, establishing solitary territories that they fiercely defend during this time. The females form close-knit breeding herds, ensuring the survival of their species. Perhaps the most captivating sight is witnessing an impala in flight. Startled by a potential threat, they showcase their renowned leaps over shrubs and bushes, a breathtaking display of their agility and survival instincts. #impala #impalalife #kruger #krugerpark #krugernationalpark #krugerthroughmyeyes #springbok #springbokke #antelope #buck #deer #wildlife #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski

WEAVER DIVE In a second, the weaver dives out of his nest and into the reeds below. I had been watching him for a while. He flipped nearby, seemingly always in search of another bit for his nest. This time he focused and chose fluffy pieces of flower or cotton-like stems, which would provide comfort inside the structure for his potential mate. He had not found one yet but was on the cusp of success as suddenly the call of a female weaver mate lured him swiftly out of his nest building and onto a reed below. He posed there, ascertaining the position she had taken. This was a key moment in extending an invitation. As he looped around, indicating the entrance to his abode, his voice shrilly called her to look. Success! She looked quizically at him, then at the structure. After a minute or two, she took on his offer, disappearing up and into the nest entrance to make her decision. I wonder at how much effort some species on our planet make regarding the finding of a mate and impressing her. It's so varied, but for the weaver, it's a construct, which is interesting as an approach. Her focus is less on his fluff and more on his abilities to secure the next generation of weavers. Skills here are key and the most important, not looks or noise, as they say. Perhaps she has a point in this case? FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #weaver #weavers #weaversofig #weaverbird #weaverbirds #weaverbirdnest #weaverbirdsnest #weaverbirdswraps #birdphoto #birdphotography #birdphotographer #birdphotographyworld #featheredfriends #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

HLELA On alert, a male African wild dog surveys the perimeter near a kill, his eyes connecting with mine briefly. Hlela means “survey” in Tsonga. It was early evening, and the hunt was on. With the adolescent pups gorging on a buck just caught, the adults circled the perimeter, protective of their offspring. His duty was to keep a careful lookout for danger, particularly lions and hyenas, which could arrive at any moment and pounce on their feast. He was a prime specimen of a highly endangered species, one that would only survive if they could safeguard their pack continuously. With other predators around, it was always risky business to hunt and den, and thats what kept them always on the move. He knew that, so any movement or any unusual presence needed to be checked. His eyes bore through me for a few seconds as he clearly displayed an awareness of us, but only for a few moments. We were not a danger, and he knew that. Once checked, he launched away, bounding off in the style of wild dogs to another border of bush atop a small hill to continue his vigilance there. SOME AFRICAN WILD DOG FACTS Wild dogs boast probably the most structured social order among carnivores, residing in packs governed by a dominant male and female. All pack members assume subordinate roles to the alpha pair. These creatures tend to avoid areas frequented by lions and hyenas. In Kruger National Park, an estimated 450–500 wild dogs remain, making sightings a matter of luck. They are capable of covering vast distances, up to 250 square kilometers, and may travel over 50 kilometers in a single day in search of food. #wilddog #wilddogs #wilddogconservation #kruger #krugerpark #krugersights #africa #southafrica #wildlifephoto #predators #africasafari #rareanimals #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

Here are more interior pics of my favourite #latemodernist building in London from 1967 - see my previous post. To the right of the sanctuary is a recess for the reserved sacrament with this superb ceramic mural by Adam Kossowski. He was born in Poland in 1905. From 1946 he devoted himself entirely to religious art. When Germany invaded Poland in September 1939 Kossowski went east where he was arrested by invading Russian troops two months later. Kossowski (1905 - 1986) was first imprisoned at Skole and then at Kharkov, both in present Ukraine. He got 5 years hard labour and finished up in part of the Gulag which was called Peczlaz near the Polar Sea. He arrived in England in 1943 and in 1944 he joined the Guild of Catholic Artists and Craftsmen. He produced the ceramics and mural in this late 1960s church interior. There are several beautiful fibreglass statues by Gordon Bedingfield too - as yet I can’t find out anything about him #adamkossowski #ceramics #ceramicart #ceramicmural #staloysius #modernistinterior #londoninteriors #churchinterior #stainedglass #1960sart #1960slondon #camden

