DANIEL CROUS
I am from Botswana, one of Africa’s prime safari destinations and home to some of the largest intact wild areas on Earth. My parents raised me whilst managing safari camps in the early 90's. My love of photography was influenced then, by my dad, as I remember him using his images to create postcards for extra income. I was surrounded by him taking photographs and given his old kit to practise on.
When my old man gave me his Konica Minolta film camera at the age of 11, I proceeded to cost him a fortune in film. I truly believe in the ability of a photographer to capture something instantaneous, something impossible to describe or even see with the naked eye. This is what I aim to portray in my photographs, the telling of a long and detailed story of evolution in just one burst of colour, focus and light. There are many such stories to be told in Africa, however, without the perfect combination of technicality, anticipation and understanding, many of them will be lost.
Growing up in the wilderness, its inhabitants and the way in which they work becomes an intrinsic part of you. I remember the first photograph I took that I was really proud of. I was in Selinda area with some friends when I was back from school and I managed to capture a stunning image of a Leopard. Back at school I used to go out with friends to areas I didn’t know and photograph anything I could just to practise. Mostly I enjoy capturing wild game and the interaction between species. Capturing that moment in time that will never be repeated.
As I grew older, I gained greater understanding of the threats posed to the wilderness, and my life became increasingly centred around conservation and protection of these last wild areas. For me, using my camera is a big part of that.
I am here to do two things through my photography work; take the wilderness to the world in the form of my images and any inspiration it brings, and of course, bring the world to the wilderness. I can do this by leading people in life changing experiences when I take them on photographic safaris. Through this, I feel I can contribute to the value of Africa's wilderness and its ultimate protection.
I am here to do two things through my photography work; take the wilderness to the world in the form of my images and any inspiration it brings, and of course, bring the world to the wilderness.
