Hanoch Peri, PPSA
April 2025 - Family
Original
About the Image(s)
While spending last month in the Serengeti, I was initially hesitant to capture this scene, given the relatively common presence of cheetahs (and a little sad to think it might not always be possible). However, the natural composition proved too compelling to resist. The mother looking for dinner and her playful cubs positioned themselves perfectly at the one-third and two-thirds intersections of the frame, The natural composition dictating the shot. Technical details: 120mm, 1/125, f/10, ISO 200, focused close to achieve a blurred background. Post-processing, just Lightroom's 'Auto' settings with a reduction in vibrance and saturation to counter the software's tendency to overemphasize color.
4 comments posted
What a lovely composition, and accompanying story!
I wonder if desaturating the grass so that the cheetahs stand out more would add drama to the scene? Posted: 04/12/2025 16:37:17
I wonder if desaturating the grass so that the cheetahs stand out more would add drama to the scene? Posted: 04/12/2025 16:37:17
That sounds like a really good idea! I'll definitely try it. Thank you. Posted: 04/13/2025 17:21:28
Hi Hanoch, Before I read the explanation, I thought that all three cheetah were the same size. The two youngsters would make some great play pictures with a 400-500 mm lens. While I'm not a fan of 'butt shots' in nature, the animal on the right staring out at the vastness makes it seem even bigger. It's a visually pleasant moment. Karl Posted: 04/12/2025 21:27:06
Thanks! I got some shots with a longer lens too. Totally agree about the 'butt shot' thing! But for showing the mom looking for food while the kids played, and getting everyone in a nice rule-of-thirds layout, the wider lens just worked better Posted: 04/13/2025 17:29:54