HLONGORISA She made her first charge, protective of her calf, as we approached. Hlongorisa means to “charge” in Tsonga. Her warning was clear. Another step closer, and we would be in for a ton of anger. Watching carefully, she pawed the dusty earth from behind her curtain of bush. Her senses heightened by our stillness, she snorted, her large body turning in our direction directly. The cloud of dust wrapped around her large muscular frame as her head turned to one side, her eye trying to observe what she could sense but not see. The stand-off continued like this for a few minutes. Satisfied we were not approaching closer, she pawed the ground one more time - more as a sign of her territory and standing than a charge now, and slowly turned. With her calf now safely behind her, she moved to the left, still sensing in our direction, but her mission now was to move onward in a new direction and to a safer space. As one of the most endangered species still on earth, black rhinos are unpredictable. Of all the rhino species, they seem the least patient and willing to be observed, never mind photographed. Their behaviour has led to a lot of respect from guides and trackers, who seem both elated at finding one and highly nervous about their disposition. These beautiful creatures now live in only a handful of places in Africa. Even here in the wild, they are hunted for their horn and the prestige of their rarity. As their custodians, even the most ardent conservationists seem to carry mixed feelings about the real possibility of their survival in the next decade or two. Despite efforts to protect them at all costs, their numbers keep declining as more brazen hunters arrive to capture and kill them for their horns and rare value. Truly, it was one of the saddest moments of my life to see this female (and her calf), knowing this may well be one of the last sightings a few will have of these creatures in the wild. #Kruger #blackrhino #rhinos #rhinoceros #southafricatravel #savetherhino #rhinoconservation #focaltime #adamkossowski #krugerexplorer #adampiotrkossowski #bigfive #bigfivesafari #wildlifeplanet #visitsouthafrica #rhinosinstagram

MORNING TIDES A characterful fishing boat chugs into the deep sea waters at the start of its sunrise trip. Heading out to sea, the boat breaks through the phosphorescent layers at the surface, reaching its target: the richer fishing zone off the heads of a nearby jutting rock outcrop. Its small cages, designed for lobster (or crayfish), lie packed, ready for the drops to come. With their traps baited, the fishermen lay them in line at known locations to collect them on their return after fishing for larger pelagic fish species nearby. Its the tide of seasons, a daily affair - fishers and the sea, living and working in a world that is changing as challenges arise to confront them at every turn, from fish stocks and seafaring factory ships to local politics that abides its influence on permits and rights. Despite these pressures, the local fishermen know their craft and live for these moments as they have from the very beginning. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #fishingboats #fishermanlife #fishermen #falsebay #capepoint #southafrica #seasidelife #ships #seaboats #lobsterboat #smallboat #focalvistas #wildshores #wildshorescollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

HUMELELA The leopard savoured its fresh kill, a reward for its patient effort. Humelela means “occur” in Tsonga. He had failed a few times. The antelope were skittish, and he was just too far away. His hunt had taken a few days as his attempts to capture a meal continued to be thwarted by bad timing, the presence of other predators in the vicinity, and recently alert monkeys. Their screams at seeing him caused him to lose opportunity after opportunity with passing warthogs and antelope. He had not given up, though, and late in the day, as early evening settled in, a passing buck had come too close to his hide, giving him a moment to hunt without disruption. The hunt was victorious. He dragged his prize along through the long, rough savannah grass, searching for a big tree to store his catch safely. As he pressed along, his hunger became too much, and the need to nourish his body screamed for him to stop. Finding a break in the grass, he laid his meal down, carefully scrutinising all sides around him. The predators were around but had not picked up his scent yet, so all seemed safe at the moment. Gorging on his meal, his eyes concentrated ahead, while his iron paw gripped the remains tightly. It took only a few minutes to consume a large portion of the wildly delectable prize, which he had ravenously chewed off and swallowed. Those minutes were precious for him, as the approaching sound of a hyena was now audible. He had been spotted. Fastening his powerful jaws around the remaining bones, he dragged the remaining carcass towards the base of the large acacia tree close by. Only a minute or two remained before the hyenas would get there, but that was enough time for him to launch up the tree to the safety of the large branch fork, where he safely stored the fresh remains for later RAW AFRICA COLLECTION #wildlife #leopards #leopardsofinstagram #Kruger #krugerpark #krugerexplorer #krugernationalpark #leopardhunting #wildlifeaddicts #wildlifeplanet #wildlifephotography #WildlifePhotography #wildlifephotographer #wildlifeconservation #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

ELEGANT TURN (Series: 2 of 3) A majestic egret, its pristine form a picture of grace, ascends into the sky with the fluidity of a seasoned ballerina's pirouette. In an instant, the elegant bird takes flight, its landing barely registering before its keen eyes notice the subtle stirrings beneath the water's surface - a school of fish darting about in a choreographed dance of survival. Nature, paints this tableau with soft hues, infusing it with bustling life. The egret, a skilled hunter, often stalks its prey in the shallow waters. On the opposite bank, a spoonbill engages in its own pursuit, its distinctive bill sweeping through the water left to right, and reverse, through the foliage in search of sustenance. Though a different species, these two magnificent creatures share an unspoken camaraderie in their quest for food. The spoonbill's movements stir the small shoal of fish, leading them in a panicked dance, unwittingly towards the egret. Yet, as quickly as they change direction, they retreat to the river's banks, their location observed by the vigilant egret. Amidst this natural spectacle, my attention is drawn to a nearby kingfisher, its plumage captivating. Yet, it is the white egret that steals the spotlight with its graceful flight and purposeful movements. In this fleeting moment, a decision crystallises in my mind - I must capture this beauty with its landing and takeoff. Wildlife, like this elegant bird, often sets unpredictability. Yet, through some good timing and luck I catch glimpses into their lives, as I did on that memorable morning. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. #egret #egrets #feathered #featheredfriends #birds #birds_adored #birdsonearth #birdsphotography #focaltime #featheredfriendscollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #capetown #liesbeck #southafrica

