Capturing the winning photo for Africa Geographic’s Photographer of the Year 2023 was no mean feat for Remya Warrier. Her photo of a rain-soaked lion shaking its head to a backlit halo of water droplets created an otherworldly effect. Remya met the challenges of rapid movement and early morning light with skill, and her post-production edits created a dramatic yet moody image worthy of our award. “It’s all about learning to dance in the rain,” said Remya.
Remya is a passionate wildlife photographer, naturalist and conservationist from Kerala, India. Her childhood love of wildlife has taken her to various biodiversity hotspots around the world. In 2021, Remya moved to Maasai Mara, Kenya, to pursue her passion for wildlife photography and conservation initiatives.
In this gallery, we share a few of Remya’s favourite images. You can see more of Remya’s work on Instagram here.
“I am truly honoured to be awarded the Africa Geographic Photographer of the Year 2023. Thanks a lot to Africa Geographic for this recognition. I’m happy to be part of this great initiative for conservation and raising awareness,” says Remya.
Below, be mesmerised by Remya’s unique pursuit of capturing wildlife.
Queen Kaboso on the lookout for prey. “The harsh light of the afternoon snuck through the foliage, creating complementary glowing hotspots within the frame.” Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Nikon D850 | 400mm | F/6.3 | 1/640 sec | ISO 400Dust storm. Taken amidst the harsh droughts in Amboseli. Amboseli National Park, Kenya. Nikon D4 | 290mm | F/8 | 1/1000 sec | ISO 400Cheetah silhouette at sunrise. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Nikon D850 | 340mm | F/11 | 1/3,200 sec | ISO 125“This was one of the first images I took in Mashatu during my visit with Africa Geographic for the Photographer of the Year winner’s trip. Mashatu always holds a special place in my heart.” Mashatu Game Reserve, Botswana. Nikon Z6ii | 270mm | F/5.6 | 1/100sec | ISO 400Photographer of the Year 2023 winning image: Soaked after an afternoon shower. “The rains in Mara open doors for some very unique and magical frames.” Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Nikon D850 | 340mm | F/6.3 | 1/3,200 sec | ISO 1,250Hyena silhouette. “I have no words to describe how dramatic Mara sunrise and sunsets can be.” Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Nikon D850 | 350mm | F/8 | 1/8,000 sec | ISO 200Portrait of lion. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Nikon D850 | 400mm | F/7.1 | 1/4000 sec | ISO 800Black panther – that rare jewel of Africa. “It was a highly rewarding experience watching the hunting ability of this black panther – especially with its extra gift of nocturnal camouflage.” Laikipia, Kenya. Nikon Z6ii | 160mm | F/5.6 | 1/250 sec | ISO 16,000Rhino – a frame from Solio Ranch Conservancy, Kenya. Nikon D4 | 135mm | F/7.1 | 1/800 sec | ISO 200“Upon arrival we could hear the hooting and screaming of chimpanzees. There was a conflict between two groups. It was truly an experience to see how this group intimidated the intruders.” Kibale National Park, Uganda. Nikon Z6ii | 85mm | F/5.6 | 1/250 sec | ISO 10,000A sunset silhouette from Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana. “The desert habitat facilitates extraordinary sunset opportunities, especially as animals visit the waterholes just before dusk.” Nikon Z6ii | 80mm | F/6.3 | 1/40 sec | ISO 5000
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