Linkwasha Camp, set in the picturesque south-eastern corner of Hwange National Park, is the background for top guide Eustace Matavire’s photos. A year of “experimenting” and continuous training with Olympus has allowed Eustace the opportunity to capture a range of powerful wildlife shots.
A drier than usual season has brought remarkable sightings to this area, including phenomenal predator activity. As we patiently wait for the summer rains to arrive, followed by the beloved green season, we are thrilled to share Eustace’s Olympus-inspired images.
Large herds of buffalo and other general game can be seen making their way through dry grass to a waterhole to quench their thirst
The pans attract many animals, big and small, in search of much-needed water and nutrients
Being at the top of the food chain allows the resident pride free reign over the waterholes
The dulled tones of the winter grass afford excellent camouflage for leopards
The long, dry grasses are also good coverage for prey, especially those that make up the diet of these feathered friends (Pearl-spotted owlet)
A rare sighting, and a favourite amongst guides, snakes are always a treat in the wilderness. This Anchieta's cobra is poised and ready to strike in the blink of an eye.
Lions are territorial animals and can be seen leaving their scent mark on trees and surrounding vegitation
Hyaena are opportunistic by nature and will always try their luck when there is "free food" to be found. Pictured here: a lioness chases a spotted hyaena from her fallen quarry.
Birding is a game of patience. There is nothing quite as heart-racing as waiting for a bird to take flight and getting a classic "take-off" shot. Pictured here: Dickinson's kestrel
Sunset photos are always tricky to capture but there are those rare moments when the fading light offers the perfect silhouette
Magnificent hues are every photographer's goal to capture as the sun sets and animals bask in the setting rays
Hwange's elephants: There is something so serene about seeing this majestic creature completely at ease in the wilderness
Sunrise is another great time for photographers, allowing for evocative captures such as this impala in the mist
On the lookout for his next meal while wandering the open floodplains - this particular shot was taken from the camp's sunken hide in the early hours of the morning
The Endangered wild dog is very opportunistic and never one to shy away from a challenge, even if it is an elephant who may trample him
Termite mounds ... the best vantage point for any big cat on the prowl
No matter the time of day, the noble lioness is always on high alert
On a game drive, the “perfect” shot has as much to do with the right vehicle positioning as waiting for the ideal moment. Our guides will always look for an appropriate angle to position their vehicles in relation to the sun.
Even while feeding, the lioness is fully aware of her surroundings and will do everything necessary to protect her kill from unwanted scavengers
Even in camp, you are never far from the action. Here, in an amazing sighting, a cheetah is seen chasing a grey duiker right outside the staff rooms at Davison's. A reminder to always have your camera nearby!
All images taken with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II.
Written by Tenneil Zondagh
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