DINNER @ 8 The cry of seagulls breaks over the shallow waters of the nearby fishing village. A peek of gold, mixed with the ripples of late summer afternoon, reflected across to the tiny hamlet fishing village of Arniston. With the early return of some of the fishing boats, the seagulls prepared for their habitual turns and shrieks, demanding attention from the catchers as they turned near the harbour slipways. Opposite and further away, the scene was brushed on a palate of coppery colour mixing beauty with the wild shores of the rough coast. The sea, with its waves rising and falling in patterns and circles, masqueraded the ebbs and flows of the ocean's rhythm on that late summery date. A lone seagull suddenly flew up to examine my presence in the sea. It turned as the light ripples pushed past, realising that dinner would have to be found further away - by the slipway where the fishermen threw the fishheads and bits at the cleaning stations. Its wings flapped slowly as it inched away into a speck on the horizon, leaving me in the solitude of the silent music of the waves rolling and the tides drawing. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #wilderness #overbergtourism #focalvistas #arniston #capetown #waenhuiskrans #wildshorescollection #adampiotrkossowski #seascape #adamkossowski #seagulls #seagullsinflight #seagullsofinstagram #seascape_captures #seascapephotography

THE BOUY A young swimmer stares at the infinite horizon, marking a distant bouy. He stood there for what seemed like an eternity. His gear ready, and his mind quiet. We were at the local fishing harbour, and the boats laden with fish had all returned. As a local, he knew the rhythm of the sea and the daily launch and return of the colourful boats. As the distant clouds rolled in, creating a distant thunder that hinted at a brewing drama in the sky, the boy's focus turned to his destination. Time seemed to slow as he inched forward, the water lapping at his knees. The vibrant harbour now stood in silence, the only movement being the gentle waves rolling in and onto the ground beneath him. With a final deep breath, the boy took the plunge into the cool embrace of the sea. The splash echoed through the empty harbour, breaking the stillness that had settled over the water. His journey commenced, with the swimmer skilfully navigating through the rolling waves toward a distant buoy that bobbed in the fading sunlight. In that moment, the photographer in me sought to capture the essence of this simple yet profound scene. The composition aimed to balance the elements of earth and sky, capturing a neutral tone with character. The frame froze the harbor's emptiness, save for the lone swimmer, offering a snapshot of the serenity found when the earth almost touches the sky. The result was a photograph that encapsulated the magic of a local fishing harbor at dusk, stripped of its usual hustle and bustle. In a world emptied of people, the boy's solitary swim became a celebration of the uncomplicated joy found in embracing the sea. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. #arniston #waenhuiskrans #capetown #OverbergLiving #overbergtourism #Southafrica #thebouy #focalvistas #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #wildshorescollection #wilderness #seascape

OVER & OUT A Greater Flamingo flips over a pair of resting Pied Avocets during take-off. The occasional chatter of bird calls, orchestrated with the rolling sea in the background, set the scene for this misty morning by the lagoon. Birds were congregating while shoals of juvenile fish made their way in small groups through the estuary channels into the deeper part of the body of water. Upwards and into the riverine system, they continued to swim in unison, picking off the bottom and searching for their feed. On the far outer banks, a group of Greater Flamingos had gathered, their beaks swishing side to side as they filtered the rich water, trapping shrimp and other small water creatures for their meals. Amongst the busy flock, a small group of flamingos separated and waded across to an emerging sand island, nearly submerged by the high tide. With honks, they lifted their heads, searching for new opportunities, and followed the trail of the sand cove until they came upon a deeper part of the estuary ahead. After a brief pause to assess their surroundings, the leading flamingo grunted loudly once again, signalling a collective decision. The group then turned and walked back along the sandbar to shallower water before taking off one by one, each following the other, until eventually the last one had left. Their flight path arched back to the main flock in the distance until they landed seamlessly, rejoining them to continue their feeding routine. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends. #flamingo #flamingoes #birdlife #milnerton #milnertonlagoon #capetown #capetownetc #lovecapetown #southafricatravel #focaltime #featheredfriends #featheredfriendscollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

WEXE The black rhino calf turned quietly, its glance one of distrust. Wexe means “alone” in Tsonga. The cackle of the message was that a sighting of the highly endangered black rhino had been made. Suddenly, the radio transmission stopped, leaving a momentary silence around us. Our guide nodded, his eyes scanning ahead, his hand lifted for us to proceed. We climbed up the small hill that lay between us and the rhino, thorns and heavy bush grass everywhere, making progress slow. The heat of the sun pounded down relentlessly, creating patterns of shade and light that on the one hand oppressed us, and on the other guided us to the top of a small koppie, or hill. They were present, but hidden deep in the dense bush. Moving down cautiously, we reached an open fringe stopping behind the guide. His eyes were locked on a clump of thorny thickets, scrutinising the vegetation. Suddenly, his fist went up, signaling he had spotted something. With us close by, we saw them. Their deliberate snorts, followed by an occasional kick of dust, indicated they had also become aware of our presence. We remained stock still as I took up a position to aim my camera lens, zooming in as close as I could. I was lucky. For a moment - just a moment - the calf appeared alongside her mother between two clumps of low-lying thorn trees. Her head turned towards me, almost as if she could see me staring back. She kept still, listening to any sound I might make. We seemed frozen in time together - only the whir of my camera captured precious moments with this most rarified of creatures, the Black Rhino. #rhino #blackrhino #wildliferescue #rhinopoaching #poaching #krugerpark #southafrica #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #rhinotrust #savetheplanet #savetherhino

