Through the Lens Series: Capturing the Soul of Mashatu with Renowned Wildlife Photographers
Welcome to the “Through the Lens” series, where we invite you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Mashatu Game Reserve, seen through the eyes of seasoned wildlife photographers. This series celebrates the artistry of each photographer, capturing Mashatu’s unique spirit and inviting readers to discover the untamed beauty, iconic wildlife, and mesmerizing landscapes of this magical place. Each episode introduces a talented photographer who shares their personal journey, favourite captures from Mashatu, and the magic that keeps them coming back. It’s a heartfelt look at the wilderness, revealing how each season and landscape creates a different mood, inspiring awe and respect in the photographers who explore it. We invite you to sit back with a warm cup of tea or coffee, relax, and dive into this enchanting playlist on our YouTube channel offering a visual journey and masterclass in wildlife photography. Let these photographers take you on an inspiring exploration of Mashatu. Go Yamagata Born in Japan and raised in Togo and Burkina Faso, Go Kinoshita has been drawn back to Africa time and again to capture its wildlife. Now based in Tokyo, Go leads Japan tours for C4 Photo Safaris and has earned awards like second place at the AGFA Awards and the top prize in the Epson Worldwide Photo Contest. His images from Mashatu capture the essence of the wild with a keen eye for detail and soul. [WATCH] Kevin Dooley An award-winning wildlife and portrait photographer from New Mexico, Kevin began his career in his father’s studio at just 14. His deep passion for Africa has led him to guide safari adventures, where he combines his love for photography and wilderness with travellers. Kevin’s Mashatu images are vivid portrayals of the animals he deeply respects, creating an intimate experience for viewers. [WATCH] Villiers Steyn Villiers, from Pretoria, began his photography journey as his high school’s photographer. With a Master’s degree in Nature Conservation, his studies focused on leopard behaviour in Botswana’s Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Now a seasoned wildlife photographer and safari guide, Villiers shares his adventures and insights on his YouTube channel, The Safari Expert, where he offers practical tips and a unique perspective on wildlife photography. [WATCH] Roger & Pat de la Harpe With a shared passion for conservation and Africa’s wild landscapes, Roger and Pat are South African freelance photographers and writers with over 30 years of experience. They’ve published 28 coffee table books, including Mashatu: Land of the Giants, and manage Africa Imagery, an image bank capturing the people, wildlife, and natural beauty of Africa. Their work in Mashatu is a rich visual narrative of the area’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. [WATCH] Jos & Yvette van Bommel Renowned wildlife photographers known for their captivating images of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Safari enthusiasts with 20+ years of experience, they have a deep passion for conservation and sharing the beauty of the natural world through their stunning photography, exploring Africa three to four months a year. [WATCH] Greg du Toit Acclaimed African wildlife photographer, writer, and private safari guide, Greg du Toit is known for capturing Africa’s raw beauty in its truest form. His images reflect a deep respect for wildlife behaviour and natural landscapes, and his Mashatu photos are no exception. With three books to his name, he offers his guests unforgettable photography safaris, deeply rooted in Africa’s rhythms. [WATCH] Mike Dexter With a degree in photojournalism and a FGASA Level II guiding qualification, Cape Town-based Mike Dexter has over a decade of experience in Africa’s wildest areas. His images from Mashatu reveal moments that are both rare and precious, portraying the wild’s untamed beauty with respect and artistry. [WATCH] Ann and Steve Toon Based in the UK, Ann and Steve Toon have dedicated over 25 years to capturing Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. They spend half the year exploring African game parks, bringing a storytelling approach to their photography. Their work is recognized globally, with awards like the Bird Photographer of the Year and the European Wildlife Photographer of the Year. Their images from Mashatu showcase Africa’s diversity, vibrantly bringing its stories to life. [WATCH] Shem Compion Known for his innovative approach and deep knowledge of animal behaviour, Shem Compion is a celebrated African nature photographer, adventurer, and co-founder of C4 Photo Safaris. He pioneered Africa’s first underground hide at Mashatu, providing photographers with incredible close-up wildlife encounters. His images are a testament to his passion for the wild, capturing the energy and essence of the animals and landscapes that make Mashatu so extraordinary. [WATCH]
