The first two nights at Wildlife Camp, our camp was allocated right next to the ‘bunker.’

Everyone else called it the ‘The Hyde’ but it was more than a game of hide and seek for me. It turned into my artistic outdoor studio on two levels and double features. Models were numerous and not shy to show off either. Elephants in particular enjoyed a stopover here.

Because the bunker was closely built to the waterhole, some elephants passed by not even a meter away. Close enough to touch the sandpaper skin.

Everything about this shelter and surroundings was uniquely perfect for me and therefore my cameras.

Even Rick couldn’t resist a visit whilst no animals were at present. The top-down shot reveals the location and surroundings of these murky waters.

The forest around was surprisingly green which lures herbivores to an a-la-carte menu. The shape and the location of those Mopane Trees added adequately over dark waters.

One particular tree island was immensely popular with the elephants.

A hardy branch stuck out about a meter above the ground and was favored by the younger generation.

Blue skies shimmered through green leafy branches. What keeps this deep waterhole moist whilst all others have dried out, I don’t know.

I guess the two local hippos keep the waters and mud moving, gardening the greens on top. It is of Iifelyhood importance for this mother and her weened offspring to stay hydrated.

Hippos are extremely territorial. A grown bull wouldn’t accept anyone else in this small pond.

The dark mud is a perfect anti-pesticide for thick skins. The local warthog family thoroughly relished a daily slump.

Why these muddy waters are so popular by the animals, I am not sure. The slow-flowing Luangwa River isn’t far off and fresh running waters are preferred to quench an elephant’s thirst. My guess is that the minerals in the soil are much sought after, helping with digestion and good bacteria balance.

The view from the hide pointed in the eastern direction straight towards the rising sun. The mirroring early morning rays skimmed nicely over a still surface.

Elephant photos were dimmed by harsh light by the shady tree line.

The rush hour was usually around lunchtime during the hottest period of the day.

The relief of cooling mud is obvious to the naked eye.

Afternoons and evening time provided a different glare spectrum from the lowering sun.

The rays shone straight onto the animal model, striking shadows over and with their bodies.

Surrounding greens added a natural environment.

One young elephant had half of its trunk missing, possibly from a lion attack.

He had to bend down lower than others to scoop up refreshing waters.

But he was such happy chappy, unbelievable.

The bunker itself is a simple but effective construction. A two-story level was built within to please crowdy customers. More importantly, it gave me an upper and a lower angle to aim for.

This may only be a meter in height but from a photographic point of view, it created a world of difference.

Shooting upwards from the ground added a unique angle toward the creature comforts. It’s all about the angle, isn’t it?

Ears appear like roadmaps.

Family photos distinguish different sizes.

Head to toe.

Models near and far summed up an unusual scene.

Some of the photos taken are sheerly incredible.

The basement view also presented a straight line over groundwaters as the greens acted like a blurry frame around the wildlife.

Whilst the youngsters enjoyed a tasty meal.

Timing is another important factor as I spent a lot of time in the hide.

Sometimes I had to push hard to get to a result. Pinpoint timing transpired as it started to rain.

The bunker provided a roof over the head as a thunderstorm swept over the dry land on my last day.

The clouds acumulus heavily over the past few days and humidity was unbearable for many. I spent my days in the pool in between photo shoots.

Elephant senses are so sensitive that they can smell rain approaching.

The refreshing shower caused a chain reaction within the elephant community.

A huge sign of relief and pleasure was spread as cooling waters poured over their steaming bodies.

It doesn’t get better than this. Look at the joy and smiles on the elephant’s faces.

A mud fight was long overdue as juniors pushed one another into the mud.

A dirt bath par excellénce. Lekker, man.

I would have loved to join the playground and celebrate the cooling waters.

Without harsh sun rays, black and white photos turned out sharper and more detailed due to higher ISO.

Something I need to remember.

As I will ‘my time’ in the bunker.