SWITSONGO The Dwarf Mongoose: A Curious Observer in the Twilight Wilderness. Switsongo means “little” in Tsonga. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the African savannah, we decided to make our way slowly back to camp. Along our path, we came across a colony of dwarf mongooses. Nestled within a disused termite hill, these creatures had established their home, and our presence stirred the curiosity of one particularly bold individual. Like many of its kind, this mongoose displayed a fearless demeanour. Its small frame, filled with curiosity and a hint of courage, did not shy away from our presence. With a brief, unwavering gaze, it observed us intently, as if deciphering the nature of our intrusion. The mongoose, while miniature in stature, seemed undeterred by the size disparity, maintaining a vigilant watch over our every move. We found ourselves torn between the captivating encounter and the necessity to return to our camp. The last remnants of sunlight cast a warm glow on the terrain, urging us to press forward. As we moved close past the mound, the fearless dwarf mongoose continued to observe, its tiny head turning with an almost fascinated interest in our movements. The unique behaviour of this individual dwarf mongoose became even more apparent as it suddenly bounced across the expansive termite mound, seeking different vantage points to observe us passing through. Its actions hinted at a level of intelligence and adaptability, traits that have allowed these creatures to thrive in the challenging African landscape. Our departure moments later from the vicinity of its home marked the end of this unexpected encounter. But as I turned to take one last look, I could see the mongoose's tiny silhouette lingered against the darkening landscape. For me, it was a symbol of the resilient wildlife that persists in the face of changing environments in our world today. #mongoose #dwarfmongoose #helogaleparvula #krugernationalpark #wildlifephotography #southafricaza #krugerpark #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

HAHA He turned, as the buzzing fly settled on his back, his black doey eyes glancing in my direction. Haha is a Xitsonga word meaning "fly" in English - fly in the ointment, minor irritation, or setback. Traversing the bushy slopes of the west side near our camp, it was not easy to spot the inhabitants of this unique piece of paradise. The African bush can be moody, showing its best at times and then hiding at will. Though fairly abundant, some of its smaller members can be almost impossible to see, especially those that can be well camouflaged. So it was a pleasant surprise, as we weaved through some of the more thorny bush, to come across this young, maturing steenbok nibbling at some of the foliage in front of it. Having spotted only the tiniest movement, we quietly pressed closer to see this lovely little creature in its full setting. As we stopped, still a fair distance away, it turned suddenly, attempting to snap at a passing fly that kept landing on its back. Instantly, it became aware of our presence. Seemingly unbothered, though, it took a few more bites of the foliage in front, using subtle shivers to fend off the unwelcome guest. With little success in removing the cause of its distraction and our presence now given away, it made a few more attempts to chase the fly off, gave us one last look, and suddenly scampered off into some of the denser bush on the fringes further away. Steenbok are one of the smallest bucks around, often described as being abundant, yet not very often nor easily seen (or approached). So discovering this beauty was a real pleasure for me. Watching the antelope with the gentle ambient light and the summery scene around us impressed me with a scene of tranquility and beauty, even though the subject for me was a buzzing fly vs. the buck’s presence. Perhaps the fly gave me the opportunity to spend a few more precious seconds capturing this little character before departing the scene. I will never know. #steenbok #Steinbock #antelope #deer #krugerpark #krugerwildlife #southafricasafari #southafricatravel #ballule #africa #safari #focaltime #rawafricacollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

