Safari photography is a specialty of Jane Rix, a contributor to Shutterstock. Explore the captivating stories behind her wildlife photos in our collection. One of her notable subjects is Tim, a “super tusker” elephant. It’s estimated that there are only 25 of these majestic creatures left in the world. Tim, known for his gentle nature, was a beloved figure in Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Despite being speared three times by humans, he survived and lived for 50 years before passing away naturally in 2020.
Jane Rix, the photographer, had the privilege of seeing Tim in person during her trip to Amboseli National Park in 2019. Her motivation to travel and capture the beauty of such locations was driven by her battle with cancer, which she has since overcome. Knowing that elephants often move in the early morning and evening, she patiently waited for Tim to appear. Among the acacia trees, she managed to capture the incredible bond between Tim and herself, immortalizing his wisdom as a survivor.
Rix’s passion for safari photography began in 2016 when she visited Kruger National Park in South Africa. Since then, she has ventured into the ancient forests of Uganda in search of gorillas and experienced close encounters with walruses in Svalbard, Norway. Her trips are carefully planned with knowledgeable guides who prioritize conservation, providing the perfect opportunity for photographers to capture breathtaking moments.
One unforgettable experience for Rix was witnessing the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. The sight of millions of animals crossing the river, facing the danger of crocodiles, left her awe-inspired. She captured stunning photos of these river crossings, showcasing the intensity and scale of this natural phenomenon.
In Uganda, Rix had the privilege of spending an hour observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The controlled nature of the experience ensures minimal interference, preserving the forest and its inhabitants. She captured a striking image of a silverback mountain gorilla, a chance encounter on her last day in Uganda. Despite facing technical difficulties with her camera due to the humidity, she managed to capture a powerful shot that captures the direct connection she felt with the gorilla.
Svalbard, Norway provided Rix with the opportunity to witness the pristine wilderness and feel the immensity of nature. During one trip, she witnessed a young polar bear’s fascination with a pod of beluga whales. After patiently waiting, she captured the perfect moment when the bear took a leap of faith and dived into the water. Another memorable moment was observing a large male polar bear from a safe distance, capturing its relaxed and inquisitive nature.
Through her photography, Jane Rix has immortalized the extraordinary experiences she has had during her safari adventures. Her photos not only document the beauty of wildlife but also tell the unique stories behind each image.