ADAM KOSSOWSKI (1905-86), one of the great overlooked geniuses of the British mid-century. Overlooked, I think, because he mainly did murals, mainly for Catholic churches and institutions. Although his masterpiece is secular and on permanent public display: the great ceramic mural on Old Kent Road, to my mind the supreme piece of public art in all of South London. On Monday my friend Ed and I went to St Benet's Chapel at Queen Mary’s University, out in Mile End, to see another Kossowski masterpiece: his Apocalypse of St John (1964). A circular chapel beneath a high dome, St Benet’s is a very gentle and welcoming space. We had the place to ourselves. The mural covers the entire wall. Executed in sgraffito, a rare technique in this country. Light-grey plaster, on which the artist incised and scraped designs while it was still wet, revealing the rough black wall behind it. In places the plaster still bears the lighter incisions showing where he did not follow his initial sketch. He uses the technique to astonishingly various effect. We weren’t sure what tools he used. I need to go back and look more minutely. Something raw and sculptural about it, despite the fact each incision is only a few millimetres thick. It was a truly transcendental experience, to be able to lay a hand on the cool plaster, trace the marks — get a feeling for how they were made, the force and speed in the flick of the wrist. Stylistically, the mural is an exuberant, invigorating fusion of everything from Byzantine iconography, to Romanesque church painting, early C20th Avant Garde, and 1990s Nickelodeon. Simultaneously playful and sincere. But woven into a harmonious and integral whole by Kossowski’s unmistakeable and unequivocal style — the faces in particular are instantly recognisable. St. Peter, it seems, is a self-portrait. Big shout out to @edgrayart and @qmulchaplaincy Many thanks to Rev. Ella Sharples. #mural #sgraffito #adamkossowski #stbenet #artist #mileend #publicart #installation #midcentury #sitespecific #kossowski #polishartist

WHOOP The hyena cub submits squealing with excitement as her mother returns from a long hunt. All day, they patiently waited. While she and some pack members went hunting, one adult hyena stayed behind to guard the den. Not far off, a pride of lions, their most formidable adversaries, approached. Yet, the den remained well-hidden, and the guardian stood ready to divert the lions if they ventured too close. The pride settled at a distance, their occasional roars echoing across the savannah. Having feasted the night before, they sought shade from the relentless African sun, unaware or indifferent to the scent of hyenas nearby. The guardian, sensing their presence, cautiously warned the cubs to stay low. Earlier, we had positioned ourselves on the side of the earthy mound housing the den. Eventually, curiosity had lured one cub out, who cautiously observed us as we remained still watching back. The adult hyena closely monitored our presence regularly, occasionally sniffing in our direction. Satisfied over time that we posed no threat, he moved forward, positioning himself between us and the den, and laid down. The curious cub followed hesitantly, drawn to a scent nearby, but a few seconds later stopped and looked in one direction, ears pricked. Suddenly, the guardian's head shot up, alert to a distant sound he recognised. Instantly, he stood up, and the cub, excited, moved forward. A joyous squeal and cackle erupted as the matriarch broke through the bush and arrived. They met a few paces away, engaging in a frenetic dance of reunion. With more squeals and laughs, the cub collapsed under the matriarch, awaiting attention. Satisfied with the greeting from the male guardian, she proceeded to acknowledge her sibling with great enthusiasm. #hyena #hyenas #hyenasofinstagram #hyenacub #hyenalove #spottedhyena #crocutacrocuta #spottedhyenas #spottedhyenasofinstagram #wildlifeplanet #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #rawafricacollection #krugerpark

BIRDS EYE Nearly imperceptible amid the tall grasses, a Korhaan briefly locks eyes with me before continuing its journey. The Savannah teems with vitality, often brimming with unexpected moments. During a brief pause in our journey out one morning, I took a moment to adjust my camera lens and test the desired focal length for a swift capture. We had stumbled upon the tracks of elusive black rhinos, concealed within the thorny bushes nearby. While the guide and tracker halted on the path, scrutinising the trail ahead and observing the hoof-like imprints of our sought-after subject, my focus remained fixed on the adjacent grasses, fine-tuning the lens for its optimal range. Suddenly, my attention was drawn to a swift glimpse of a head, its movements erratic—appearing and vanishing in a continuous rhythm. Refocusing on a spot where I anticipated the bird's trajectory, I patiently waited. I could hear the subdued voices of the tracker and guide as they returned from their brief scouting venture along the trail, tinged with excitement. The black rhino lay just beyond a small hill, concealed by dense thorny bushes. They were deliberating the best approach to secure a prime vantage point for us to observe this incredibly rare creature. As their conversation ceased, a small head bobbed up in the grass precisely where my lens was directed. It was a korhaan, one of the charming peculiarities of the bush. Though not typically sought after by those in search of the big five, for me, they embody a quirky and genuinely fascinating aspect of the wilderness. My finger pressed the shutter button swiftly, and in the nick of time, the korhaan's head dipped, vanishing once again into the expansive savannah grassland. #korhaan #birdseye #kruger #krugerpark #krugerbirds #safari #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #birds #redcreastedkorhaan #photooftheday #birdsofinstagram #wildlife #birdphotography #naturephotography #wildlifephotography #photography #birdwatching #birdlovers #animals #birding

CITY DREAMS She stood staring, her fingers playing with her braids in a thoughtful moment, as the sunset touched the city. It was a late drive homeward. The gentle, infused hues of another tardy summer sunset beckoned me to change my course along a path renowned for its panoramic views of the city. Rounding the corner, the city appeared before me, radiant lights beginning to twinkle and spar with the descending sun. The nearly yellow-orange rays painted the sky with a spectrum of colours as I sat, observing for a brief time. Up ahead, another vehicle came to a halt, and a vivacious young girl leaped out from the back, her laughter filling the air as she sprinted towards the sign overseeing the panorama. She paused, caught by the beauty of the moment, her hands idly toying with her braids. As the city's tones reflected all around her, her silhouette seemed to stake a claim on the space as her thoughts flickered and the city lights emerged. What aspirations, dreams, and wishes would accompany her in the years to come? What occupied her mind in that moment as the world momentarily halted in its dreamlike state? LIVING CITIES COLLECTION Welcome to who we are, what we do, and those who live around and with us. As social creatures, humans have always lived in tribes, building communities based on shared values and beliefs. Within these tribes, humans have created homes and cities, both as a place of shelter and as a reflection of their identity. Humans also have an innate desire to explore the world beyond their immediate surroundings, and our curiosity extends beyond physical exploration as we seek out new experiences and live life in our own domestic spaces. Whether at home or on the move, we are constantly driven to survive, create, or discover the meaning of living. #capetown #capetownlife #capetownvibes #capetowntravel #capetownetc #travellife #sunsetmagic #sunsetviews #urbanjungle #urbanscape #silhouette #focaltribe #livingcities #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

DUSKY REELS Setting their catch, two fishermen amble away at the cusp of a winter's dusk. While on travel, I was thinking of finding landscapes with natural human subjects. I find many landscapes tend to have people poised, often looking back out at the view on display. It's not bad, and it works. However, my ambition was to find an opportunity to capture people naturally, in the distance, within a vibrant landscape setting. In this case, as the sun flared its last rays on the horizon and the setting of a shoreline reflected its golden hues (magic hour! ), I chanced to see these two fishermen placing their rods for an early evening of fishing. For me, it completed the scene of a sunset, sea, and people all combined into a common theme. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #arniston #capetown #seascape #seascapes #seascapelovers #seascape_lovers #seascapephotography #shore #shorebreak #shorefishing #shores #focalvistas #wildshorecollection #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

SEAL WRECK As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows across the ocean floor, the diminishing light worked its magic on a sunken ship, turning it into a haunting skeletal silhouette of its former self. This eerie transformation unfolded beneath the surface, where the remains of the vessel lay dormant, embraced by the underwater world. Amidst the wreckage, a curious seal ventured stealthily, navigating through the flat expanse of the sunken wreck with a sense of intrigue. Every nook and cranny became the subject of its investigation, mirroring the dance of a small shoal of fish seeking refuge within its’ iron confines. The seal's movements, like a graceful choreography, followed the contours of the ship, turning and tumbling through the skeletal remains. As the last rays of sunlight fractured and dispersed beneath the waves, a pervasive quietness settled over the scene. The occasional gentle lapping of the waves against the broken aft served as a subtle reminder of the bygone era when this vessel teemed with life and purpose, manned by individuals who undertook the task of fishing. Now, the relentless march of time had surrendered the ship to the depths, and the sea had reclaimed it all—only memories lingered, like elusive fragments of a fading melody. In this submerged realm, where echoes of the past reverberated through rusting metal, the seal continued its exploration, undeterred by the ghosts of maritime history. It was a creature in search of sustenance, weaving through the skeletal structure with a determined focus. As the underwater world embraced the ship's transformation into an aquatic mausoleum, the seal pressed on, a reminder of the ceaseless cycle of life and nature's reclamation of the remnants left behind by humankind. #seals #sealspotting #sealsanctuary #sealsofinstagram #shipwreck #shipwrecks #shipwreckdiving #shipwreckexploration #shipwreck #Shipwrecks #focalvistas #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

RIRIMI It was early evening in Africa, and the young African leopard was on the hunt. Ririmi means “tongue” in Tsonga. In the glow of the early evening, his cautious gaze met mine. Pupils enlarged in the dim light, he surveyed the surroundings … and me. The air carried the weight of expectation for him as he embarked on a hunt. The prey's silence in the bush led him to this spot, a terrain thick with thorny trees and tall grass—a good location for his scouting mission. Here, in the heart of the African bush, his skills were honed in the initial stage of his life. Survival for a young leopard depended on mastering the art of hunting and although opportunities presented themselves, success required more than luck. It demanded a skilful predator. Assured by the absence of an immediate threat, he flicked his pink tongue, savouring with some anticipation what lay ahead. With a decisive turn, he resumed his journey, stealthily navigating through the terrain with a grace born of instinct and necessity. The soft cadence of his form echoed with the soft rustle of grass and an occasional snap of a twig beneath his agile paws. Each movement was deliberate, finely tuned by nature's education. The hunt was not just a physical act; it was a mental engagement with the world around him. THE LEOPARD HUNT The leopard employs two main hunting techniques: ambushing or stalking its prey, with the aim of getting as close as possible. Once in proximity, it executes a swift and explosive charge, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h, ultimately pouncing on the target and delivering a lethal bite to the neck. In the grasslands of the savannah, the leopard predominantly preys on medium-sized ungulates (or antelope), although it displays versatility in its diet by consuming various other animals. In mountainous regions, leopards often target rock hyrax, a guinea pig-like creature, and occasionally feed on porcupines. RAW AFRICA COLLECTION Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life giving. #leopards #krugernationalpark #ririmi #wildlifephotography #nationalgeographic #focaltime #rawafrica #natgeoyourshot #adamkossowski

STEP UP A flamingo gracefully traverses the lagoon with a pit-pat sound, about to take off. The crisp, wispy air dances alongside a rolling mist at the lagoon's edge, while gulls explore the muddy banks in search of tidbits. Their calls resonate across the water, adding to the bustling atmosphere of marine life here in the lagoon. Earlier, a group of flamingos arrived, selecting a shallow water pool as their feeding ground for algae and shrimp - a favourite meal. However, as the high tide encroached, the embankments deepened, prompting the flamingos to relocate. In a harmonious sequence, the flamingos aligned, preparing for flight to a different locale. Stepping into the water, they gradually accelerated, wings outstretched, creating the illusion of a dance on the water. Their rhythmic steps, reminiscent of pitter-pattering feet taking giant strides, continued until they achieved the momentum needed to ascend into full flight. The allure of flight has long captivated me. The perspective from above, revealing a broader view beyond our usual ground-level perception, draws me to nature's aviators - birds. My interest in photography stems from capturing the unique perspectives that few witness from the ground. Photographing from above provides a distinctive joy, offering opportunities to document life forms, especially the wonders of nature, in a captivating manner. Observing the flamingo gracefully move, leaving its imprints behind as it flapped its wings, allowed me to escape the daily noise and challenges of life. In those moments, I found a sense of balance and a connection with the present, reminding me of the importance of being in the moment. Capturing this and similar images that morning was a truly meaningful experience for me. FEATHERED FRIENDS COLLECTION Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch. #flamingo #flamingos #flamingolove #pinkflamingos #flamingosofinstagram #birdlife #birdwatching #birds_captures #birdphotography #birdsofinstagram #milnerton #milnertonlagoon #capetown #southafrica #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #featheredfriends

ARNISTON ON MAIN A pinkish dusk settles over the small fishing village of Arniston as the call of gulls fills its empty streets. Arniston is a small, historical, and perhaps charming seaside village in South Africa. There are, though, two sides to this place: a modern yet rustic, well-to-do side, and a traditional yet struggling fishermen's village. I took this portrait shot of the main street leading into the fishing village as dusk appeared. For me, it represents the tale of two cities. The century-old cottage homes and quaint homesteads that tie the community together speak strongly of decades of living and seem to harbor a tremendous sense of history. Yet the scene also evokes an unspoken daily struggle to earn a living and reflects the difficulty so many find in living with basic comforts. I found the setting of quiet isolation reverberated its subtle yet spartan beauty somehow. WILD SHORES COLLECTION Welcome to our wild shores, where the two worlds of turning ocean tides meet and dance with rocky, tumbling coasts and serene sandy shorelines. This is our place to taste the salty air that brings so much oxygen to our joy. We explore the ever-present energy of the sea as it welcomes those who ride its tumbling waves, push through placid moments, and absorb its vast expanse. The sea, an ocean of the infinite, provides Mother Nature's oceanic forces to live in and find ourselves. We delight in its beauty, fly with its waves, and move through its tidal zones to find our moment of infinity. #arniston #waenhuiskrans #artistoninsta #landscapephotos #streetstyle #capetown #southafrica #focalvistas #wildshores #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

MISS LUNA She gazed back with a regal air, embodying the wisdom of a cat well beyond her years. Quietly observing me, much like cats tend to do, Luna lounged on the ledge above the outside wall, as I passed by the deserted house. Noticing her look I decided to see if I could capture her in some way as she continued to gently purrrr. With some precision, I positioned my camera at an appropriate distance, contemplating the composition and framing. However, her brief gaze held a subtle surprise that momentarily caught me off guard. I shifted my focus to her eyes, deliberating whether to approach closer. Ultimately, I opted to preserve the authenticity of her contemplative expression. So, gently pressing the shutter, I captured this shot of her slightly quizzical moment as our eyes locked for a short moment. BEST FRIENDS COLLECTION Embrace the warm presence of our cherished companions, whose boundless love, unwavering loyalty, and unrestrained joy enrich our lives. Pets, irrespective of their size or species, emerge as some of the most devoted and affectionate companions we can welcome into our hearts. Whether it's the steadfast loyalty of horses and dogs, the endearing affection of cats with their nuzzles and purrs, or the unique expressions of love from smaller creatures like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets—these furry friends seamlessly integrate into our families. Their distinctive personalities and quirks infuse our lives with joy and happiness, creating lasting connections. In their own special ways, these beloved animals offer us unconditional love and affection, often surpassing expectations to demonstrate their deep devotion, a sentiment we joyously celebrate here. #cats #catsrule #catsofig #catsagram #catstagram #catsoffacebook #catsofinstagram #blackcats #blackcatclub #blackcatlove #blackcatsarelucky #focaltribe #bestfriends #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

MAALUM An opaque pink sunset sets the scene on the African plain as a newborn baby white rhino calf stands by his mom quietly watching. Maalum means "special" in Swahili. In the heart of the African bush, under the watchful gaze of a four-week-old calf and his mother, the symphony of nature's distant cries painted a mesmerising backdrop. Two solitary rhinos, among the planet's most endangered beings, stood in an ethereal silence, occasionally pierced by the haunting calls of passing eagles. The calf, ever-curious, turned to us, a novel presence in its world, prompting a hesitant gallop, only to halt midway, its innocence yet to grasp the threat we posed. His mother, in her own ponderous way, approached the calf, gently coaxing him to follow. They pivoted, and the gentle murmur of the light breeze seemed to nod in harmony with their cautious steps, leading them back into the protective embrace of the deeper bush, fading from view. Scenes like this etch themselves into one's memory. It was a stroke of fate that led us to this mother and calf, hidden away from the well-trodden paths. Even our seasoned guide had not encountered this particular pair before. What made it all the more remarkable was that this mother still possessed her horn, a rarity in today's world. Horned rhinos, once commonplace, have dwindled due to the relentless poaching driven by the demand for their keratin in Asian markets. To protect them from extinction, most rhinos are now dehorned, their precious appendages rendered useless for concoctions long debunked by science. This poignant scene painted a stark picture of the foreboding future awaiting these magnificent creatures, once part of a robust and resilient population. #WhiteRhino #rhinos #rhinoceros #wildlife #wildlifeplanet #wildlifeonearth #wildlifephotography #wildlifephoto #wildlifelovers #wildlifeaddicts #wildlifeplanet #wildlifeconservation #Ceratotheriumsimumsimum #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

YURI'S SELFIE He just stared back at me, Yuri’s Schnauzer eyes glinting with hope. I was just swinging my lens around testing the focus at various lengths. My foot felt something suddenly touching it and I looked down. His eyes seemed to be telling me something important. It was dinner time, and I had clean forgot. His expression though caught me so I slowly slipped the lens back as far as I could, just enough to get his eyes in focus. The. I pressed this capture. SCHNAUZER - THE BREED Originating in Germany during the mid-to-late 19th century, the Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog belonging to the Schnauzer type. It is believed that these dogs may have been developed by selectively breeding the smallest individuals of the Standard Schnauzer or through crosses with smaller breeds like the Affenpinscher, Miniature Pinscher, and Poodles. Farmers aimed to create an efficient ratting dog that was compact in size. Known for their "spunky" yet aloof nature, Miniature Schnauzers exhibit excellent guarding instincts without the inclination to bite, a characteristic often found in other guard dog breeds. BEST FRIENDS COLLECTION Embrace the warm presence of our cherished companions, whose boundless love, unwavering loyalty, and unrestrained joy enrich our lives. Pets, irrespective of their size or species, emerge as some of the most devoted and affectionate companions we can welcome into our hearts. Whether it's the steadfast loyalty of horses and dogs, the endearing affection of cats with their nuzzles and purrs, or the unique expressions of love from smaller creatures like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets—these furry friends seamlessly integrate into our families. Their distinctive personalities and quirks infuse our lives with joy and happiness, creating lasting connections. #dogs #dogslife #dogsofinsta #dogsofinstagram #dogsofig #dogscorner #dogsarefamily #dogsofinstaworld #schnauzer #schnauzer #schnauzerlife #schnauzerlove #schnauzerworld #schnauzer_lovers #schnauzer_lovers #schnauzer_planet #focaltribe #bestfriends #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski

NYALA The mature Nyala bull stepped slowly from the dewey morning bush, staring fixedly back. Nyala is the Tsonga name given to this species of antelope. This was a male buck in his prime. His silent silhouette contrasted against the misty, cool conditions of another early morning in the African bush. Turning the corner, we had not noticed anything, our eyes still firmly following the tracks of the leopard on the dusty road ahead. It was a small movement, but the tracker immediately noticed it to the far right on a small hill next to us as we passed. His hand shot up, and we stopped - dead still, looking in the same direction. A brief sway of his horn tips gave the Nyala’s location away. As he slowly moved out from behind the thorny covering. He observed us but continued with a few steps along the side path. Reaching the stump of a small, broken tree, he paused, his mouth chewing slowly but his gaze now fully towards us. Standing stock, his eyes flinched momentarily as a passing fish eagle flew over above, marking its territory with a loud penetrating “wheeee-ah-kleeuw-kleeuw-kluuu” call. With the passing bird now gone, his focus once more reverted back to us. Satisfied with our lack of movement, his mouth resumed chewing on the freshly picked foliage and after giving us one last look, he silently turned to move on. We watched, impressed by his form, as he disappeared into the nearby bush, eventually melting back into his eden. RAW AFRICA COLLECTION Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, the life giving. This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. #balulegamereserve #balulenaturereserve #balulenisafarilodge #krugernational #krügernationalpark #krugernationalpark #krugernationalparksouthafrica #Nyala #nyala #nyalaantelope #antelope #buck #buckphotography #focaltime #adamkossowski #adampiotrkossowski #wildlifephotogrpahy